About the Australian ETA
Your complete guide to the Electronic Travel Authority for Australia
What is an ETA?
Electronic Travel Authority
The ETA (subclass 601) is an electronically stored authority for travel to Australia. It allows eligible passport holders to visit Australia for tourism or business purposes without needing a traditional visa label or stamp in their passport. The authorization is electronically linked to your passport number.
Fast & Convenient
Most ETAs are granted instantly, though some applications may take up to 12 hours. You can apply from anywhere in the world as long as you're outside Australia. No need to visit an embassy or send your passport - the entire process is digital and quick.
ETA Key Features
12 Months Valid
ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of grant, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Multiple entries permitted during validity period.
3 Months Per Visit
Each time you enter Australia, you can stay for up to 3 months. Perfect for holidays, business trips, or visiting family and friends.
34 Countries
Available to passport holders from 34 eligible countries including USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Singapore, and many European nations.
No Physical Visa
Completely electronic - no visa label or stamp needed in passport. Immigration officers access your ETA electronically at the border.
What Can You Do With an ETA?
The ETA allows you to travel to Australia for various short-term purposes:
Sightseeing, recreation, and leisure activities
Social visits with loved ones in Australia
Attend conferences, meetings, or business negotiations
Study for up to 3 months (courses less than 12 weeks)
Arrive on a cruise as a social visitor
Short medical consultations or treatment (not exceeding 3 months)
Important: The ETA does not allow you to work in Australia or provide services for which payment will be received. If you intend to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa.
Eligibility & Requirements
Basic Requirements
- Hold a passport from an eligible country
- Be outside Australia when you apply
- Not have had an ETA cancelled or visa refused
- Meet health requirements
- Meet character requirements
- Not have any outstanding debts to Australian Government
- Be a genuine visitor for tourism or business
Family Applications
Each person traveling to Australia must have their own ETA, including children and infants.
- Each family member needs a separate application
- Children need their own valid passport
- Infants included - all ages require ETA
- Each ETA is electronically linked to individual passports
Pro tip: Apply for all family members at the same time to ensure everyone is approved before your trip.
Important Conditions & Restrictions
Cannot Work
You cannot work or provide services for payment in Australia with an ETA. Working requires a separate work visa.
3 Month Limit
Each visit is limited to 3 months. You cannot extend your stay beyond this period with an ETA.
Passport Linked
If you get a new passport, you need a new ETA. The authorization cannot be transferred between passports.
After Your ETA is Granted
What You'll Receive
Once your ETA is approved, you'll receive email confirmation with your ETA details. Keep this for your records, though you don't need to present it when traveling.
Australian immigration officers will have electronic access to your ETA information when you arrive, so there's no need for paper documents.
Check Your Status
You can check your visa status at any time using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service - a free government tool.
VEVO allows you to confirm your visa conditions, validity dates, and entitlements before and during your trip to Australia.
Learn About VEVOImportant to Remember
Having an approved ETA does not guarantee entry into Australia. Border control officers have the final authority to grant or refuse entry based on your circumstances at the time of arrival. Make sure all your information is accurate and you meet all requirements.
ETA Application Cost
The Australian Government charges AUD $20 for each ETA application. This is a non-refundable processing fee, even if your application is refused.
When you apply through our service, we handle the entire application process on your behalf, including payment to the Australian Government, form completion assistance, and application tracking.
Ready to Apply for Your Australian ETA?
Start your application now and receive your ETA approval quickly
Start Your ETA Application