The Australia ETA (Electronic Travel Authority, Subclass 601) is a digital multiple-entry visa for eligible passport holders visiting Australia for tourism or business.
It costs AUD $20, is valid for 12 months with stays up to 3 months per visit, and is applied for exclusively via the free AustralianETA app on iOS or Android — there is no web form.
What Is the Australia ETA?
The Australian ETA is an electronically stored travel authorization — not a physical visa — that allows eligible passport holders to visit Australia for short-term tourism or business purposes.
Officially classified as Subclass 601, the ETA is linked directly to your passport number and stored in Australia’s immigration database. You do not receive a stamp, sticker, or physical document.
The ETA was introduced to streamline entry for citizens of low-risk countries. Unlike a traditional visa, the ETA is processed digitally and — in most cases — approved instantly.
Key facts about the Australia ETA:
- Issued by the Australian Department of Home Affairs
- Electronically linked to your passport — no print required
- Valid for 12 months from the date of grant
- Allows unlimited entries to Australia during the 12-month validity
- Each stay is up to 3 months
- Cost is AUD $20
Who Needs an ETA for Australia?
Citizens of around 30 eligible countries and regions — including the USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Singapore, and most of Western Europe — must apply for an ETA before travelling to Australia for tourism or business.
If your country is not on the eligible list, you need a different visa (typically a Visitor visa, Subclass 600).
Eligible Passport Countries (Full List)
The following passport holders are eligible to apply for the Australia ETA:
| Region | Countries / Regions |
|---|---|
| Americas | Canada, United States |
| Asia-Pacific | Brunei, Hong Kong (SAR of China), Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan* |
| Europe | Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Norway, Portugal, Republic of San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, United Kingdom (British Citizen), United Kingdom (British National Overseas), Vatican City |
*Taiwan: must not purport to be an official or diplomatic passport.
For the official list, visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Who Does NOT Need an ETA
The following travellers do not need an Australia ETA:
- Australian citizens — no authorization needed
- New Zealand citizens — exempt under Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement
- Travellers who already hold a valid Australian visa
- Australian permanent residents — exempt (but must carry their PR visa)
- Citizens of countries not on the eligible list — they need a Visitor visa (Subclass 600) instead
- European passport holders — may be eligible for the free eVisitor (Subclass 651) instead
How to Apply for the Australia ETA
The Australia ETA can only be applied for via the free AustralianETA app — available on iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play). There is no web form or alternative application method. Most applications are approved instantly.
What You Need Before Applying
Before opening the app, make sure you have:
- A valid passport from an eligible country
- A smartphone with NFC capability (required to scan your passport chip)
- A credit or debit card (Visa or Mastercard) for the AUD $20 service fee
- Good lighting for the live selfie
IMPORTANT: The AustralianETA app requires NFC (Near Field Communication) to read your passport chip. Older smartphones without NFC cannot complete the application. Check your phone’s specifications before starting.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Download the AustralianETA app — free on App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Scan your passport data page — the app reads your passport details automatically.
- Read your passport chip via NFC — hold your phone against the passport chip.
- Take a live selfie — the app captures your photo in real time (no uploaded photos).
- Answer eligibility questions — criminal record, health, and purpose of visit.
- Pay the AUD $20 service fee — by credit or debit card.
- Receive your ETA decision — usually instant; occasionally takes a few days.
AustralianETA App: Download & Setup
The AustralianETA app is the official application developed by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. It is free to download. The AUD $20 is a service fee charged within the app — it is not a government visa charge.
Troubleshooting:
- App not working / NFC error: Ensure NFC is enabled in your phone settings. Remove any phone case that may block the NFC signal.
- Selfie rejected: Ensure good lighting, remove glasses, and look directly at the camera.
- Payment declined: Try a different card or contact your bank.
Australia ETA Cost and Fees
The Australia ETA costs AUD $20 as a service fee, payable by credit or debit card within the AustralianETA app. There is no additional government charge on top of this fee.
| Fee type | Amount |
|---|---|
| ETA service fee | AUD $20 |
| Government visa charge | AUD $0 |
| Total | AUD $20 |
In comparison, the eVisitor (Subclass 651) — available to European passport holders — is completely free. If you hold a European passport, check whether you qualify for the eVisitor before applying for the ETA.
Australia ETA Processing Time
Most Australia ETA applications are approved instantly — within seconds of submitting the app. In rare cases, processing can take up to a few business days if additional checks are required.
Recommendations:
- Apply before booking your flights — do not assume instant approval.
- Submit the application at least 72 hours before departure to allow time for any delays.
- Contact the Department of Home Affairs if your ETA is still pending after 5 business days.
Why might processing take longer?
- Your passport details require manual verification
- Your answers to eligibility questions triggered a secondary review
- Technical issues with the app or payment
There is no way to expedite ETA processing, since the Department of Home Affairs does not offer a priority service for ETAs.
Australia ETA Validity and Multiple Entry
The Australia ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of grant — or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
During this one-year period, you can enter Australia as many times as you wish, with each stay up to 3 months.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | 12 months from grant date |
| Entries | Unlimited during validity |
| Stay per visit | Up to 3 months |
| Extension | Not possible — must leave and re-enter, or apply for Subclass 600 |
If you need to stay in Australia for longer than 3 months, you must apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600), which allows stays of up to 12 months.
What Happens When Your Passport Expires
Your Australia ETA is electronically linked to your specific passport. If your passport expires or you get a new passport, your ETA becomes invalid — even if the 12-month ETA validity has not yet expired.
If you renew your passport before your ETA expires, you must apply for a new ETA using your new passport. This is a common mistake — travellers assume their ETA transfers to the new passport, but it does not.
Checklist before travelling:
- Is your passport valid for the entire duration of your stay?
- Is your ETA linked to the passport you are travelling with?
- If you renewed your passport recently, have you applied for a new ETA?
What the Australia ETA Allows You to Do
The Australia ETA permits tourism, visiting family and friends, short-term business activities, up to 3 months of study, and genuine unpaid volunteer work. However, it does not permit paid employment.
Tourism and Visiting Family
On an ETA, you can:
- Take a holiday or vacation in Australia
- Visit family and friends
- Engage in recreational activities
Business Visitor Activities
The ETA permits business visitor activities, which include:
- Making general business or employment enquiries
- Investigating, negotiating, signing, or reviewing a business contract
- Activities carried out as part of an official government-to-government visit
- Participating in conferences, trade fairs, or seminars — as long as you are not being paid by the organisers
NOTE: Business visitor activities are not the same as working. If you want to work in Australia, you need a work visa (e.g., Temporary Work Short Stay Activity visa, Subclass 400).
Study and Volunteer Work
You can study in Australia for up to 3 months in some circumstances. This covers short courses, language programs, and professional development.
You may also perform genuine unpaid volunteer work on an ETA, provided that an Australian resident would not otherwise be paid to do that type of work.
You may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses such as meals and accommodation — but not paid a wage.
Forbidden Activities
What you cannot do in Australia on an ETA:
- Work for pay (any paid employment)
- Stay longer than 3 months per visit
- Study for more than 3 months
- Sell goods or services to the public
- Provide services to a business or organisation in Australia for payment
Australia ETA Requirements
To be granted an Australia ETA, travellers must meet certain conditions.
Passport Requirements
You must hold a valid passport from an eligible country or region, and it must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
Keep in mind that non-citizen passports, such as Certificates of Identity or other travel documents, are not eligible for an ETA.
Criminal Record and Character Requirements
If you have any criminal convictions in any country, you should apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600) rather than an ETA. The Subclass 600 allows for a more detailed assessment of your character.
If you arrive in Australia on an ETA with undisclosed criminal convictions, you may be refused entry at the border. Do not attempt to conceal criminal history.
The character test considers:
- Criminal convictions in any country
- Sentences of 12 months or more imprisonment
- Involvement in criminal conduct (even without conviction)
Health Insurance
Australia’s national health scheme (Medicare) does not cover visitors on an ETA — unless your country has a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia (countries include UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, Norway, and Slovenia).
RECOMMENDATION: Take out comprehensive travel health insurance before every trip to Australia.
Outstanding Government Debts
You must have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government — or have arranged to repay any outstanding debts — before an ETA can be granted. This includes unpaid visa fees, health costs, or other government charges from previous visits.
This requirement is rarely mentioned by other sources but is an official eligibility condition. If you have previously incurred debts to the Australian Government, resolve them before applying.
Australia ETA for Families and Children
Every family member travelling to Australia needs their own separate ETA — including children under 18 who are listed on a parent’s passport.
Key points for families:
- Each person (including infants) requires an individual ETA application
- Each application costs AUD $20
- Children listed on a parent’s passport still need their own ETA
- Apply for all family members before booking flights
How to apply for a child:
- Open the AustralianETA app.
- Select “Apply for someone else”.
- Scan the child’s passport (or the parent’s passport if the child is listed on it).
- Complete the eligibility questions on behalf of the child.
- Pay the AUD $20 fee.
If your child does not have their own passport, contact the Department of Home Affairs for guidance.
How to Check Your Australia ETA Status
Check your Australia ETA status via the AustralianETA app or through VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online).
Method 1: AustralianETA App
Open the app and navigate to your application history. Your ETA status will show as:
- Granted — ETA approved, you can travel
- Pending — application under review
- Refused — ETA denied
Method 2: VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online)
VEVO is the official Australian Government tool for checking visa status. Visit online.immi.gov.au/evo/firstParty and enter your passport details.
The tool shows:
- Whether your ETA is currently valid
- Your ETA conditions (stay duration, work rights)
- Expiry date
Method 3: ImmiAccount
You can check the status of your Australian ETA through your ImmiAccount, particularly if you’ve used it to apply for other Australian visas in the past.
Simply log in to see the details. However, it’s important to note that ETAs applied for using the dedicated mobile app may not always appear or be visible in your ImmiAccount dashboard.
Australia ETA vs eVisitor (Subclass 651): Which One Do You Need?
The Australia ETA (Subclass 601) and the eVisitor (Subclass 651) are both short-term electronic visas for Australia — but they differ in cost, eligibility, and application method.
| Feature | ETA (Subclass 601) | eVisitor (Subclass 651) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | AUD $20 | Free |
| Eligible countries | 33 countries (USA, UK, Canada, Japan, etc.) | European passport holders only |
| Application method | AustralianETA app (iOS/Android) | Online form at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au |
| Validity | 12 months | 12 months |
| Stay per visit | 3 months | 3 months |
| Multiple entry | Yes | Yes |
| NFC phone required | Yes | No |
Which should you choose?
- If you hold a European passport (EU, UK, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, etc.) → apply for the eVisitor (Subclass 651) — it’s free and does not require an NFC phone
- If you hold a US, Canadian, Japanese, or other non-European eligible passport → apply for the ETA (Subclass 601)
- If you have a criminal record → apply for the Visitor visa (Subclass 600) regardless of nationality
NOTE: Some European passport holders are eligible for both the ETA and the eVisitor. In that case, the eVisitor is the better choice — it’s free and the application process is simpler (no NFC required).
What to Do If Your Australia ETA Is Denied
If your Australia ETA is denied, you have several options. An ETA denial does not mean you cannot visit Australia — apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600) instead, which allows for a more detailed assessment of your circumstances.
Common reasons for ETA denial are:
- Criminal record — any conviction in any country
- Outstanding debts to the Australian Government
- Previous visa refusals or cancellations
- Health conditions that may pose a public health risk
- Incomplete or incorrect information in the application
After denial, you
- Apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600) — this visa allows you to provide additional documentation and explanations. It is processed through ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
- Seek migration advice — a registered migration agent (MARA) can assess your situation and advise on the best visa pathway.
- AAT appeal — in some cases, you can appeal a visa refusal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). ETAs are generally not subject to merits review, but Subclass 600 refusals may be.
Do not attempt to reapply for an ETA immediately after denial — the same information will produce the same result. Address the underlying issue first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Australia’s ETA still required?
Yes. The Australia ETA (Subclass 601) is currently required for all eligible passport holders visiting Australia for tourism or business. There are no plans to discontinue it.
What is the ETA for Australia?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) is a digital travel authorization — Subclass 601 — that allows eligible passport holders to visit Australia for up to 3 months per stay, multiple times within a 12-month period.
How long does ETA take to get approved in Australia?
Most ETA applications are approved instantly. In some cases, processing can take up to a few business days. Apply before booking your flights.
Do I need an ETA or a travel visa for Australia?
If you hold a passport from one of the 33 eligible countries, you need an ETA (not a traditional visa). If your country is not on the eligible list, you need a Visitor visa (Subclass 600).
Can I get an Australian ETA at the airport?
No. The ETA must be applied for before you travel. You cannot apply at the airport or on arrival. Apply via the AustralianETA app before your departure.
Can I apply for an Australian ETA without the app?
No. The AustralianETA app is the only way to apply for an ETA. There is no web form or alternative application method. If you cannot use the app (e.g., no NFC phone), apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600) instead.
Is Australia ETA linked to my passport?
Yes. Your ETA is electronically linked to your specific passport number. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA — your existing ETA does not transfer.
How far in advance should I apply for an ETA?
Apply as early as possible — ideally before booking your flights. While most ETAs are approved instantly, apply at least 72 hours before departure to allow time for any delays.
Can I stay in Australia after my ETA expires?
No. You must leave Australia before your ETA expires (either the 12-month validity or the 3-month stay limit). Overstaying your visa can result in detention, deportation, and future visa bans.
What does ETA stand for in Australia?
ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authority. The full official name is Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601).
Do Australian citizens need an ETA to enter the UK?
Yes. Australian citizens travelling to the UK need a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) — a separate system introduced by the UK Government. This is different from the Australia ETA.
Can I work with an ETA?
No. The Australia ETA does not permit paid work. You can perform genuine unpaid volunteer work and business visitor activities (enquiries, contract negotiations, conferences), but not paid employment.
How much does it cost to get an ETA?
The Australia ETA costs AUD $20 as a service fee, paid via the AustralianETA app. There is no additional government charge.
What are the photo requirements for ETA?
The AustralianETA app takes a live selfie during the application process — you do not upload a photo. Ensure good lighting, remove glasses, and look directly at the camera. The app uses facial recognition to match your selfie with your passport photo.
Do I need an ETA if I am in transit through Australia?
Yes. If you hold an eligible passport and are transiting through an Australian airport, you need an ETA — even if you do not plan to leave the transit area. Check with your airline if you are unsure.
Can I extend my Australia ETA?
No. The ETA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than 3 months, you must leave Australia and re-enter (if your 12-month ETA is still valid) or apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600).
Last updated: March 2026. For the most current information, visit the official Department of Home Affairs website.