How to Obtain an Australian Travel Visa

Alizabeth Bronsdon Photography

The Australian Travel Authority's online application makes applying for an Australian Travel Visa easy. You are required to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) if you wish to enter the country -- even for a short holiday visit or conference/business trip.

According to the ETA website (www.eta.immi.gov.au), an ETA is equivalent to a visa but much quicker and easier to obtain. Any travel agent or airline can submit your application but will often charge a small processing fee. The cheaper option is to fill out the online application directly through the website. Most see immediate processing and approval.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

How to Obtain Your Australian Travel Visa

Things You’ll Need:

Your passport Credit card information
Your passport
Credit card information

Step 1

Click "Apply for ETA" on the upper left-hand side of the Australian Government's Electronic Travel Authority website.

Step 2

Following the instructions at the top of the page, enter the information exactly as it appears on your passport. Reference question marks on the right side of each line if you are unsure where to find this information.

Step 3

Click "Next" to select the type of ETA you would like to apply for.

Step 4

Enter your email address.

Step 5

Re-enter passport number, nationality, date of birth, and family name for verification.
Click "Next."

Step 6

Read over the information you entered and check to see that it is all correct. At this point, you may change any incorrect data by clicking "Change." If it is all correct, click "Next" and proceed to the payment section where you will enter your credit card information and submit the application for approval.

Step 7

Sit back and wait for an approval email from the Australian government. Immediate approval is not uncommon.

Tips & Warnings

ETA is valid for 12 months with stays of up to three months per visit. ETA can be used for single- or multiple-entry travel.

ETA is valid for 12 months with stays of up to three months per visit.

ETA can be used for single- or multiple-entry travel.

Online applications incur a charge of AUS$20.00. Payment is by credit card only (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, and JCB accepted). Payment does not guarantee approval. You must currently be outside of Australia to apply for an ETA. Employment is prohibited for both the Visitor ETA and Short Validity Business ETA. You must be in good health and have no criminal convictions to enter Australia.

Online applications incur a charge of AUS$20.00.

Payment is by credit card only (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, and JCB accepted).

Payment does not guarantee approval.

You must currently be outside of Australia to apply for an ETA.

Employment is prohibited for both the Visitor ETA and Short Validity Business ETA.

You must be in good health and have no criminal convictions to enter Australia.

Resources

ETA website

Article Written By Contributing Writer

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