Australia Electronic Travel Authority
Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) · For United States citizens
Planning a trip to Australia as an American citizen? The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) makes entry simple. Apply through the official Australian ETA app, pay the AUD $20 service fee, and receive approval within minutes. The ETA allows multiple entries over 12 months with stays up to 3 months each visit. No embassy appointments or extensive documentation required.
Australia ETA for US Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For United States citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your US passport must be valid and NFC-enabled for scanning through the Australian ETA app
Download the official Australian ETA app to submit your application
Take a live selfie photo during the application process in the ETA app
Credit or debit card to pay the AUD $20 service fee
You must declare any criminal convictions during the application process
You must meet Australian health requirements and not pose a risk to public health
What is the Australian ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is an electronic authorization that allows US citizens to travel to Australia for tourism, business visits, or short-term study.1 It is not a traditional visa with a stamp or sticker. Instead, it is linked digitally to your passport and verified electronically when you travel.
US passport holders are among 34 nationalities eligible for the ETA.3 This streamlined process means you can obtain travel authorization in minutes without visiting an embassy, submitting extensive documentation, or attending interviews.
Application Process
The ETA application is completed entirely through the official Australian ETA app:1
1. Download the Official App
Get the Australian ETA app from the Apple App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android). The app is free to download. Only use the official government app to avoid scams and inflated fees.2
2. Scan Your Passport
Open the app and use your phone’s NFC capability to scan the chip in your US passport. Position the phone on the inside back cover where the chip is embedded. The app will extract your passport details automatically.
3. Take a Live Photo
The app will prompt you to take a selfie photo. This must be a live image taken in the app, not an uploaded photo. Ensure good lighting and remove glasses or head coverings.
4. Answer Questions
Provide your contact details, email address, and answer questions about:
- Criminal history in any country
- Other passports you hold
- Previous names you have used
- Travel purpose
5. Pay the Fee
The AUD $20 service fee is payable by credit or debit card within the app. This is the only fee for ETA applications.1
6. Receive Your ETA
Most applications receive an instant decision. You will see the result in the app and receive email confirmation. If approved, your ETA is immediately linked to your passport.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| ETA Service Fee | AUD $20 (approximately USD $13) |
| Visa Application Charge | None |
The AUD $20 fee is the only cost when using the official Australian ETA app.1 Be wary of third-party websites that charge significantly higher fees for the same service.
Important: The fee is non-refundable even if your ETA is refused.
What You Can Do on an ETA
The ETA permits several types of activities during your stay:15
Tourism:
- Sightseeing and holiday travel
- Cruises departing from and returning to Australia
- Visiting family and friends
- Attending events and festivals
Business Visitor Activities:
- Attending meetings and conferences
- Negotiating contracts
- Making business inquiries
- Participating in trade fairs (without being paid)
Short-term Study:
- Courses or training up to 3 months total
- Not as your main purpose for visiting
You Cannot:
- Work for an Australian employer
- Provide services to Australian businesses
- Sell goods directly to the public
- Undertake paid or unpaid work of any kind
Processing Times
ETA processing is typically instant:1
| Scenario | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard applications | Immediate (within minutes) |
| Additional verification needed | 1-3 business days |
| Complex cases | May take longer |
If your application requires additional processing, you will be notified. Do not make travel arrangements until your ETA is confirmed.
Why some applications take longer:
- Information is difficult to verify
- Previous immigration history requires review
- Answers to questions require clarification
- Technical issues with the application
Validity and Entry
Once granted, your ETA has the following conditions:1
Validity Period: 12 months from the date granted, or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
Entry Type: Multiple entries allowed during the validity period
Maximum Stay: Up to 3 months (90 days) per entry
Re-entry: You can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you want within the 12-month validity. Each entry allows a fresh 3-month stay period.
Important: If you stay in Australia for extended periods or make frequent visits, border officers may question whether you are a genuine visitor.1
At the Australian Border
When you arrive in Australia:1
1. Complete the Incoming Passenger Card
All arriving travelers must complete this form, declaring any goods and providing accommodation details.
2. Use SmartGate (if available)
Many Australian airports have automated SmartGate kiosks. US passport holders can often use these for faster processing. The system uses facial recognition to verify your identity and ETA.
3. Traditional Border Control
If SmartGate is not available or you prefer manual processing, proceed to a border officer who will verify your passport and ETA electronically.
What to Have Ready:
- Valid US passport (the same one used for ETA)
- Return or onward travel arrangements
- Evidence of accommodation in Australia
- Proof of sufficient funds if requested
Border officers can refuse entry even with a valid ETA if they have concerns about your intentions or circumstances.
If Your ETA is Refused
If your ETA application cannot be approved:1
Do Not Reapply via the App
Submitting additional ETA applications will produce the same result. The system will continue to flag the same issues.
Apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
This is the appropriate pathway if your ETA is refused. The Subclass 600 visa allows you to:
- Submit supporting documentation
- Provide evidence about any concerns (criminal history, health)
- Explain your circumstances in detail
The Subclass 600 visa costs AUD $190 and has longer processing times, but it accommodates applicants who cannot obtain an ETA.
Common Reasons for Refusal:
- Criminal convictions (even minor or old offenses)
- Health conditions that may require assessment
- Previous immigration violations
- Incomplete or incorrect information in the application
Comparing ETA vs. Visitor Visa
| Feature | ETA (Subclass 601) | Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | AUD $20 | AUD $190-$405 |
| Processing | Usually instant | 2-5 weeks |
| Application | Mobile app only | Online via ImmiAccount |
| Documentation | Minimal | Comprehensive |
| Criminal history | Not suitable | Can apply with documentation |
| Maximum stay | 3 months | 3, 6, or 12 months |
Most American travelers without complications should use the ETA. The Visitor Visa is for those who need longer stays or have circumstances that prevent ETA approval.
Travel Tips for Americans Visiting Australia
Before You Go:
- Apply for your ETA at least a few days before travel (even though it is usually instant)
- Do not book non-refundable travel until your ETA is confirmed
- Check your passport has at least 6 months validity for smoother border processing
- Ensure your passport chip is readable by testing the ETA app scan
During Your Stay:
- Keep track of your 90-day limit
- Do not overstay under any circumstances
- Keep a copy of your ETA approval notification
- Have accommodation and return flight details accessible
Entry Points:
- All major Australian airports accept ETA travelers
- Cruise passengers arriving by sea also need an ETA
- Your visa status is checked at embarkation by cruise lines
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Criminal History
Applicants with criminal convictions, including minor offenses, may have their ETA refused or require manual processing
How to avoid: If you have any criminal record, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) instead. The ETA is designed for applicants with clean records only.
Health Concerns
Serious health conditions, particularly communicable diseases like tuberculosis, can lead to ETA refusal
How to avoid: Apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) if you have significant health concerns. This allows you to submit health documentation and undergo required examinations.
Previous Immigration Issues
Prior visa refusals, overstays, or breaches of immigration conditions in Australia or other countries
How to avoid: Be honest about previous immigration issues. If you have a history of overstays or refusals, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) with supporting documentation explaining your circumstances.
Application Errors
Incorrect information, mismatched details between passport and application, or technical issues during submission
How to avoid: Double-check all information matches your passport exactly. Ensure your passport chip scans correctly before submitting.
Incomplete Declaration
Failure to accurately answer questions about criminal history, other passports held, or previous names
How to avoid: Answer all questions truthfully and completely. Declare all passports you hold and any previous names you have been known by.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Americans need a visa for Australia?
Americans need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to visit Australia. The ETA is a quick, electronic authorization obtained through the official Australian ETA app. It is not a traditional visa but serves the same purpose.
How do I apply for an Australian ETA as a US citizen?
Download the free Australian ETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Scan your passport chip, take a live photo, answer the questions, and pay the AUD $20 fee. Most approvals are instant.
How long does the Australia ETA take to process?
Most ETA applications are approved within minutes of submission. Some applications may require additional processing and can take up to a few days. You will receive notification via the app and email.
How much does the Australian ETA cost for Americans?
The service fee is AUD $20 (approximately USD $13). There is no additional visa application charge. This is the only fee when applying through the official Australian ETA app.
How long can I stay in Australia on an ETA?
You can stay up to 3 months (90 days) per visit. The ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of grant, allowing multiple entries during that period. Each entry allows a maximum stay of 3 months.
Can I work in Australia on an ETA?
No. The ETA does not permit any work, including remote work for US employers. You cannot be employed by or provide services to Australian businesses. Violation can result in visa cancellation and removal from Australia.
What if my ETA application is refused?
If your ETA is refused, you can apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) through ImmiAccount. This visa allows you to submit supporting documents and address any concerns. Do not resubmit multiple ETA applications as you will receive the same result.
Can I extend my ETA while in Australia?
No, the ETA cannot be extended. If you want to stay longer than 3 months, you must apply for a different visa (such as Subclass 600) before your ETA expires. You cannot change from tourist purposes to work or study on an ETA.
What happens if I have a criminal record?
Applicants with criminal convictions should not apply for an ETA. Instead, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) where you can provide evidence about your criminal convictions and demonstrate you meet character requirements.
Do I need the ETA app on my phone when traveling?
No. Once approved, your ETA is linked electronically to your passport. Airlines and Australian border officials can verify your ETA using your passport number. Keep your approval notification for reference but the app is not needed at the airport.
What activities can I do on an ETA?
You can visit as a tourist (sightseeing, cruises, visiting family and friends), conduct business visitor activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations), and study or train for up to 3 months. You cannot work or provide services.
How do I check my ETA status?
Check your ETA status in the Australian ETA app using the 'Visa check' function, or online through VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) at the Australian immigration website using your passport details.