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Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601)

On this page
  1. Who can get an ETA?
  2. How do I apply?
  3. What can you do?
  4. How long is it valid?
  5. Can I extend my stay?
  6. FAQ

Who can get an ETA?

You must hold an eligible passport. The list is: Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (SAR of China), Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (excluding official or diplomatic passports), the Netherlands, United Kingdom (British Citizen and British National Overseas), United States of America and Vatican City.

European passport holders may be eligible for an eVisitor instead. Australian citizens cannot apply, and permanent residents should see the overseas travel rules.

How do I apply?

Only through the Australian ETA app, and you must be outside Australia. Watch the ETA video guides first. If you cannot use the app, you can apply for another suitable visa in ImmiAccount. Each family member, including children on your passport, needs a separate application.

What can you do?

  • visit family or friends, cruise or holiday
  • undertake business visitor activities, such as general business enquiries, negotiating or reviewing a contract, official government visits, and conferences, trade fairs or seminars where the organisers do not pay you
  • study or train for up to 3 months in total (apply for a Visitor visa 600 if you want to train at a childcare centre, study to be a doctor, dentist, nurse or paramedic, or enter health care settings)

You cannot work for or provide services to an Australian business, or sell goods or services to the public. Working on an ETA can lead to cancellation and removal.

How long is it valid?

12 months from the date it is granted, or the passport's validity if shorter, with multiple entries. You can stay 3 months after each entry. If you travel often or stay for long periods, you may be asked about your travel purpose, and the ETA may be cancelled if you are not a genuine visitor.

Can I extend my stay?

No. To stay longer you must apply for another visa, such as a Visitor visa 600. Staying after the ETA ends makes you an unlawful non-citizen.

FAQ

Can I work on an ETA?

No. Business visitor activities are allowed.

Is the ETA the same as a visa?

It is subclass 601, an authority linked to your passport.

Can I apply from Australia?

No, only from outside Australia.

What if my passport isn't on the list?

Apply for the Visitor visa 600.

ETA or eVisitor?

If your passport qualifies for both, the eVisitor is free while the ETA has the A$20 app charge. See eVisitor.

Are there scams?

Yes. Use only the official app. See visa scams.