Australia is one of the most popular destinations all around the globe. Although the country is known for wildlife, it also features numerous gorgeous landscapes and delicious cuisines. Therefore, each year millions of international passport holders visit Australia for both fun and business purposes.
Before you travel to a foreign country, including Australia, the most important thing you need is a valid visa. The Australian government has set different visa policies for different nationality holders. While foreigners can apply for a traditional visa, citizens of 8 countries are eligible for an electronic travel authority (ETA).
What is an Australia ETA?
The Australian government has started the ETA system to make the visa application process simple and convenient. An ETA or electronic travel authority is like an e-visa that allows holders to enter Australia without a traditional paper or stamp visa. Instead, holders can apply for an ETA online to visit the country.
An ETA holder enjoys all the rights of a traditional paper visa. The only difference between a traditional visa and an ETA is that you can apply for an ETA from the comfort of your home. No more visiting the Australian embassy or consulate office. No more following complicated steps. You don’t even have to schedule an appointment for a visa interview with Australian authorities.
To get an ETA, you do need to fulfill some character and security requirements set and enforced by the Immigration Department of Home Affairs. These requirements are as follows:
Applicants must have a valid passport with at least 3 months of remaining validity.
They must have good character.
They must not have a criminal record.
They must not travel to Australia to hurt or harass someone else.
They must not have a disease that can affect the general public.
They must not require costly community and health services at the expense of the Australian citizens.
Validity Period
Australian ETA visa is a multiple-entry travel document that allows visa holders to stay in the country for 90 consecutive days within a 1-year period. This means your travel document will stay valid for multiple entries within the next 12 months.
An ETA can be used for tourism, business, and transit purposes, including:
Visiting family members or friends
Exploring the country
Spending holidays
Meeting with business associates
Signing business contract
Attending business seminars and conferences
Processing Time
The Australia ETA processing time varies from applicant to applicant. The estimated processing time for an ETA is 1-3 business days. However, due to high demand and secondary checks, you may have to wait a little longer.
In addition, if there are errors or mistakes in your ETA application form, your travel document will more likely be delayed. Therefore, it's recommended to apply for an Australia ETA at least 2 weeks prior to the intended departure date!
Australian ETA Requirements
To get your ETA, you'll need to fulfill some passport, character, and health requirements, also known as the Australia ETA requirements. These requirements are as follows:
Required Documents
You'll need to have a few documents to apply for an ETA online, including:
Valid passport - A copy of your original passport that has at least 3 months of remaining validity with 2 blank pages for stamps.
E-mail address - A valid and active email address through which you'll receive your ETA. Your email will be electronically linked to your passport. So, make sure it is your own email address.
Means of payment - Applicants are required to pay the embassy fee as well as the Australia visa service fee. As this entire process is streamlined, you'll need online means of payment to pay the ETA processing fees, such as debit or credit card.
These are the most basic documents required to apply for an ETA. Besides these, you might have to provide some additional documents depending on your purpose of visit.
Health Requirements
Simply put, you should not have a disease, such as tuberculosis, that represents a threat to Australian citizens. Also, it's recommended to have a covid-19 vaccination certificate beforehand to avoid self-isolation!
How To Apply for An Australian ETA?
Compared to a traditional Australian visa, most travelers prefer an ETA visa. This is because applying for an Australian electronic travel authority is more convenient and faster. You can complete this entire process within 10 minutes from the comfort of your home.
To get an ETA, you are required to:
Download the "Australian ETA" app on your smartphone
Log in with your credentials
Fill out the Australia ETA application form
Pay the ETA processing fee
Submit your application
That's it! Afterward, the Australian embassy will process your application. You can check out the ETA status using the "Australian ETA" app. Upon approval, you'll receive your travel documents via email!