VISITORS to Australia may soon have their visa applications processed on the same day they request them.

The Australian Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs is looking at setting up an on-line system in the territory and elsewhere in Asia to speed up applications.

The department said lodging visas by computer would allow faster processing through travel agents or airlines, saving applicants the need to apply personally at the Consulate-General.

Immigration Minister Senator Nick Bolkus said approval would usually be given within 24 hours.