What Has Changed for the Subclass 600 ADS Stream?

From 29 September 2026, the Australian Government updated the approved travel agent list for the Approved Destination Status (ADS) stream of the Subclass 600 Visitor visa.

The change was made through LIN 26/060 following the annual audit and recruitment process for ADS travel agents in China.

The updated list:

• removes agents that were not verified through the annual audit;
• adds newly verified travel agents;
• retains existing agents that passed the audit; and
• updates the business names of certain approved agents.

Importantly, this change updates the approved travel agent list. It should not be understood as introducing a new set of eligibility or qualification rules for ADS travel agents.

What Is the ADS Stream?

The ADS stream is a dedicated Subclass 600 pathway that facilitates organised group travel from the People’s Republic of China to Australia.

For an ADS stream application, the applicant must intend to travel to Australia as part of a tour organised by a travel agent specified by the Minister.

This means the status of the travel agent remains an important part of the ADS visa process.

Other Legislative Updates

MIA Notice 20 also highlighted several other legislative developments commencing around the same period.

These included updates relating to:

• country names used for certain migration health criteria;
• the ESOS agency framework for ELICOS and Foundation Programs; and
• the form and manner requirements for Subclass 651 eVisitor visa applications.

These are separate legislative changes and should be considered according to the relevant instrument and individual circumstances.

Who Should Check the Updated ADS List?

The update is particularly relevant to:

• Chinese nationals planning to visit Australia through an ADS group tour;
• travel agents involved in ADS group travel; and
• migration professionals assisting with Subclass 600 ADS matters.

If you are preparing an ADS application, it is important to confirm that your tour is being organised by a travel agent appearing on the current approved list.

Where an agent has been removed or its status has changed, the impact on an existing or proposed application should be assessed carefully.

Practical Steps for Affected Travellers

1. Confirm that the travel agent organising your ADS tour appears on the current approved list.
2. If your agent is no longer listed, do not assume your application can proceed unchanged.
3. Consider whether another Visitor visa option may be available and appropriate for your circumstances.
4. If you already have an application underway, seek professional advice before changing your travel or visa arrangements.

Key Takeaways

• The updated ADS travel agent list took effect on 29 September 2026.
• The amendment removes certain agents, adds newly verified agents and updates some existing business names.
• This is an update to the approved agent list, rather than a new set of ADS travel agent eligibility rules.
• ADS applicants should check that their tour operator is on the current list before proceeding.

If you are planning to visit Australia and are unsure whether the ADS stream or another Visitor visa option is appropriate, Riverwood Migration’s legal team can review your circumstances and advise you on the most suitable visa pathway.

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Visa requirements and individual circumstances vary. Professional advice should be obtained before making decisions about your application.

The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.

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