The United Kingdom is one of the 8 countries whose nationals are eligible for Australian ETA. This means UK citizens can enter Australia without a traditional Australian visa!
The Australian government has set different visa policies for different countries. While New Zealand citizens can enter the country visa-free, all other foreign nationals are required to have a valid travel document to enter Australia.
In this article, we have mentioned everything you need to know about Australian ETA and how to apply for one!
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) - An Overview
Before you enter a foreign country, the most important thing you need is a valid visa. Australia offers different types of visas for different purposes, such as tourist visa, business visa, transit visa, working holiday visa, and so on. In addition, the Australian government has recently started the visa waiver program by introducing the electronic travel authority (ETA).
An ETA is a travel document that permits holders to enter Australia without a traditional visa. It is designed to make the visa application process simple and convenient.
While applicants were required to visit the Australian embassy to get a paper visa, they can now apply for an ETA from the comfort of their homes. No need to visit the embassy or consulate office. No need to follow complicated steps. You don’t even have to schedule an appointment for a visa interview.
Validity Period
An Australia ETA is a multiple entry travel document that stays valid for 1 year. It allows holders to stay in the country for 90 consecutive days without a visa. An ETA is valid for both tourism and business purposes, such as:
Visiting family members or friends
Meeting with business associates
Exploring the country
Attending seminars or conferences
Eligibility Criteria
To apply online for an ETA, applicants are required to fulfill some character and health requirements. These requirements are set and enforced by the Immigration Department Of Home Affairs to protect Australian residents. The eligibility criteria for an ETA are as follows:
Applicants must have good character supported by an official document.
They must not have a criminal record.
They must not have a disease that can affect the general public.
They must not require community or health care services at the cost of Australian citizens.
They must not be traveling to harass or hurt someone else.
If you fulfill all these requirements, you can apply for an ETA online. Otherwise, you'll need to get traditional Australian visas by visiting the VisaHQ!
Australia ETA Requirements
Before you start the ETA application process, there are a few things you'll need to have to complete the ETA application process, such as:
Valid Passport - Applicant's passport that has at least 3 months of remaining validity as well as 2 blank pages for stamps.
E-mail Address - Your email address will be electronically linked to your passport. Upon approval, you'll receive your travel documents via email. So, make sure to use a valid and active email address.
Online Payment Method - You're required to pay both the embassy fee as well as the visa service fee. As this entire process is streamlined, you'll need online payment methods, such as a debit card or a credit card.
These are the most basic documents required to apply for an ETA. Besides these, applicants might need to provide some additional documents depending on their purpose of visit.
How to Apply for an ETA from the United Kingdom?
Compared to a traditional Australia visa, an ETA is more convenient and faster. You don’t need to visit the Australian embassy and waste an entire day. All you need is your smartphone and a stable internet connection.
To apply online for an ETA, UK passport holders are required to follow the following simple steps:
Download the "Australian ETA" app on your smartphone
Log in with your valid credentials
Fill out the ETA application form
Pay the visa application fee
Submit your online form with supporting documents
That's it! Afterward, the Australian embassy will process your application, and you'll get your approved ETA via email!
While filling out the visa application form, you need to be extra careful. This is because if there are errors or mistakes in your application, your ETA will more likely be delayed. Therefore, it's recommended to double-check the provided information prior to submitting your online ETA application form!
Processing Time
The processing time for an Australia ETA varies from applicant to applicant. The estimated processing time for electronic travel authorization is 3-5 business days.
That being said, if there are errors or mistakes in your application, you may have to wait a little longer. Therefore, it's recommended to apply for an ETA at least 2 weeks prior to the intended departure date!