Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601)

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is a visa that allows individuals to visit Australia as often as they wish within a 12-month period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months. It is a temporary visa that can be applied for from outside of Australia, and it requires an eligible passport and the use of the Australian ETA app.

Process

To apply for an ETA, individuals must be outside of Australia during the application process and when the visa is granted. The application can be completed using the Australian ETA app, which requires a mobile device with a camera, near-field communication (NFC) capability, and location services enabled. The app allows applicants to scan their passport, take a photo of themselves, answer relevant questions, pay the service fee, and submit the application.

Processing times for the ETA can vary, but in most cases, applicants will receive an immediate notification of the visa outcome. However, if additional information is required or if there are criminal convictions, the processing time may be longer. It is important to provide accurate information and meet all visa conditions to avoid cancellation or refusal of the ETA.

With this visa, you can...

The ETA allows individuals to travel to Australia for various purposes, including:

• Visiting family or friends
• Going on a holiday or cruise
• Undertaking some business visitor activities

Additionally, individuals can study or train for up to 3 months on the ETA, but if the main purpose of the visit is for studying, it is recommended to apply for a student visa instead. It is important to note that certain activities, such as training at a childcare center or studying to be a doctor, dentist, nurse, or paramedic, may require a different visa and additional health checks.

How long you can stay

The ETA is valid for either 12 months or the period your passport is valid, whichever is shorter. It is a multiple-entry visa, allowing individuals to leave and re-enter Australia as many times as they want while it is valid. Each stay in Australia can last up to 3 months. However, if an individual wants to stay longer than 3 months at a time, they must apply for a different visa that suits their circumstances.

It is important to comply with the visa conditions and obey Australian laws while staying in Australia. If an individual stays for long periods or makes frequent visits, they may be asked about their travel purpose upon re-entry. If found not to be a genuine visitor, the ETA may be cancelled. It is also recommended to have health insurance to cover any unforeseen medical treatment while in Australia.

Applying for another visa

The ETA cannot be extended to stay longer in Australia. If an individual wishes to stay longer, they must apply for a different visa that suits their needs. It is important to explore visa options and apply for the appropriate visa to avoid becoming an unlawful non-citizen and potential removal from Australia.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an ETA, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Hold an eligible passport from countries such as Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (SAR of China), Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, and others (see full list)
• Intend to stay temporarily in Australia and obey all visa conditions and stay periods
• Meet the health requirement, with additional considerations for those entering health care or hospital environments
• Meet the character requirement, with additional considerations for those with criminal convictions
• Have paid back any debt owed to the Australian Government

It is important to provide accurate information during the application process and declare any other passports or names. Australian citizens do not need to apply for an ETA as they have an automatic right of entry.

Conclusion

The Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) provides individuals with the opportunity to visit Australia for various purposes, including tourism, visiting family or friends, and engaging in business visitor activities. It is a temporary visa that allows multiple entries within a 12-month period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and provide accurate information during the application process. It is important to comply with visa conditions and obey Australian laws while staying in Australia. If longer stays are desired, individuals must apply for a different visa that suits their circumstances.