How Do I Get a Visa to Visit Australia?

Australian visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authority before traveling.

If you are planning a trip to Australia, you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), formerly called a visa. The ETA is issued by the Australian government and permits tourists who hold valid U.S. passports to stay in Australia for up to three months. You can apply for an ETA online or your travel agent or other travel service provider can also obtain an ETA on your behalf, according to the Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

Things You'll Need

• Valid passport

Instructions

1. Visit the Australian ETA website and click on the link to apply for an ETA (see Resources).

2. Accept the terms and conditions of the online ETA application process by clicking on the appropriate option at the bottom of the first screen.

3. Enter your nationality, passport number, date of birth, sex, country of birth, passport expiration date and the date that your passport was issued. This information must match the information listed on your passport.

4. Complete the name section of the form. Type your family name, also known as last name, in the first box. Enter your first and middle name under "Given Names."

5. Select the type of ETA you are applying for by selecting "Visitor" from the drop-down box. Click "Yes" after the question asking if you are currently outside Australia.

6. Provide your passport number, nationality and birth date. You must re-enter this information to verify that your passport details are correct.

7. Type your address in the boxes provided and confirm that you are in good health and of good moral character by clicking on the appropriate boxes. Enter the reason for your trip and select a current employment status.

8. Enter your credit card information on the payment screen. Credit cards are the only acceptable form of payment for online applications. In 2010, the application service charge was $20. Click on the box indicating that you agree with terms of the ETA and submit your application.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a copy of the transaction reference number (TRN) sent to you by mail or email after your application is approved and your payment accepted. Applications are usually finalized in less than two weeks, according to the Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

• Because your ETA is an electronic travel document, you will not receive a paper copy of the ETA and will not have to show a visa document when passing through customs. Australian border agencies and airlines can access a computer database to determine your ETA status. It is a good idea to bring your TRN number with you in case of a problem accessing your records.

• An ETA is valid for 12 months from the issue date and can be used for multiple trips to Australia as long as each trip does not exceed three months.

• You may not work in Australia under the terms of your tourist ETA.

References

• Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship: About This Visa
• Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship: General Information
• U.S. Department of State: Australia

Resources

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority: Application