Choose the right visitor visa for tourism, family visits, or short-term business travel.
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – Subclass 601
The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is a fast, electronic visitor visa for eligible passport holders travelling to Australia for tourism or short-term business visitor activities.
While the ETA is designed to be simple, many applications are refused due to eligibility misunderstandings or incorrect travel intentions. We help you confirm eligibility and apply correctly.
What Is the ETA (Subclass 601)?
The ETA (Subclass 601) allows eligible travellers to visit Australia for short stays without lodging a full visitor visa application.
It is available only to passport holders from specific countries and must be applied for outside Australia. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport and does not require a visa label.
How the ETA Application Works
Step 1 — Confirm eligibility
We assess your passport and travel plans to confirm whether the ETA is available to you.
Step 2 — Prepare a genuine visitor application
Even though the ETA is electronic, applicants must still meet genuine visitor requirements.
Step 3 — Submit correctly
Applications are lodged electronically and linked to your passport. Errors can result in refusal or future visa complications.
Important ETA Conditions
The ETA does not allow employment in Australia. Business visitor activities are limited and must align with visitor conditions.
You must comply with stay limits and visa conditions. Breaching conditions can affect future visa applications, including work or permanent visas.
ETA vs Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
While the ETA is faster and simpler, it is not suitable for everyone.
An ETA may not be appropriate if:
• You require a longer stay
• You have complex travel history
• You need to visit for reasons not covered by the ETA
• You have had previous visa refusals
In these cases, a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) may be more suitable.
ETA (Subclass 601) FAQs
Can I apply for this visa while in Australia? Some applicants may apply onshore depending on their current visa and conditions.
Can I work on an ETA?
Extensions are not guaranteed and depend on visa conditions and circumstances.
Can I apply for an ETA while in Australia?
No. You must be outside Australia when applying.
Can I extend my stay on an ETA?
No. Extensions are not available. You must leave Australia before your stay period ends.
How long does processing take?
Processing times can vary based on the country and time of year. Typically, it may take several weeks. To avoid delays, apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Does an ETA lead to permanent residency?
No. The ETA is a temporary visitor visa and does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency.
Not Sure If You’re Eligible for an ETA?
Applying for the wrong visitor visa can result in refusal and impact future travel to Australia. We can assess your eligibility and guide you through the correct visitor visa pathway.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as legal or migration advice. Visa eligibility criteria, policy settings and legislation may change without notice. You should not rely solely on this information to make migration decisions.
For personalised advice, please book a consultation with our Registered Migration Agent.
Registered Migration Agent: Thao Truong (MARN 2518775)
Business: AusMigration Move | 25/23 Chambers Road, Altona North VIC 3025 Australia
AusMigration Move is bound by the Migration Agents Code of Conduct. The Department of Home Affairs is the decision-making authority for all visa applications.