Both US and Australia have the same travel system. While the US government offers ESTA (Electronic System of Travel Authorization), Australia provides ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). An ETA allows foreigners to enter Australia without applying for a traditional visa.
In this article, we have explained the ETA in detail. So, continue reading to learn what an ETA is and how to apply for it!
Do Dutch Citizens Need an Australian Visa?
All foreigners, even Dutch nationals, are required to have a travel document to visit Australia. Fortunately, you can apply for an ETA instead of a traditional visa.
The ETA was launched in 1996, but now it's accessible to more than 35 European countries, including the Netherlands. An ETA is a short-term travel document that allows you to enter Australia to enjoy its beaches, culture, and outdoor lifestyle. In case an entire family is traveling together, all members are required to have a separate ETA before departure.
A Dutch citizen can apply for an ETA, if:
They don’t have a criminal record
They don’t have diseases that can affect the general public
They don’t want to intimidate or stalk an Australian resident
How to Apply for Australia Visa from the Netherlands?
Getting an ETA is faster and more convenient than a traditional visa. You don’t need to visit the Australian embassy, follow complicated steps, or schedule an appointment for a visa interview. All you need to do is:
Fill out the electronic visa application form
Pay the visa processing fees
Submit your online form
All of these steps will only take 10 minutes to complete. Afterward, you'll get your e-visa via email!
Visa Application Form
The most important thing a Dutch citizen requires is an application form to apply for an Australian ETA. You'll need to provide personal details, contact information, and travel details to fill out the application form.
These travel requirements include:
Full name
Date of birth
Passport number
Passport issue and expiry date
Medical history
Travel dates
Criminal conviction history
Before submitting your application form, make sure to double-check all the information provided. This is because if there are mistakes or errors in your application form, you might have to wait a little longer. In worst scenarios, failure to provide correct details can also result in a denied application.
Furthermore, it's recommended to get a COVID-19 vaccination prior to traveling. Otherwise, you may have to undergo self-isolation!
Documents Required
To get your ETA, all applicants are required to fulfill personal and health requirements. Dutch citizens are required to have:
A valid passport
An active email address
Proof of no medical services required
Health insurance
Criminal conviction record
Health clearance record
Proof of sufficient funds
Make sure your passport has at least 3 months of validity remaining. Also, your email address will be electronically linked to your passport. So, ensure you are using your active e-mail address.
You also need to have a valid form of payment to complete the visa application process. The actual service fee depends upon your selected service provider. You can use a debit or credit card and pay the visa fee using a secure online payment option!
In some scenarios, you'll need to provide proof of good conduct as well! Furthermore, you'll need to undergo some medical examinations to eliminate any health risk factors for permanent residents of Australia. Dutch citizens are also required to inform the Australian government if they:
Change their marital status
Give birth to a child
Renew passport
Change email address or phone number
Estimated Processing Time
Once you submit your application, you'll need to wait for a few days to get your ETA. On average, the processing time for an ETA is around 3-5 days. However, due to secondary checks and high demand, you may have to wait a little longer.
In addition, if additional documents are required or there are mistakes with your application form, the application process may take longer. Therefore, it's recommended to apply for an ETA at lead 2 weeks before your intended trip!
Can You Renew an Australian ETA?
No, an Australian electronic visa cannot be renewed. It is valid for multiple entries and comes with a validity period of 1 year. With an Australian e-visa, you can stay in the country for 90 days. If you want to stay longer in the country, you'll need to apply for a visitor visa instead of an eVisitor visa!
In case your ETA is about to expire, you can also apply for a new Australia ETA using the same passport. To do so, you still need to leave Australia. You can apply for an eta 2 weeks prior to the actual expiry date. You can follow the above-mentioned method to apply for an ETA.