The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), also known as subclass 601 visa, is a digital authorization that serves as an equivalent to a visa, granting permission for travel to Australia. It is electronically linked to your passport, replacing the need for a visa label or stamp. The ETA simplifies the visa application process for citizens of selected countries by eliminating the need for traditional paper-based application forms.
The ETA enable eligible individuals with eligible passports to visit Australia for tourism or certain business activities. With this visa, you can travel to Australia for several purposes. You may visit as a tourist, enjoying activities like cruising or taking a holiday. Additionally, you can visit family or friends residing in Australia. As a business visitor, you have the flexibility to engage in several activities, including making business inquiries, negotiating contracts, participating in government visits, or attending conferences, trade fairs, or seminars (without receiving payment from organizers).
However, there are restrictions. You may not work or provide services for an Australian-based company. You are not permitted as well to sell goods or services to the public while in the country.
Under the ETA, you can engage in study or training for a maximum duration of three months. If your primary purpose for traveling to Australia is to study, it is advisable to apply for a student visa.
To qualify for an Australian ETA, you must genuinely be a visitor who meets the following criteria:
In addition to the above, you must hold an eligible passport from one of the following countries:
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Republic of San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (excluding official or diplomatic passports), United Kingdom—British Citizens and British Nationals (Overseas), United States of America, Vatican City
To apply for Australia ETA, you need:
If your ETA application cannot be processed initially, you will need to provide additional information to the Department of Home Affairs. The supporting documents may include:
Before initiating the ETA application process, it’s recommended to commence at least four weeks in advance to allow ample time for processing. Keep in mind that certain applicants might be required to provide supplementary information.
To start, have a mobile device equipped with a camera. This will be used for capturing a photograph of yourself and the data page of your passport. It’s essential to have your device’s location services and near-field communication (NFC) capabilities enabled.
To initiate the application process, you need to download the official Australian ETA app onto your mobile phone. Use the app’s functionality to scan your passport, which will automatically populate your personal details. Capture a photograph of yourself, ensuring it adheres to the specified requirements. Respond to a series of questions presented by the app. These questions cover various aspects, including criminal convictions and contact details within Australia. Proceed to pay the required service fee. Once you’ve completed the necessary steps, submit your application through the app.
Each individual, including those mentioned in your passport, must complete a separate application. While family members can apply using the same mobile device, the applications should be submitted and paid for individually. When applying, it is important to truthfully answer all questions, including disclosing any other passports, previous names used, and any criminal convictions or history of domestic violence.
Following the submission of your application, keep a vigilant eye on your email inbox, including your junk mail or spam folder. You can expect to receive a notification from the Department of Home Affairs, which could take up to 12 hours to arrive. This notification will contain a written decision pertaining to your visa application. If your application is approved, the notification will furnish details such as your visa grant number, start date, and any associated conditions.
If you receive a communication stating that your ETA application cannot be processed, you will need to supply further information. Access the link provided in the email attachment to complete the ETA form online via ImmiAccount. Attach all requested documents, including Form 1554: ETA request for further processing. Include as much information as possible, as the decision may rely on the materials you provide. Be aware that incomplete or inaccurate submissions could result in delays or rejection of your application.
Typically, you can expect to receive immediate notification regarding the outcome of your ETA application. In some instances, notifications may require more time to be sent to you (up to 12 hours). It is important to regularly check your email, including the junk mail folder, for a written notification.
Please note that applications may take longer to be processed in case of any of the below situations:
While there is no visa application charge involved, a fee of AUD20 will apply for using the app during the application process of the Australia ETA. It is payable through a debit or credit card.
The issued ETA is temporary enabling individuals to travel to Australia for a period of 12 months or until the expiration of your passport, whichever is shorter. It allows multiple entries, granting the freedom to enter and exit Australia as desired while the visa remains valid. Following each entry, a stay of up to 3 months is allowed within the country. However, if extended stays or frequent visits occur, immigration officials may question the purpose of your travel upon subsequent entries. If it is determined that your intentions are not genuine, your Australia Electronic Travel Authority may be revoked.
In order to exceed the 3-month limit per visit, you should apply for a new visa that aligns with your specific situations. The visa’s validity begins on the date it is granted, unless you already possess another valid visa.
Prior to travelling, you need to make sure that you have all the needed documents with you in order to enter the country. This includes a valid visa and a valid passport or alternative travel document. Remember that your Australia Electronic Travel Authorization is connected to the passport you used for the application, so it is crucial to use the same passport when entering Australia. You will be required to apply for a new Australia ETA visa if your passport expired or you issued a new one.
Upon arrival at the border, it is mandatory for all travelers to complete an Incoming Passenger Card. This is a standard procedure for anyone entering Australia.
To expedite your exit from the airport, you may have the option to use the SmartGate system, which employs facial recognition technology and your ePassport. Utilizing SmartGate can potentially speed up the process of leaving the airport.
When you’re in Australia, you are expected to adhere to all visa conditions in addition to the Australian laws. The specific conditions associated with your visa can be found in your visa grant letter or through VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online). If you fail to abide by these conditions, your ETA will be cancelled with the possibility removal or denial of entry into Australia.
To keep track of your ETA status and details, you can access VEVO to check for updates. Additionally, the Australian ETA App offers a “Visa check” function where you can monitor the progress of your application.
In case of any change in your situation, such as the expiry of your passport or wrong personal information on your issued ETA, you will have to notify the respective department of the error by using the “Contact us” page on the ETA app. As stated earlier, in case of any change in your passport you will need to apply for a new ETA.
If you have an existing Australia ETA visa and wish to renew or extend it, it’s important to understand the process and any specific requirements involved. However, extending your visa in Australia will not extend your overall stay duration. Therefore, we advise you to consider another visa option and apply for it. Make sure to thoroughly investigate the various visa alternatives available to you.
It is important to adhere to all of the visa regulations, and refrain from staying in the country if your ETA is expired unless you possess another valid visa. Otherwise, you might be unlawful and risk deportation from the country.
In the event that your ETA application is rejected, you have the option to submit a fresh application and present additional supporting documentation to address any concerns raised (which should include the necessary information mentioned earlier). Should you decide to submit a new application, it is essential to utilize the Australian ETA app. You will be informed by writing in case your ETA application was rejected. The written communication will provide the reasons for the visa refusal and clarify whether you have the right to request a review of the decision.
Can I apply for Australia ETA from UK?
Yes, United Kingdom citizens may apply for Australia ETA.
What is the Australia ETA price?
There is only an app service fee of AUD20 that will be charged when applying for your Australia ETA visa
Can I apply for Australia ETA online?
You should apply using the Australia ETA app. It is available on both App Store and Google Play Store.
What is the duration of the Australia ETA visa?
The ETA visa is valid for 12 months and allows multiple entries to the country. For each visit, the stay period allowed is 3 months.
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