Valid for 12 months
The ETA is valid for 12 months from grant. Multiple entries permitted within that period.
Fastest Visa · Eligible Passports Only
The ETA is Australia's simplest visa. Typically granted within hours.
You hold a US, Canadian, Japanese, Singaporean, or similar passport. You want to fly to Australia for a holiday or business trip. The ETA is the fastest path. But it is limited to specific passports and short stays. For other nationalities, the Subclass 600 Visitor Visa is the main alternative.
Eligible passports
Around 30 countries qualify for the ETA.
Including the United States, Canada, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Brunei, and several others. Citizens of the United Kingdom and most EU countries use the eVisitor (651) instead.
3 months per stay
Each individual stay can be up to 3 months. Tourism or business visitor purposes permitted.
No work, limited study
Cannot work. Can study up to 3 months. For longer study, a student visa is required.
Application process
Online, automated, typically granted within hours.
Apply through the Australian ETA app or through airlines and travel agents. Approval is typically automated. Higher-risk profiles may be referred to a case officer.
Fast and automated
Most ETAs are granted within minutes. Automated screening based on passport, character declarations, and prior visa history.
Modest service fee
The ETA service fee is small compared to most Australian visas. Fees change periodically. Always check the current fee before applying.
When ETA is refused
Applicants with any visa issues (criminal record, previous refusals, past overstays) should consider the Visitor Visa (600) instead, where additional evidence can be provided.
ETA approvals can be affected by a criminal record, previous visa refusals, or past overstays.
Applicants with any visa issues should consider applying for a Visitor Visa (600) instead, where additional evidence can be provided to address concerns. The ETA's automated system does not accept supporting documents.
Common ETA questions
The questions we hear most.
If your ETA is refused or your travel history is complicated, book with Sourabh Aggarwal.
Can I convert an ETA to another visa onshore?
Rarely. Most ETAs carry 8503 (no further stay).
What if my ETA is rejected?
You can apply for a Visitor Visa (600) which allows additional evidence to address whatever triggered the ETA refusal.
Does an ETA allow transit?
Yes, including transit through Australia to other destinations.
Can I renew an ETA?
After the 12 months, you can apply for a new ETA if still eligible. Each application is assessed independently.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.