United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorisation
UK ETA · For Australia citizens
Planning a trip to the UK as an Australian citizen? Good news: you don't need a visa. As of January 2025, Australians require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing just £16. Processing takes minutes, and the ETA allows multiple entries for up to 6 months per visit over 2 years.
UK Travel Authorisation for Australian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Australia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Australian passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK
Complete the ETA application via the UK ETA app or online portal
A recent digital photograph meeting UK requirements
A working email address to receive your ETA confirmation
What is the UK ETA?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital pre-travel screening requirement for visa-exempt nationals, including Australians.1 It’s not a visa, but a permission to travel to the UK that must be obtained before departure.
Since January 8, 2025, all Australian citizens must have an approved ETA before travelling to the UK for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, or transit.1
Application Process
Applying for a UK ETA is straightforward and entirely online:1
1. Download the UK ETA App or Visit the Website
The fastest way is through the UK ETA app (available on iOS and Android). You can also apply at gov.uk.1
2. Scan Your Passport
Use your phone to scan the photo page of your Australian passport. The app reads the chip if your passport has one.1
3. Take a Photo
Use the in-app camera to take a selfie for identity verification.1
4. Answer Security Questions
Provide basic information including travel history and answer standard security questions.1
5. Pay the Fee
Pay the £16 application fee using a debit or credit card.2
6. Receive Your ETA
Most applications are approved within minutes. Your ETA confirmation is sent to your email.2
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| UK ETA Application | £16 |
The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused.1 There are no additional service charges, priority options, or visa application centre fees.
What You Can Do With an ETA
The ETA permits you to:1
- Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting attractions, holiday travel
- Visiting family and friends: Staying with relatives or friends
- Business activities: Meetings, conferences, negotiations, training
- Short-term study: Courses up to 6 months (no academic credit)
- Transit: Passing through the UK to another destination
What You Cannot Do
The ETA does not permit:1
- Paid or unpaid work of any kind
- Long-term study leading to qualifications
- Living in the UK
- Accessing public healthcare (except emergencies)
- Getting married without additional permission
Processing Times
| Scenario | Time |
|---|---|
| Standard processing | Within minutes |
| Applications requiring review | Up to 3 working days |
| Complex cases | May take longer |
The UK government recommends applying at least 3 working days before travel.2 Do not book non-refundable travel until your ETA is approved.
After Your ETA is Approved
Your approved ETA is digitally linked to your passport. You don’t need to print anything, but you may wish to save the confirmation email.1
At the UK border, your ETA status is checked automatically when your passport is scanned. You may still be asked about:
- Purpose of your visit
- Where you’re staying
- How long you plan to stay
- Proof of return travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds
If Your ETA is Refused
ETA refusals for Australians are uncommon. If refused, you have several options:1
- Reapply: If the refusal was due to an error, correct it and submit a new application
- Apply for a Standard Visitor Visa: This allows you to provide supporting documents and explain your circumstances
- Seek advice: Contact a UK immigration adviser if you’re unsure why you were refused
A refusal does not ban you from the UK. You may still be eligible for a visa with proper documentation.
ETA vs Standard Visitor Visa
| Feature | UK ETA | Standard Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £16 | £127+ |
| Processing | Minutes | 3+ weeks |
| Validity | 2 years | Up to 10 years |
| Max stay per visit | 6 months | 6 months |
| Application | Online only | Online + biometrics |
| Documents needed | Passport only | Full documentation |
Most Australians only need the ETA. Apply for a visa if you have circumstances that might complicate travel, such as a criminal record or previous immigration issues.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Criminal History
Applicants with certain criminal convictions may be refused an ETA and directed to apply for a visa instead.
How to avoid: If you have a criminal record, consider applying for a Standard Visitor Visa where you can explain your circumstances.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstaying or violating immigration rules in the UK or other countries can lead to refusal.
How to avoid: Be honest in your application. Previous issues don't automatically mean refusal if circumstances have changed.
Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Errors in passport details, name spelling, or other information can cause delays or refusal.
How to avoid: Double-check all information matches your passport exactly before submitting.
Security Concerns
Applications flagged for additional security screening may take longer or be refused.
How to avoid: If your application takes longer than expected, wait for the review to complete rather than reapplying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australian citizens need a visa to visit the UK?
No, Australians do not need a visa for tourist visits up to 6 months. However, as of January 8, 2025, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. The ETA costs £16 and allows multiple entries over 2 years.
How long does the UK ETA take to process?
Most ETA applications are approved within minutes. However, the UK government recommends applying at least 3 working days before travel in case your application requires additional review.
How long can Australians stay in the UK?
The ETA allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. You can make multiple visits during the 2-year validity period, but you cannot live in the UK through frequent visits.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No, the ETA does not permit any paid or unpaid work. You can attend business meetings, conferences, and negotiations, but cannot take employment. For work purposes, you need a work visa.
What if my ETA is refused?
If refused, you will be informed of the reason. You may be able to reapply or apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead. Refusals are rare for Australian citizens.
Do children need an ETA?
Yes, every traveller including children needs their own ETA linked to their own passport.
Can I extend my stay beyond 6 months?
Generally, you cannot extend a visit. You must leave before your permitted stay ends. For longer stays, you need to apply for an appropriate visa before travelling.
Is the ETA the same as a visa?
No, the ETA is a pre-travel screening requirement, not a visa. It confirms you can travel to the UK but does not guarantee entry. Border officers make the final decision on admission.