For different nationality holders, the Australian government has set and enforced different entry requirements. While some foreign nationals can enter Australia visa-free, others must obtain a travel document to stay in the country.
In this article, we have mentioned everything you need to know about traveling to Australia using a UK passport. So, without further ado, let's get into it!
Australia Visa Options for UK Citizens
Let's start with the most basic question: do UK nationals require a visa to enter Australia?
Well, the answer to this question depends upon your purpose of visit. If you're transiting through Australia, you don’t need a valid visa. For transiting purposes, the Australian government allows you to stay at the airport for less than 8 hours without a proper visa. Alternatively, if you want to enter the country for tourism or business purposes, you must obtain one of the following types of Australian visas:
Australia Regular Visa
You can get a traditional paper or stamp visa for tourism and business purposes. In the past, applicants were required to apply for a traditional visa by visiting the Australian embassy. However, you can now partner up with VisaHQ to apply for a traditional visa from the comfort of your home.
You can only apply for a traditional visa if you have been rejected for an ETA!
Australia eVisitor Visa
Alternatively, British nationals can also apply for an ETA or eVisitor visa to travel to Australia. The electronic travel authority (ETA) is an e-visa that permits holders to enter the country without a paper visa. The Australian government has started the ETA system to make the visa application process simple and convenient.
Unlike a traditional visa, UK passport holders can apply for an ETA online. This means you don’t need to visit the Australian embassy or consulate office. You don’t even have to schedule an appointment for a visa interview.
Australia ETA Requirements
The United Kingdom is one of the 8 countries whose citizens are eligible for an ETA. Compared to a traditional visa, an ETA is undoubtedly a more convenient option. However, to get your ETA, you'll need to fulfill some character and health requirements implemented by the Australian department of home affairs, including:
They must not have a criminal record.
They must not require community or health services at the expense of Australian citizens.
They must have an original UK passport with at least 3 months of the remaining validity period.
They must have good character.
If you fulfill the above-mentioned requirements, you can apply for an ETA. To do so, you'll need a few things, such as:
Valid Passport - A copy of your original passport with at least 2 blank pages and 3 months of remaining validity.
E-mail Address - The applicant's email address will be electronically linked to their passport. Once your ETA is approved by the embassy, you'll get your travel documents via email.
Means of Payment - You are required to pay the embassy fee as well as the visa service fee. To do so, you can use digital payment options, such as a debit card, credit card, or PayPal account.
Besides these, you might require some additional supporting documents depending on your purposes of visit. So, make sure to check the visa requirements before applying for an ETA!
How to Apply for an ETA Online?
The Australian government has started the ETA system to make the visa application process simple and convenient. You can apply for this travel document on your own. All you need to do is:
Download the "Australian ETA" app on your smartphone
Log in with your credentials
Fill out the ETA application form
Pay the ETA fee
Submit your online application form with supporting documents
You can complete the entire visa application process within 10 minutes. Afterward, the Australian government will process your application. Once approved, you'll receive your ETA via email!
Processing Time
The estimated processing time for an Australian ETA is 3-5 business days. However, there are some factors, such as the purpose of your visit, that can increase the time frame. Therefore, it's recommended to apply for an ETA at least 2 weeks prior to the intended departure date!
Travel to Australia - Entry Requirements
Once you get your ETA, you can download it on your mobile or print it as you'll need to present it at the border crossing. Keep in mind that an ETA does not guarantee your entry into Australia; the final decision will be made by the immigration officers. So, make sure to fulfill all the entry requirements while traveling to Australia.
To enter Australia, UK nationals must have a valid ETA, passport, as well as an incoming passenger card (IPC)!