How to Get a Tourist Visa in Australia

Those who want to visit Australia for vacation or for business must first obtain a visa from the Australian government. There are several reasons why people might want to obtain a visa and visit Australia. While some are interested in touring the facilities used during the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, others are interested in learning more about the aboriginal people and their culture. Other locations, like the Great Barrier Reef, also make Australia a popular destination.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Passport

1. Visit the Web site for the Australian Electronic Travel Authority. On the top left of the page there is a button that says, "Apply for Visa." Click on the button. A new page will appear that includes legal information. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click, "I Accept."

2. Begin entering your information into the application for the passport that appears on the next page. This page requires information such as the applicant's name, date of birth, country of residence and passport number. Click "Next."

3. Enter the type of passport for which you are applying in the next window that opens. Next to "Type of ETA," select "Visitor." Two boxes will appear. One asking, "Are You Outside of Australia?" and the other asking, "Are You inside of Australia?"
   Check the appropriate box and then enter your email address. At the bottom of the screen, enter the information requested. This information must match up with the information submitted in Step 2. Click "Next."

4. Check the information displayed on the next page for accuracy. Incorrect details could result in the denial of the application. Once you have ensured the information is correct, click "Next." If there is a problem with the information, click "Back" and re-enter it as necessary.

5. Record the reference number that appears on the next page. This reference number will allow you to access your status information after submitting the application. Click "Next."

6. Click "Submit" on the next page to show that the information you have submitted is true and that you want to make the $20 (Australian dollar) payment to submit your application.

7. Enter your credit card information into the form on the next page and select "Authorize payment."

Tips & Warnings

• Paper applications still may be submitted, although they take longer to process.
• Do not lose your reference number. You cannot check your status online without it.

References

• Eta.immi.gov.au

Resources

• Australian Travel Information