What are the formalities and entry requirements for Australia?

Everything you need to know about Australian entry requirements: visas, eTA, eVisitor, length of stay and eligibility.

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Discover all our advice and the information you need to obtain your visa for Australia quickly and online.

The eTA/eVisitor system for Australia Find out how eTA and eVisitor work and how to use these visa exemptions to travel to Australia.
Passport requirements Make sure your passport is valid to obtain a visa or travel authorisation and to travel to Australia with the list of conditions to be met.
eTA or eVisitor member countries Test your eligibility for visa-free travel to Australia and find out when to apply for an eTA or eVisitor.
Detailed procedure Find out more about the online eTA or eVisitor application procedure and our advice on how to complete the form correctly.
Validity of your tourist visa Before renewing your tourist visa, find out how long it is valid and how long you can stay.
Deadline and urgent procedure Find out how long it takes to obtain an eTA or eVisitor authorisation, urgent applications and our advice on how to apply in good time.

Australia offers a multitude of unique experiences, whether exploring the Great Barrier Reef, discovering the fascinating Aboriginal culture, or enjoying the breathtaking natural landscapes. We want you to enjoy these experiences to the full by making sure your entry requirements are simple and efficient. Whether you're a tourist looking to discover Australia's treasures, a student looking for an educational experience, or a professional looking to work temporarily in Australia, our site will provide you with all the information you need to make your trip a smooth one. We'll explain how to get your visa online, what types of visas are available, what steps you need to take, and much more.

 

What are the main entry requirements for Australia?

To ensure that your trip to Australia goes smoothly, it's essential to understand the entry requirements, particularly when it comes to visas. Here are the main requirements you need to consider:

  • The Australian visa: Most travellers wishing to visit Australia need to obtain a visa. Australia offers different types of visa depending on your situation, whether you are coming as a tourist, student, temporary worker or for other reasons. One of the most convenient ways to obtain your visa is through the online visa system or eVisitor or eTA.
  • Valid passport: Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Australia. It is recommended that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your intended entry into Australia.
  • Authorised length of stay: Each type of visa has a specific authorised length of stay in Australia. It is essential to respect this period. If you wish to extend your stay, you should consider applying for a visa extension before your current visa expires.
  • Health requirements: Australia may have special health requirements for travellers, including specific vaccinations. Before you leave, check the health requirements in force and make sure you are in compliance.
  • Customs and quarantine: Australia has strict customs and quarantine regulations. It is important to declare all restricted or dutiable items on arrival. Quarantine officers may inspect your luggage to ensure that you are not carrying any prohibited items, such as undeclared food products.

By understanding and complying with these key requirements, you will ensure that your entry into Australia is in full compliance with the country's laws and regulations. For more detailed information on the online visa application process, continue reading the next section of this page.

 

The ETA or eVisitor online visa for Australia: a practical option

To further simplify the process of obtaining a visa for Australia, the country offers two particularly convenient online visa options: the eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) and the eVisitor. These electronic visas are available to travellers of certain nationalities and offer a number of advantages.

  • eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa: The eTA is an electronic travel visa for visitors to Australia on tourist or business trips. It is available to nationals of many countries, including Canada, the United States, Japan, etc. The eTA allows you to stay in Australia for up to three months per entry and is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It allows multiple entries, which means you can travel to Australia as many times as you like during its period of validity.
  • eVisitor visa: The eVisitor is similar to the eTA, but is specifically intended for nationals of the European Union and a few other European countries. It also allows stays of up to three months per entry and is valid for 12 months. Like the eTA, it authorises multiple entries.

 

The different types of visa for Australia

Australia offers a diverse range of visas to meet the specific needs of travellers depending on the reason for their visit. If you are not eligible for the eVisitor or ETA, here are the different visas available:

  • Tourist Visa (subclass 600): This generally allows stays of up to three, six or twelve months, depending on the option chosen.
  • Work Visa (subclass 482): This is also available to Australian employers who wish to hire temporary foreign workers to fill labour shortage positions.
  • Student Visa (subclass 500): This covers various levels of education, from primary to higher education. It also allows students to work during their studies.
  • Holiday Work Visa (subclass 417 and 462): These allow you to work for various employers for a limited period.
  • Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) : This visa is for partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents who wish to join their spouse in Australia.
  • Investor Visa (subclass 188): This visa is for foreign investors who wish to invest in Australia. It offers various sub-classes depending on the planned investment, such as investment in companies, investment in property, etc.

Each type of visa has specific application requirements, conditions of stay and benefits. It is essential to choose the visa that best suits your purpose for travelling to Australia. For more information on the specific requirements and benefits of each visa type, continue reading in the next section of this page.

 

How do I obtain an eTA or eVisitor online for Australia?

Obtaining an eTA or eVisitor visa for Australia is a quick and easy process that you can carry out online. Here are the steps to follow to apply for a visa online:

  • Check your eligibility: Before you start your application, make sure you are eligible for eTA or eVisitor by checking the eligibility criteria on the Australian government website.
  • Complete the application form: Select the option to apply for an eTA or eVisitor, then complete the online application form. You will need to provide personal information such as your name, date of birth, passport number and dates of travel.
  • Checking information: Carefully double-check all the information you have provided to ensure that it is correct.
  • Pay the visa fee: Pay the fee for processing your visa application online using a credit card or other accepted payment method.
  • Wait for confirmation: Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, wait for electronic confirmation that your visa has been approved. This can take from a few minutes to a few days.
  • Print out the confirmation: Once your visa has been approved, print out the electronic confirmation. Keep it with your passport during your trip to Australia.

 

Our tips for a successful trip to Australia

A trip to Australia is an exciting experience, but careful planning can make your stay even more enjoyable. Here are some tips for a successful trip to Australia:

  • Book your accommodation in advance: Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are travelling during the high tourist season, to guarantee availability.
  • Prepare your luggage: Don't forget to take a plug adaptor if necessary, as Australia uses a different electrical voltage.
  • Make sure you have travel insurance: This can cover medical expenses, flight delays, cancellations and other unforeseen events.
  • Respect nature and wildlife: Respect the environment by following conservation rules, avoiding feeding wild animals and staying on designated paths when hiking.
  • Road safety: If you plan to drive in Australia, make sure you are familiar with the local driving rules.
  • Health and hygiene: Make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations before travelling to Australia.