Australia ETA (subclass 601) visa guide

The basics

Based on available sources, the ETA is an electronically stored authority equivalent to a visa and linked to a passport number. It is for tourism or business visitor activity. Work in Australia is not permitted on an ETA.

Validity

Multiple entries for up to one year, or passport validity, whichever is shorter

Stay per entry

Up to three months for each visit

Where you apply

The Australian ETA app only

Fee

No Visa Application Charge. Application service fee of AUD 20 to use the app

Who it's for

The ETA allows eligible passport holders to visit Australia for tourism or business visitor activity. Eligible passports are set by legislation and change frequently. Check current eligibility on the Department of Home Affairs website before travel.

Official sources indicate that people holding a non-citizen passport, certificate of identity or other travel document cannot apply for an ETA.

• ETAs are not designed to allow repeated extended stays in Australia for other purposes.
• Official sources indicate that travellers with criminal convictions in any country, or who do not meet the health requirements, should apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) rather than an ETA.
• Australia operates a universal visa system. All foreign travellers except New Zealand citizens must hold a visa or travel authority before travelling.

How to apply

Official sources state the Australian ETA app is the only channel to apply for an ETA. It can be downloaded free from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Applying through a website is flagged by the Australian Embassy in the USA as a sign of a scam, as is paying more than AUD 20 to lodge the application.

Sources recommend applying at least 4 weeks in advance, as some applicants may be asked for further information. Do not finalise travel commitments until a visa grant is advised.

• Before you apply: have a valid passport, a mobile device with a camera, near-field communication (NFC) and location services enabled, an accessible email address, and a credit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
• Step 1: Scan your passport to pre-fill your name, date of birth, passport number and other details.
• Step 2: Take a photo of yourself.
• Step 3: Answer questions, including about criminal convictions, other names and contact details in Australia.
• Step 4: Pay the AUD 20 service fee.
• Each individual must submit an application, including infants and children. A travel agent can apply on your behalf, but you must be physically present for the photo and passport scan.
• An outcome notification is sent by email, with sources indicating within 72 hours. Check junk or spam folders. Status can also be checked in the app or through the Check an ETA function.
• If your application cannot be processed online, the outcome letter will direct you to provide more information through an ImmiAccount, including Form 1554 (ETA request for further processing).

Documents

The ETA application itself is completed in the app. A general document list is not stated for the standard application. If further information is requested, the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur lists the items below.

• Copy of your passport biodata page and the front and back of your national identity card.
• Completed Form 1554: ETA request for further processing.
• A cover letter explaining the reason for your visit, intended stay and activities.
• Evidence of employment or study in your country of residence.
• Evidence of sufficient funds, such as bank statements and salary slips, or evidence from the person who supports you.
• Evidence of travel arrangements, such as accommodation bookings and airfares.
• A list of immediate family members, including full names, dates of birth and relationship to you.
• If travelling as a group or family, use the Group ID function in the application.

Stay and extensions

Official sources indicate a stay of up to three months for each visit, with multiple entries for up to one year or passport validity, whichever is shorter.

Sources reviewed do not state extension terms for the ETA. If you renew your passport after an ETA is granted, official sources say you will need to apply for a new ETA. Entry is always at the discretion of the border force officer.

Things to confirm

• Whether your passport is currently eligible for the ETA. Rules vary by nationality and change frequently.
• Extension options while in Australia, which sources reviewed do not state.
• Current processing times and any fee changes, on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Sources

Every claim above comes from these pages. Higher tiers carry more authority. How we tier sources.