Australia Tourist Visa
Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) · For Canada citizens
Planning a trip to Australia as a Canadian citizen? Good news: you can get an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) in minutes through the official app. The ETA costs AUD 20 as a service fee and allows multiple visits of up to 3 months each over 12 months. With near-instant approval for most Canadians, Australia is one of the easiest destinations to visit.
Australia Tourist Visa for Canadian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Canada citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Canadian passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Australia
Download and use the official Australian ETA app to apply
You must meet Australian character requirements
Recommended (Optional)
You must be in good health and may need to meet certain health requirements
Evidence you will leave Australia at the end of your stay
Application Process
The Australian ETA application is entirely digital and can be completed in minutes through the official Australian ETA app.1 No embassy visit or paper forms required.
1. Download the Official App
Get the Australian ETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.2 This is the only official method for Canadian citizens to obtain an ETA.
2. Scan Your Passport
Use your phone’s camera to scan the data page of your Canadian passport.1 The app reads the chip in your passport to verify your identity.
3. Take a Selfie
The app uses facial recognition to match your face to your passport photo.1 Remove glasses and hats, and ensure good lighting.
4. Pay the Service Fee
Pay the AUD 20 service charge using a credit or debit card within the app.1
5. Receive Your ETA
Most applications are approved within minutes.1 The ETA is electronically linked to your passport. There is no physical visa or stamp. Simply travel with the same passport you used to apply.
Fees
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ETA Service Charge | AUD $20 | Mandatory fee for app processing |
| Visitor Visa (subclass 600) | AUD $195 | Alternative if ETA not approved |
The ETA has no government visa fee, only the AUD 20 service charge.1 This is one of the lowest visa costs for visiting Australia.
What You Need to Prove
The ETA system automatically assesses your eligibility based on your passport details and declarations.1 You must confirm:
- Genuine visitor intent: You plan to visit for tourism, business visits, or to see family and friends1
- Character requirements: No substantial criminal record or immigration violations1
- Health requirements: You are in good health for travel1
- Temporary stay: You will leave Australia before your authorized stay ends1
Processing Times
The ETA is one of the fastest visas in the world to obtain:
| Scenario | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Standard processing | Minutes |
| Additional checks needed | Up to 12 hours |
| Complex cases | May be referred for manual review |
Most Canadian applicants receive instant approval.2 If the app indicates your application needs further assessment, you may be contacted for additional information or advised to apply through the standard visa process.
After Your ETA is Approved
Once approved, your ETA is electronically linked to your passport number.1 At check-in and Australian border control:
- Airlines automatically verify your ETA before boarding
- Present your passport at Australian immigration
- No visa sticker or printout required
- Answer any questions about your travel plans honestly
At the border, you may be asked to show:
- Return or onward flight bookings
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance details
If Your ETA is Not Approved
If your ETA application is unsuccessful, you can:
- Apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600): This standard visa allows you to provide more documentation and explain any concerns1
- Contact the Department of Home Affairs: Get clarification on why your application was not successful
- Address the issues: If character or health concerns were raised, gather supporting documents
An ETA refusal does not prevent you from applying for other visa types.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Character Concerns
Criminal history, previous visa cancellations, or association with persons of concern can lead to ETA refusal.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about any criminal history. Minor offences may not disqualify you. If you have concerns, apply for a standard Visitor visa instead where you can explain circumstances.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of overstays, visa breaches, or refusals in Australia or other countries raises red flags.
How to avoid: If you have previous immigration issues, apply through the standard visa process and include a letter explaining the circumstances and how things have changed.
Technical Issues
Problems with passport scanning, facial recognition, or app connectivity can cause application failures.
How to avoid: Ensure good lighting and a stable internet connection. If the app fails repeatedly, try again later or use a different device.
Incomplete Information
Application details do not match passport data or information is missing.
How to avoid: Double-check that all details exactly match your passport. The system cross-references data automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Australia?
Yes, but Canadians qualify for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), which is a quick digital visa obtained through a mobile app. It is not visa-free entry, but the process takes only minutes.
How long can I stay in Australia on an ETA?
The ETA allows stays of up to 3 months (90 days) per visit. You can make multiple visits within the 12-month validity period, but you cannot live in Australia through successive visits.
How long does the Australian ETA take to process?
Most ETA applications are approved within minutes. In rare cases where additional checks are needed, it may take up to 12 hours or longer. The app will notify you when approved.
Can I work in Australia on an ETA?
No, the ETA does not permit work. However, you can engage in business visitor activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts. For work, you need a different visa.
What if my ETA application is not approved instantly?
If your application requires additional processing, the system will notify you. You may be asked to provide more information or apply through the standard visa process instead of the app.
Can I extend my stay beyond 3 months?
You cannot extend an ETA while in Australia. If you want to stay longer, you may need to apply for a different visa type, such as the Visitor visa (subclass 600), before your ETA expires.
Is the Australian ETA free?
The ETA itself has no government visa fee, but there is a mandatory AUD 20 service charge when applying through the official app. This covers the processing costs.
What happens if my ETA is refused?
If refused, you will be notified with the reasons. You can then apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through the standard application process, which allows you to provide more supporting documentation.