United States ESTA / B1/B2 Visa
Electronic System for Travel Authorization / B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Australia citizens
Planning a trip to the USA as an Australian citizen? Australians can travel visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program using ESTA for stays up to 90 days. ESTA costs US$21 and is approved within minutes. For longer stays or multiple purposes, the B1/B2 visa costs US$185 and requires an embassy interview.
USA Travel Authorisation for Australian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Australia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Australian passport must be valid and meet US requirements
Complete the online ESTA application for visa-free travel up to 90 days
Evidence of intent to leave the US within 90 days
Recommended (Optional)
Evidence you can support yourself during your stay
ESTA vs B1/B2 Visa: Which Do You Need?
As an Australian citizen, you have two options for visiting the USA:12
| Feature | ESTA (Visa Waiver) | B1/B2 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | US$21 | US$185 |
| Processing | Minutes | 2-4 weeks |
| Max stay | 90 days | Up to 180 days |
| Extensions | Not possible | Can request extension |
| Interview | None | Required |
| Valid for | 2 years | Up to 10 years |
Choose ESTA if: You’re visiting for tourism or business for less than 90 days.
Choose B1/B2 visa if: You need more than 90 days, want the option to extend, or are ineligible for ESTA.
ESTA Application Process
The ESTA process is quick and entirely online:1
1. Visit the Official Website
Only apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Avoid third-party websites that charge inflated fees.1
2. Create an Application
Select “New Application” and choose individual or group application.1
3. Enter Your Information
Provide your passport details, contact information, travel plans, and employment details.1
4. Answer Eligibility Questions
Answer yes/no questions about criminal history, previous visa denials, and travel to certain countries. Answer honestly.1
5. Pay the Fee
Pay US$21 using a credit or debit card.1
6. Receive Authorization
Most applications receive instant approval. Check your status if “Authorization Pending.”1
B1/B2 Visa Application Process
If you need a visa, the process involves:4
1. Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application at ceac.state.gov.4
2. Pay the Application Fee
Pay US$185 (non-refundable).4
3. Schedule an Interview
Book an appointment at the US Embassy in Canberra or Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth.3
4. Attend the Interview
Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, and supporting documents. Be prepared to explain your travel plans and ties to Australia.4
5. Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks after the interview.4
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| ESTA Application | US$21 |
| B1/B2 Visa Application | US$185 |
| Visa Integrity Fee (if applicable) | US$250 |
Note: A US$250 visa integrity fee may apply to certain visa applications in 2025.4
What You Can Do
With ESTA/B1/B2, you can:2
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visit family and friends
- Attend business meetings and conferences
- Negotiate contracts
- Attend short-term training (no academic credit)
- Receive medical treatment
- Participate in amateur sports events
You cannot:2
- Work or be employed
- Study for academic credit
- Be paid for performances
- Represent foreign media
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| ESTA | Usually instant, up to 72 hours |
| B1/B2 Visa (after interview) | 2-4 weeks typically |
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before travel. For B1/B2 visas, apply well in advance as interview wait times vary.14
At the US Border
Having an approved ESTA or visa doesn’t guarantee entry. At the border, CBP officers may ask about:2
- Purpose of your visit
- Length of stay
- Where you’ll be staying
- Return travel plans
- Financial resources
Be prepared with:
- Return ticket confirmation
- Hotel or accommodation details
- Evidence of ties to Australia
- Proof of funds if requested
After Arrival
ESTA travelers: Your 90 days starts on entry. You cannot extend this. Brief trips to Canada or Mexico don’t reset your 90 days.2
B1/B2 visa holders: The officer stamps your passport with your permitted stay (typically up to 180 days). You may apply for an extension if needed.4
If You’re Denied Entry
If ESTA is denied before travel, apply for a B1/B2 visa.1
If denied entry at the border:
- You may be given “expedited removal” and returned to Australia
- This can affect future US travel
- Seek legal advice before your next application
An ESTA denial doesn’t automatically mean a visa will be denied. With a visa application, you can provide documentation and explain your circumstances.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Previous Visa Overstay
History of overstaying in the US or violations of the Visa Waiver Program will result in ESTA denial.
How to avoid: If you've previously overstayed, apply for a B1/B2 visa where you can explain the circumstances.
Criminal History
Certain criminal convictions, including drug offenses and crimes of moral turpitude, disqualify you from ESTA.
How to avoid: Answer eligibility questions honestly. Apply for a visa if you have any criminal history.
Travel to Certain Countries
Travel to designated countries (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya, North Korea) may affect eligibility.
How to avoid: If you've visited these countries, you may still qualify for a visa with proper documentation.
Dual Nationality Issues
Dual nationals of certain countries may be ineligible for the Visa Waiver Program.
How to avoid: Check your eligibility based on all your nationalities. You may need to apply for a visa instead.
Application Errors
Incorrect information or typos in passport details can cause denial.
How to avoid: Triple-check all information matches your passport exactly before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa to visit the USA?
For stays up to 90 days, Australians can travel visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with an approved ESTA. For longer stays or specific purposes, you need a B1/B2 visa.
What is ESTA and how much does it cost?
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a pre-screening requirement for visa-free travel to the USA. It costs US$21 and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
How long does ESTA approval take?
Most ESTA applications are approved within minutes. However, CBP recommends applying at least 72 hours before travel in case additional processing is needed.
Can I stay longer than 90 days with ESTA?
No, ESTA strictly limits stays to 90 days. You cannot extend an ESTA stay. If you need more than 90 days, apply for a B1/B2 visa before travelling.
What is the difference between ESTA and B1/B2 visa?
ESTA allows visa-free travel for up to 90 days and costs US$21. The B1/B2 visa costs US$185, requires an interview, but allows stays up to 180 days and can be extended.
Can I work in the USA with ESTA?
No, ESTA does not permit any form of employment. You can attend business meetings, conferences, and negotiations, but cannot work. For employment, you need a work visa.
What if my ESTA is denied?
If denied, you must apply for a B1/B2 visa at a US embassy. ESTA denial doesn't mean visa denial. You can provide additional documentation with a visa application.
How many times can I visit the USA with ESTA?
ESTA allows multiple entries during its 2-year validity. However, spending too much time in the USA may raise concerns about your intent to return home.