Visit Australia from UK with an ETA or Free eVisitor

 

Quick answer: Yes. Most people travelling to Australia ETA need a valid visa or travel authority before departure. If you hold a British Citizen passport and are travelling from UK for a holiday, to visit family or for permitted short business activities, you may be eligible for either the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) or the eVisitor visa (subclass 651). The ETA has an AUD 20 app service charge, while the eVisitor is free. Both generally allow multiple visits over 12 months, with a stay of up to three months on each arrival.

Your eligibility depends on the passport you hold, not simply where you live. For example, an Indian citizen living in London does not become eligible for an Australian ETA or eVisitor simply by having UK residence. They may need to consider a different visa, such as the Visitor visa (subclass 600).

This guide explains the Australia ETA visa for UK citizens, the difference between ETA and eVisitor, application steps, costs, processing times, validity, passport requirements and alternative visa options. It also explains what to consider if you want to work, study or stay in Australia for longer than a short visit.

Do UK Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Australia?

Yes. British citizens need an appropriate Australian visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia. A British passport does not provide visa-free entry to Australia. However, British Citizen passport holders are eligible to apply for streamlined visitor options if they meet the relevant requirements.

For a typical short holiday, family visit or permitted business visit, the two main options are:

• ETA subclass 601: An electronic travel authority applied for through the official Australian ETA app. The app has an AUD 20 service charge.
• eVisitor subclass 651: A free electronic visa application available to eligible passport holders, including British Citizen passport holders.

Both visas are electronically linked to the passport used in the application. You do not normally receive a visa sticker or physical label in your passport. Airlines and Australian authorities can check your visa status electronically.

It is important to understand that an ETA or eVisitor is not a general permission to live or work in Australia. These are temporary visitor options with specific conditions. If your intention is to take up employment, enrol in a longer course or relocate permanently, you should investigate a visa designed for that purpose.

Which Australian visa should a UK traveller consider?

The right visa depends on your nationality, travel purpose, intended length of stay and personal circumstances. A British Citizen travelling for a two-week holiday may be eligible for the ETA or eVisitor. Someone planning to spend several months with family, undertake a longer visit or address a previous visa refusal may need to consider a different route.

Before applying, check the current requirements on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. You can review the official ETA subclass 601 information and eVisitor subclass 651 information.

What Is the Australia ETA Visa (Subclass 601)?

The Australian Electronic Travel Authority, commonly called the Australia ETA, is an electronic travel authority that allows eligible passport holders to travel to Australia for approved short-term visitor activities. It is linked electronically to the passport used in the application.

There is no need to collect a visa label from an Australian embassy or send your passport away for a physical sticker. Once an ETA is granted, the travel authority is recorded electronically. You should nevertheless keep your grant notification and application details for your records.

Some travellers search online for an Australia ESTA or an ESTA for Australia from UK. These searches usually refer to the Australian ETA. ESTA is the name of the United States travel authorisation system; Australia’s relevant visitor option is called the Electronic Travel Authority, or ETA.

What can you do on an Australian ETA?

Subject to the visa conditions and the rules for business visitor activities, an ETA can be used for purposes such as:

• Taking a holiday in Australia.
• Visiting relatives, friends or family members.
• Going sightseeing and visiting Australian cities or tourist attractions.
• Attending business meetings or negotiations.
• Taking part in conferences, trade fairs or professional events where the activities are permitted under visitor rules.
• Exploring Australia before deciding whether to pursue a longer-term visa pathway.

Business visitor activities do not mean taking an Australian job. An ETA is not a work visa, and you must not use it to undertake employment in Australia. If you intend to work, you should explore an appropriate work or skilled visa before travelling.

What can you not do on an ETA?

An ETA is intended for temporary visits. It does not provide general permission to work or settle in Australia. You should not assume that having an ETA means you can:

• Take up paid employment with an Australian employer.
• Work in a role that requires a work visa.
• Remain in Australia beyond the permitted stay period.
• Use repeated visitor trips as a substitute for a visa that allows residence.
• Study for longer than the study permission attached to the relevant visitor visa allows.

If your plans change after you receive an ETA, check the visa rules before taking action. A visitor visa should not be treated as an automatic route to employment or permanent residence.

 

Who Is Eligible for an Australia ETA from UK?

 

ETA eligibility is based on the passport you hold. Living in UK, having indefinite leave to remain or holding a UK residence permit does not by itself make you eligible for an Australian ETA.

British Citizen passport holders are among the nationalities eligible to apply for an ETA. Other nationalities may also qualify, depending on the Australian Government’s current ETA-eligible passport list.

British Citizen passport holders

If you hold a valid British Citizen passport, you may be eligible for both the ETA subclass 601 and the eVisitor subclass 651, provided you meet the relevant requirements. This gives many UK holidaymakers a choice between the app-based ETA and the free online eVisitor.

British National (Overseas) and other British passport types

Not all British passport categories are treated in the same way. The eVisitor eligibility rules specifically distinguish a British Citizen passport from other British nationality categories. A British National (Overseas) passport is not included in the eVisitor eligible passport list. Some other British passport holders may be eligible for an ETA, but they must check the current ETA passport requirements rather than assume eligibility.

Always identify the exact passport type printed on your travel document. The phrase “British passport” can refer to different nationality categories, and the distinction can affect which application route is available.

Can Indian citizens living in UK apply for an Australian ETA?

Usually, no. An Indian citizen who lives, works or studies in UK does not become eligible for an ETA or eVisitor solely because they are a UK resident. Australian visitor visa eligibility is generally determined by nationality and passport type, alongside other application requirements.

If you hold an Indian passport and want to visit Australia from UK, you may need to apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600). The appropriate application route will depend on your circumstances, including your travel purpose, finances, immigration history and supporting documents.

Does every eligible passport holder automatically receive an ETA?

No. Being from an ETA-eligible country means you may apply; it does not guarantee approval or entry to Australia. Applicants must provide accurate information and meet the relevant health, character and other requirements. Australian authorities can assess an application and may refer it for additional checks.

How to Apply for an Australia ETA from UK

Eligible applicants must use the official Australian ETA app to apply for an ETA. The process is digital and generally involves verifying your passport, completing identity checks and answering the application questions.

Step 1: Download the official Australian ETA app

Find the Australian ETA app through the official app store on your mobile device. Check that you are downloading the genuine Australian Government application rather than a third-party service using a similar name.

Be careful with search advertisements and unofficial websites that offer to submit an ETA application for an additional fee. They may charge for assistance that you can obtain directly through the official application channel.

Step 2: Check your passport

Use the passport that you intend to travel with. Check that it is valid and that your personal details are clear and accurate. Your ETA is electronically connected to the passport details used in the application.

If you have more than one passport, make sure you select the passport that makes you eligible for the visa and that you will actually use for travel. Do not enter details from one passport and then attempt to board using another without checking the applicable rules.

Step 3: Scan your passport chip

The ETA app may ask you to scan the electronic chip in your e-passport using your phone’s Near Field Communication (NFC) function. Follow the on-screen instructions and position the phone as directed. If the scan does not work, check that your phone supports NFC and that you are following the app’s instructions.

Step 4: Complete the identity check

The application process includes identity verification. You may be asked to take a live photograph or selfie and follow other instructions in the app. Make sure the photograph is clear and that your face is visible.

Step 5: Answer the application questions accurately

Read every question carefully. The app may ask about your identity, travel plans, health, character and other relevant matters. Disclose information truthfully, including details about previous names, other passports and criminal history where requested.

Do not leave out information because you think it may affect the decision. Incorrect or incomplete answers can create problems, including delays, cancellation or refusal. If you are unsure how a question applies to your circumstances, obtain appropriate advice before submitting the application.

Step 6: Pay the ETA app service charge

The Australian Government lists an AUD 20 service charge for using the ETA app. This is an app service charge rather than a separate visa application charge. Check the amount displayed in the official app before payment, as government charges and payment arrangements can change.

Step 7: Wait for the decision

In many cases, the ETA application decision is provided immediately. Some applications may require additional assessment, so an immediate decision is not guaranteed. Check your application status and wait for confirmation that the ETA has been granted before travelling.

Step 8: Travel using the same passport

After approval, travel with the passport linked to your ETA. Check that your name, passport number and other details are correct. If you receive a new passport after the ETA is granted, you should not assume that the old ETA will transfer automatically.

Australia ETA Cost: How Much Is an ETA for Australia?

The official Australian ETA app has an AUD 20 service charge. The Department of Home Affairs states that there is no other charge payable for the ETA itself. The amount is charged in Australian dollars, so the final amount shown by your card provider in pounds may vary according to the exchange rate and any bank or card fees.

Travellers often search for “Australia ETA price”, “how much is an Australian ETA” or “ETA visa Australia cost”. The key distinction is between the ETA app service charge and the cost of other Australian visitor visas.

Is the Australian ETA visa free?

The ETA has no separate visa application charge, but the official app service charge is AUD 20. Therefore, it is not completely free to apply for an ETA through the app.

The eVisitor subclass 651 is different: it is free to apply for eligible passport holders. If you hold a British Citizen passport and meet the requirements for both options, compare the application methods and choose the one that suits your circumstances.

Beware of unofficial ETA websites

Some commercial websites advertise Australian ETA assistance and charge extra service fees. These services are not the Australian Government. Paying a third party does not guarantee faster approval or a more favourable decision.

To reduce the risk of paying unnecessary fees:

• Use the official Australian ETA app for an ETA application.
• Use the Department of Home Affairs website to access the eVisitor application.
• Check the website address before entering passport or payment details.
• Be cautious of claims promising guaranteed approval or instant visa grants.
• Keep your application reference and grant notification.

How Long Does an Australian ETA Take to Process?

Many ETA applications are decided immediately through the Australian ETA app. However, this is not a guaranteed processing time for every applicant. Some applications may be referred for further checks or require additional information, which can extend the waiting period.

People commonly search for “how long does an Australian ETA take”, “how long does it take to get an ETA for Australia” and “how long does an Australian ETA take to be approved”. The practical answer is that many decisions are quick, but you should apply in good time and wait for the official grant notification before travelling.

Why might an ETA application take longer?

An application may not receive an immediate decision for several reasons. For example, the system may need additional checks, information may require verification or an applicant’s circumstances may need further assessment.

Possible issues include:

• Incorrect passport details or a mismatch between the application and passport.
• Problems scanning the passport chip or completing identity verification.
• Incomplete or unclear answers to application questions.
• Information that requires additional health or character assessment.
• Previous immigration history or other circumstances requiring review.

These are examples of factors that can create complications; they do not mean that every applicant with one of these circumstances will receive the same outcome.

When should you apply for an Australian ETA?

Apply before your planned departure and allow enough time for a decision. Avoid leaving the application until the day of your flight. Even where many applications are decided immediately, additional checks can happen and airlines may check that you hold the required travel authority before boarding.

Do not treat a submitted application as an approved visa. Wait until you have received confirmation of the grant and check that the details are correct.

How Long Does an Australian ETA Last?

 

An Australian ETA is generally valid for 12 months from the date it is granted, or until the passport linked to it expires, whichever happens first. During its validity, it generally permits multiple entries into Australia, with a stay of up to three months on each arrival.

This is why searches such as “how long does an Australian ETA last”, “how long is an Australian ETA valid for” and “Australian ETA validity” are important. The 12-month validity period is not the same as permission to remain in Australia continuously for 12 months.

How long can a UK citizen stay in Australia on an ETA?

A qualifying British Citizen passport holder with an ETA can generally stay for up to three months on each entry. The ETA is normally valid for multiple visits during its 12-month validity period, subject to its conditions and the passport expiry date.

For example, a traveller might visit Australia for a few weeks, leave the country and later return for another short visit while the ETA remains valid. However, repeated or lengthy visits may lead authorities to ask questions about the person’s real purpose of travel. A visitor must genuinely intend to stay temporarily and comply with the visa conditions.

Does the ETA reset after leaving Australia?

The three-month stay allowance is assessed for each entry under the ETA conditions. Leaving Australia does not extend the ETA’s overall 12-month validity. You must also satisfy border requirements each time you arrive. A pattern of frequent or lengthy visits may be examined to determine whether you are genuinely visiting rather than attempting to live in Australia through repeated visitor entries.

What happens if your passport expires?

Your ETA is linked to the passport used in the application. If that passport expires, the ETA cannot simply be transferred to a replacement passport. You should check the current Australian Government instructions and arrange the appropriate new travel authority using your new passport before travelling.

eVisitor or ETA Australia from UK: Which Is Better?

British Citizen passport holders may be eligible for both the ETA subclass 601 and eVisitor subclass 651. Both are electronic visitor options, but they have different application processes and eligibility rules.

The eVisitor is free and is applied for online through the Australian Government’s system. The ETA is applied for through the official mobile app and has an AUD 20 service charge. Both generally allow multiple visits over 12 months, with a maximum stay of three months per visit.

When should you choose the eVisitor?

If you hold a British Citizen passport and meet the eVisitor requirements, the eVisitor may be a suitable choice because it is free and can be applied for online. It is particularly useful for travellers who prefer not to use a mobile application or who want to avoid the ETA app service charge.

Remember that the eVisitor is not available to every British passport category. You must hold an eligible passport and meet the visa criteria.

When should you choose the ETA?

The ETA may be suitable if your passport is eligible for that travel authority and you prefer to use the official mobile app. Some travellers choose it because the application process is app-based and decisions are often provided quickly.

However, the ETA is not automatically better than the eVisitor. If you are eligible for both, compare the cost and application method. Do not pay for an ETA simply because a third-party website claims it is the only way to travel to Australia.

Is There a Free Visa for Australia from UK?

Yes. Eligible British Citizen passport holders can apply for the free eVisitor visa (subclass 651). It is an electronic visitor visa that generally allows multiple entries over 12 months, with stays of up to three months after each entry.

The Australian ETA is also sometimes described as having no visa application charge, but the official ETA app has an AUD 20 service charge. This means the eVisitor is the no-cost option for applicants who qualify for it.

Be careful when searching for a “free visa for Australia from UK”. A free application route is not the same as automatic approval. Applicants still need to meet the eligibility, health, character and genuine visitor requirements.

Can You Apply for an Australian ETA for Your Family?

Families travelling together should make sure that every person has the correct visa or travel authority before departure. Each traveller needs their own appropriate permission to travel, including children. A parent’s ETA or eVisitor does not automatically cover a child travelling on the same itinerary.

The Australian ETA app may allow an eligible person to submit applications for other family members. Follow the app’s instructions for each applicant and make sure the details match the passport of the person travelling.

The eVisitor has a separate application requirement for each family member. The Australian Department of Home Affairs states that family members cannot simply be included in one eVisitor application. Each person, including children listed on a parent’s passport where relevant, must have an individual application.

What should parents check before applying?

• Confirm the passport type and nationality of every family member.
• Check whether each person is eligible for an ETA or eVisitor.
• Use the correct passport details for each application.
• Check that each applicant has received a visa grant before departure.
• Make sure the travel dates and passport expiry dates are suitable.

Can You Get an Australian ETA at the Airport?

You should not rely on obtaining an Australian ETA at the airport immediately before departure. The ETA application must be made through the official app, and you need to receive the grant before travelling. Airlines may check your permission to travel before allowing you to board.

If you arrive at the airport without the required visa or travel authority, you could be refused boarding. This can cause missed flights, additional costs and disruption to your travel plans.

Apply before your departure date, check the application result and make sure the passport you use for travel is the same passport linked to your approved ETA.

What If You Have a Criminal Conviction or Previous Visa Refusal?

Applicants must answer all character and immigration-history questions truthfully. A criminal conviction or previous visa refusal can affect the appropriate application route and may lead to additional assessment.

The Australian Government’s eVisitor guidance specifically advises applicants with a criminal conviction in any country to apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) instead. ETA applicants must also answer the app’s character questions accurately. Do not assume that an ETA or eVisitor will be granted simply because you hold an eligible passport.

If you have a conviction, previous visa cancellation, refusal, overstay or other immigration issue, check the current official requirements before applying. The correct approach depends on the nature of the issue and your individual circumstances. Providing false or misleading information can create serious problems for a visa application.

Should you apply for a Visitor visa subclass 600?

A Visitor visa (subclass 600) may be a more appropriate option for some travellers who cannot use an ETA or eVisitor or whose circumstances require a different assessment. It can also be relevant where a person wants to visit for a longer period, subject to the stream and the period granted.

Do not assume that subclass 600 guarantees approval or a 12-month stay. The Department of Home Affairs assesses the application and determines the permitted stay period. You may be granted a shorter period than requested.

What Is the Australian Visitor Visa Subclass 600?

The Visitor visa (subclass 600) is a visitor visa option for people who want to travel to Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or other permitted visitor purposes. It can be relevant to applicants who are not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor and to some travellers whose circumstances call for a different visitor visa.

The Tourist stream applied for outside Australia is assessed on a case-by-case basis. The Department may grant a stay period that reflects the applicant’s circumstances and travel purpose. A stay of up to 12 months may be possible in certain circumstances, but it is not guaranteed.

Who may need to consider subclass 600?

• Travellers whose passport is not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor.
• Applicants who need a visitor visa for a longer or different travel purpose.
• People whose circumstances mean that an ETA or eVisitor is not an appropriate route.
• Applicants who need to provide supporting documents for a more detailed assessment.
• Travellers who have been advised by the Department to apply for another suitable visa.

To explore this option, read GIEC Global’s information about the Australia Visitor visa. Always confirm the current application charge, stream requirements and conditions on the official Department of Home Affairs website before lodging an application.

UK ETA for Australians Visiting UK: Is It the Same as an Australia ETA?

No. The UK ETA and Australian ETA are different travel authorisations issued by different governments. UK ETA is for eligible visitors travelling to the United Kingdom. The Australian ETA is for eligible travellers visiting Australia.

Some people search for “UK ETA Australia” or “UK ETA for Australians” when they are actually asking about Australian citizens travelling to Britain. Australian citizens are among the nationalities that may need a UK ETA for a visit to the UK, depending on their circumstances and the applicable UK rules.

According to the current GOV.UK application page, the UK ETA costs GBP 20, is normally valid for two years or until the passport expires (whichever is sooner), and allows multiple journeys while valid. Visitors can generally stay for up to six months per visit, subject to UK immigration rules and their circumstances.

Do not confuse the UK ETA with the Australian ETA. Check the relevant government’s official guidance for the country you intend to visit:

• Apply for a UK ETA – GOV.UK.
• Australian ETA subclass 601 – Department of Home Affairs.

Australia Entry Requirements for UK Citizens

Having an ETA or eVisitor is an important part of preparing for your trip, but it is not the only travel consideration. Before leaving UK, check that your passport, travel arrangements and supporting documents are in order.

Passport validity

Check that your passport is valid for your intended journey and that the details match your visa grant. Airlines and border authorities may need to verify your identity and travel permission. If you renew your passport after receiving your ETA, check whether you need a new travel authority.

Visa grant confirmation

Do not assume that submitting an application means you have permission to travel. Wait for the official grant notification. Check your name, passport number and visa details before departure.

Return or onward travel plans

Be prepared to explain your travel arrangements and intended departure from Australia if requested. Visitors should be able to demonstrate that their visit is temporary and that they can support themselves during their stay.

Funds for your visit

You should have sufficient funds to cover your accommodation, daily expenses, transport and other costs. The amount needed depends on your travel plans and personal circumstances. Keep relevant evidence available if requested.

Health and travel insurance

Consider arranging suitable travel medical insurance before departure. Visitors may be responsible for their medical expenses in Australia. Do not assume that a visitor visa provides access to publicly funded healthcare.

Complying with visa conditions

Check the conditions attached to your visa and follow them throughout your stay. Do not work if your visa does not permit employment, and do not remain in Australia beyond your authorised stay period.

Can You Work in Australia on an ETA or eVisitor?

No. An ETA or eVisitor is not a work visa. These visitor options allow certain business visitor activities, but they do not provide general permission to take up employment in Australia.

If you want to work while travelling, you should consider a visa that specifically permits work. The correct option depends on your age, nationality, qualifications, occupation, employer arrangements and intended length of stay.

Working Holiday visa subclass 417

The Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) is designed for eligible young adults from participating countries. It can allow eligible applicants to holiday and undertake permitted work in Australia, subject to age, passport and visa conditions.

Do not assume that every UK resident qualifies. The passport and other eligibility criteria matter. Check the current age limits and conditions before making plans.

Training visa subclass 407

The Training visa (subclass 407) may be relevant to people undertaking an eligible occupational training programme or professional development activity. It is not a general holiday or unrestricted employment visa. Applicants must meet the requirements for the relevant training arrangement.

Temporary Graduate visa subclass 485

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is a separate visa pathway for eligible international graduates who meet the applicable study, qualification and other requirements. It should not be confused with a visitor visa or ETA.

Can You Move to Australia After Visiting on an ETA?

An ETA is a temporary visitor travel authority. It does not provide permanent residence or an automatic route to migration. If you visit Australia and later decide that you want to live there, you will need to identify a visa pathway for which you qualify.

Some people use a short visit to explore cities, meet family, attend permitted business meetings or understand the country before making longer-term plans. That is different from travelling on an ETA with the intention of undertaking activities that the visitor visa does not permit.

General Skilled Migration

Australia’s General Skilled Migration programme includes points-tested visa options such as subclasses 189, 190 and 491. Eligibility may depend on factors such as occupation, skills assessment, English ability, age, points and invitation requirements.

Explore GIEC Global’s information about General Skilled Migration to Australia and the Australia PR points system.

Australia PR points calculator

If you are considering a skilled migration route, a points estimate can help you understand some of the factors that may influence your eligibility. You can use the Australia PR points calculator as an initial planning tool. A calculator is not an invitation, visa approval or substitute for checking the current official criteria.

Partner and parent visa options

People with eligible family relationships in Australia may be able to explore partner or parent visa options. These visas have their own sponsorship, relationship, eligibility and evidence requirements. A visitor visa does not automatically convert into a partner or parent visa.

Read more about the Australia Partner visa and Parent visa options before deciding which pathway may be relevant.

Can You Stay in Australia Longer Than Three Months?

An ETA or eVisitor generally allows a stay of up to three months on each entry. If you need to stay longer, you must consider another visa that suits your circumstances. You cannot simply assume that the ETA or eVisitor can be extended to provide a longer stay.

A Visitor visa subclass 600 may be relevant for some longer visits. The period granted depends on the application and the Department’s assessment. Some applicants may receive a shorter stay than requested.

What is the No Further Stay condition?

Some Australian visitor visas may include a condition known as No Further Stay, such as condition 8503. If this condition applies, it can restrict your ability to apply for many other visas while you are in Australia. The exact effect depends on the condition and the visa rules.

Check your visa grant letter and conditions before travelling. Do not assume that you can enter Australia as a visitor and then apply for any other visa from inside the country. If you have a longer-term migration plan, understand the relevant visa rules before departure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an Australia ETA

A straightforward application can still be delayed or affected by avoidable errors. Before submitting an ETA application, check the information carefully and make sure that you understand the conditions.

Using the wrong passport details

Your ETA is connected to the passport used in the application. A spelling error, incorrect passport number or mismatch in personal details may cause problems when the airline checks your travel permission. Enter the details exactly as they appear in your passport.

Assuming UK residence means ETA eligibility

Australian ETA and eVisitor eligibility is not based only on UK residence. A person who lives in UK but holds a passport from a country that is not eligible may need another visa. Check the passport requirements before starting an application.

Using unofficial application websites

Third-party services may charge additional fees and may not provide faster decisions. Use the official Australian ETA app for an ETA and the Department of Home Affairs website for an eVisitor application.

Booking travel before checking the visa outcome

Do not assume that your application will be approved immediately. Wait for the grant notification and check the details before travelling. A pending application is not the same as a granted visa.

Failing to disclose relevant information

Answer character, health and immigration-history questions honestly. A previous refusal, conviction or other relevant issue should not be hidden. If you are unsure how to answer a question, seek guidance before submitting your application.

Confusing a visitor visa with a work visa

An ETA and eVisitor do not provide general work rights. If employment is part of your plan, research an appropriate work visa instead of relying on visitor permission.

How GIEC Global Can Help with Australian Visitor and Migration Visa Planning

For many eligible British Citizen passport holders, applying for an ETA or eVisitor is a straightforward process that can be completed directly through the Australian Government. You do not need to pay an immigration consultant simply to submit a standard ETA application through the official app.

However, some situations require more careful consideration. You may need to explore a different visitor visa if your passport is not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor, you have a previous refusal, you have a criminal conviction, you want a longer visit or your travel circumstances are more complex.

GIEC Global provides information and immigration consultation for people considering Australian visitor and longer-term migration options from UK. Depending on your circumstances, our team can help you understand the available routes and the relevant application requirements.

How our team can support your plans

• Visitor visa guidance: Understand whether an ETA, eVisitor or Visitor visa subclass 600 may be appropriate for your circumstances.
• Application preparation: Get help organising information and supporting documents for an application where professional assistance is appropriate.
• Previous immigration issues: Understand why previous refusals, cancellations or other history may need careful consideration before making another application.
• Work and skilled migration planning: Explore whether a Working Holiday, training, employer-sponsored or skilled migration route may fit your longer-term plans.
• Family migration information: Understand the broad requirements for partner and parent visa pathways.

If your longer-term goal is to study in Australia, you can also explore GIEC Global’s Study in Australia information. If your goal is migration, visit our Migrate to Australia page to explore relevant pathways.

Our aim is to help you understand your options before you make important travel or migration decisions. Visa eligibility and decisions remain with the Australian Department of Home Affairs. No consultant can guarantee a visa grant.

Final Checklist Before Travelling from UK to Australia

Before you travel, take a few minutes to check the following points:

• Confirm the nationality and passport type you will use for travel.
• Check whether you are eligible for an ETA, eVisitor or another Australian visa.
• Apply through the correct official Australian Government channel.
• Wait for the visa or travel authority to be granted.
• Check that your passport details match the grant information.
• Understand the permitted length of stay and visa conditions.
• Make sure your travel purpose is permitted by your visa.
• Arrange suitable funds, accommodation and travel insurance.
• Check current Australian entry requirements before departure.
• Keep your visa grant information and travel documents accessible.

In summary: British Citizen passport holders visiting Australia for a short holiday or family visit may be eligible for either the ETA subclass 601 or the free eVisitor subclass 651. The ETA has an AUD 20 app service charge, while the eVisitor is free. Both generally allow multiple visits over 12 months, with a stay of up to three months per entry. If you hold a different passport, have a complex immigration history or intend to work or stay longer, check the appropriate visa options before travelling.

Reviewed by the GIEC Global immigration team. Visa rules, application charges and processing arrangements can change. This information is general guidance and is not a guarantee of eligibility or visa approval. Always confirm the latest requirements with the Australian Department of Home Affairs before applying or travelling.