Which Countries Are Eligible for ETA Visa in Australia?

If you're planning to visit Australia, you may have come across the term ETA visa and wondered, "Which countries are eligible for ETA visa in Australia?" The ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa is a popular and convenient visa option for short-term travel to Australia, but it is not available to all countries. In this article, we will explore the ETA visa eligibility criteria and list the countries eligible for the ETA visa to Australia.

What is an ETA Visa for Australia?

The ETA visa for Australia is an electronic visa that allows travelers from certain countries to visit Australia for tourism, business, or short family visits. The ETA is a fast, efficient, and low-cost way to obtain permission to enter Australia, and it is ideal for travelers who do not plan to stay for extended periods. Once granted, the ETA visa allows visitors to stay in Australia for up to three months at a time.

Which Countries Are Eligible for ETA Visa in Australia?

The ETA is available to citizens from select countries, most of which are visa-exempt for short visits. Here is a list of countries and regions whose citizens are eligible to apply for the ETA visa for Australia:

1. Andorra
2. Belgium
3. Brunei
4. Canada
5. Denmark
6. Finland
7. France
8. Germany
9. Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Hong Kong passport holders
10. Iceland
11. Ireland
12. Italy
13. Japan
14. Luxembourg
15. Malta
16. Monaco
17. Netherlands
18. Norway
19. Portugal
20. Singapore
21. South Korea
22. Spain
23. Sweden
24. Switzerland
25. United Kingdom – Citizens of the UK, including British citizens, British overseas territories citizens, British overseas citizens, and British nationals (overseas).
26. United States – Citizens of the USA
27. Vatican City

Note: Citizens of these countries can apply for the ETA visa online or through the mobile app. The ETA visa is typically valid for one year, with multiple entries allowed, but each stay must not exceed three months.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for the ETA?

Even if you're from one of the eligible countries, you must meet certain eligibility requirements to apply for the ETA visa for Australia. These include:

1. Valid Passport:

   • You must hold a valid passport from one of the eligible countries.
   • Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your planned departure from Australia.

2. Good Health:

   • You must be in good health to apply for the ETA. Travelers with significant medical conditions may need to apply for a different type of visa.

3. No Criminal Record:

   • Applicants should not have a criminal record or be involved in illegal activities. If you have a criminal history, your application for an ETA visa may be refused.

4. Travel Purpose:

   • The ETA visa is for tourism, business (such as attending conferences), and family visits. If you plan to work or study in Australia, you will need a different type of visa.

5. Sufficient Funds:

   • You may need to show that you have sufficient funds for your stay in Australia.

How to Apply for ETA Visa for Australia?

The process for applying for an ETA visa is quick and easy. If you are from one of the eligible countries, you can apply for the ETA online or through the ETA mobile app. Here’s how to apply:

1. Complete the Application:

   • The online application requires basic personal information, including your passport details, travel plans, and contact information.

2. Pay the Application Fee:

   • The ETA has a small processing fee (typically around AUD 20). You can pay this fee using a credit or debit card during the application process.

3. Wait for Approval:

   • The ETA visa is often approved within minutes, but in some cases, it can take up to a few days. Once approved, you will receive the visa electronically, and there’s no need for a visa label in your passport.

4. Travel to Australia:

   • Once approved, you can travel to Australia as long as your ETA visa is valid. Keep in mind that the ETA allows stays of up to three months per visit, and you can enter multiple times within the 12-month validity period.

What to Do If You Are Not Eligible for the ETA Visa?

If you are not a citizen of an ETA-eligible country, you will need to apply for a different type of visa to travel to Australia. Here are some alternatives:

1. Visitor Visa (subclass 600):

   • The Visitor Visa is available for people from countries not eligible for the ETA. It allows you to stay in Australia for a longer period (up to 12 months) and is suitable for tourism, family visits, and short-term business activities.

2. Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417):

   • If you are aged between 18 and 30 and from an eligible country, you can apply for a Working Holiday Visa, which allows you to work and travel in Australia for up to one year.

3. Tourist Visa (subclass 676):

   • The Tourist Visa is another option for visitors from non-ETA-eligible countries who wish to stay in Australia for tourism or business purposes.

Conclusion: Which Countries Are Eligible for ETA Visa in Australia?

The ETA visa for Australia is available to citizens from over 30 countries, primarily those from Western Europe, North America, and select other regions. The ETA is a convenient and affordable visa option for short visits, and eligible travelers can apply for it online or via the mobile app.

If you are not from one of the eligible countries, you will need to explore other visa options to visit Australia. Be sure to review the visa requirements carefully before applying to ensure a smooth travel experience.

By understanding the ETA eligibility criteria and the countries that qualify, you can easily determine whether the ETA visa is the right choice for your visit to Australia.

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.