What is it? Why do you need an ETA?
An ETA is an Electronic Travel Authority required for entry to Australia. An ETA is essentially a paper-free visa that is not stamped or added into a passport. The ETA is verified electronically when checking-in by the participating airline and then by Australian immigration officials upon arrival.
Not all travelers are eligible for the electronic visa but it is much quicker than the traditional paper type that is inserted into passports.
An ETA is also important because airlines may refuse to accept passengers who do not have a valid ETA or visa.
Who does not require one?
Australian nationals, and New Zealand nationals traveling on a New Zealand passport do not require an ETA.
What types of ETAs are there?
- visitor ETA - for passengers traveling with the intent of visiting Australia as a vacation destination, or for visiting friends/relatives.
- Short Validity Business ETA - for passengers traveling on business.
How long is an ETA valid for?
A visitor ETA is valid for visits of up to 3 months (may be used for more than one 3 month visit within a 12 month period). A Short Validity Business ETA has the same period of validity as a visitor ETA.
Who is eligible for an ETA?
Passport holders from the following European countries are eligible for an ETA: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City and UK Citizens (and British Nationals overseas).
Passport holders from the following North American countries are eligible for an ETA: Canada, USA.
Passport holders from the following Asian countries/territories are eligible for an ETA: Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan.
What if I'm not eligible for an ETA?
If not eligible for an ETA, you'll need to get the more traditional type of visa that must be in your passport before arriving in Australia. The types of visas available are like those of the ETA, just that they are not in an electronic form. Applying for this type of visa can be done through an Australian Embassy, High Commission (for Commonwealth country nationals that are not ETA-eligible), or Consulate.
