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Australia Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

UK citizens traveling to Australia for tourism or business need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601), applied for online or via the Australian ETA app; the fee is AUD 20, and approval is usually granted within minutes to a few days, valid for multiple visits of up to 3 months each over 1 year.

Guide last updated October 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for the intended period of travel to Australia (an eligible biometric UK passport is required for the ETA app route)
  • A smartphone to use the official Australian ETA app (the easiest application method) or access to the ImmiAccount online system
  • A valid credit or debit card to pay the AUD 20 service fee
  • Health declaration confirming no disqualifying medical conditions
  • Character/criminal history declaration as part of the application
  • No biometrics or in-person appointment required; facial verification is done through the app using the passport chip and a selfie

Visa types

  • Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), subclass 601: for tourism or business visitor purposes, allows multiple entries over a 1-year validity period, with each stay limited to 3 months, fee AUD 20
  • eVisitor (subclass 651): a similar free electronic authorization available to some European passport holders, but UK citizens use the paid ETA (subclass 601) instead
  • Visitor Visa (subclass 600): a traditional visa category for longer stays, medical treatment, or more complex visit purposes, requiring a full application with higher fees

How to apply online

  • Download the official 'Australian ETA' app from the App Store or Google Play, or apply via the Department of Home Affairs website (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au)
  • Scan the passport biometric chip using the app, take a selfie for facial verification, and complete health and character declarations
  • Pay the AUD 20 service fee by credit or debit card
  • Most applications are approved within minutes to a few hours; some are referred for manual processing, which can take several days
  • Approval is electronically linked to the passport - no sticker or stamp is issued; travelers should keep the confirmation email/reference number

Fees & processing time

  • ETA service fee: AUD 20 (approx USD 13, paid online)
  • No additional service agency fee needed when applying directly through the official app or website
  • Total estimated cost: AUD 20
  • Standard processing time: often within minutes via the app; up to a few business days if referred for manual review
  • There is no separate express/priority option, as standard processing is already fast for most applicants

Tips for UK travelers

  • Apply using the official ETA app or the Home Affairs website only - numerous third-party sites charge inflated fees for the same AUD 20 ETA
  • Apply at least a few days before travel, even though approval is often instant, in case of referral for manual checks
  • Common issues: passport details entered that don't match the passport exactly, or a previous visa refusal/criminal history not properly declared
  • The ETA allows stays of up to 3 months per visit within its 1-year validity, so plan longer trips accordingly or consider the Visitor Visa (subclass 600) instead
  • Keep the ETA confirmation email accessible when checking in for flights, as airlines may ask for proof of a valid travel authority

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.