ETA vs. eVisitor: Choosing the Right Visa for Short-Term Travel to Australia

Navigating the Australian visitor visa landscape for a short trip can be confusing, especially for those eligible for one of the country's streamlined electronic permits. For prospective tourists and business visitors, the choice between an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and an eVisitor visa is a common decision that requires careful consideration of your eligibility and purpose. This guide provides clarity for international travellers on which visa option is right for them, outlining the key features and differences to help ensure a smooth and compliant journey to Australia.

Australia offers two key visa options for short-term travel: the Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) and the eVisitor visa (subclass 651). Both allow for a stay of up to three months per visit within a 12-month period and are electronically linked to your valid passport. However, it is important to understand the distinctions. The right visitor visa for you depends on your nationality, purpose, and specific circumstances.

Key Features of the ETA (Subclass 601)

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), subclass 601, is a temporary visa that allows eligible passport holders to travel to Australia for short-term tourism or business purposes. This visa is designed for short-term stays in Australia and is electronically linked to the applicant's passport, meaning it does not require a physical visa label. The ETA permits multiple entries to Australia for up to 12 months from the date of grant. On each entry, the visa holder can stay for a maximum of three months.

Key Features of the eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)

The eVisitor visa, or subclass 651, is a free visa option for eligible passport holders, primarily from the European Union and other specified countries. Like the ETA, it is designed for short-term travel for tourism and business visitor activities. The eVisitor visa is also valid for 12 months and allows for multiple entries, with a maximum stay of three months on each visit. This visa is also electronically linked to your passport, making the application process straightforward and efficient.

Key Differences and Eligibility

While the purpose and stay periods for the ETA and eVisitor are similar, their main differences lie in eligibility, application platform, and cost.

The primary distinction is based on nationality. The ETA is available to citizens of a specific list of countries, including the United States, Canada, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan, while the eVisitor visa is exclusively for citizens of certain European countries and other eligible passport holders.

Furthermore, the application methods differ. The ETA must be lodged through the official "AustralianETA" mobile app. Conversely, the eVisitor visa application is completed online through a traveller's ImmiAccount.

Finally, there is a difference in cost. The eVisitor visa is a free Australian visa, meaning there is no government application charge. In contrast, while there is no government visa application charge for an ETA, there is an application service fee of AUD$20 to use the official mobile app.

Common Activities Permitted on Both Visas

Both the ETA and eVisitor visas allow for similar short-term business activities and family visits in Australia. Visa holders can use them for tourism, such as taking a short holiday. They also permit specific business visitor activities, including making general business enquiries, attending meetings, attending conferences, and negotiating contracts.

It is crucial to note that neither visa permits working for an Australian employer. Engaging in paid work or providing services to an Australian-based business is a serious breach of your visa conditions. Non-compliance can lead to visa cancellation and deportation from Australia.

Important Considerations for Travellers

Beyond the subclass 601 and subclass 651, you may have other visa options depending on your circumstances. For example, you may be eligible for a Working Holiday visa or a Work and Holiday visa. Student visas are also an option for those planning to study in Australia.

When travelling to Australia, you should always carry a valid passport and any other necessary travel documents. You may be asked to provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, as well as return travel tickets, to demonstrate your intention to leave Australia at the end of your authorised visit.

The Application Process and Processing Times

The application process for both visas is designed to be streamlined and electronic. For the ETA visa, the application must be lodged through the official "AustralianETA" mobile app. This app uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to read the passport's chip, which requires applicants to be physically present with their passport during the process. The eVisitor visa application, on the other hand, is completed online through an ImmiAccount. Most applications are processed quickly, sometimes within minutes.

For both visa applications, it is essential to be thorough and accurate with all personal details. You must also meet certain character requirements and may need to show you have adequate health insurance. Any refusal or delay in processing could be a result of inaccurate information provided or a failure to meet the eligibility criteria for the visa.

If your circumstances change or you require an extended stay, you may have the option to apply for a different type of visa while in Australia. It is important to remember that these visitor visas are designed for temporary visits for a specific purpose.

How Australian Migration Lawyers Can Help

From our experience, navigating the complexities of Australian visas, even for a short-term visit, can present challenges. If your application for an ETA or eVisitor visa has been refused, or if you have a complex immigration history such as prior visa cancellations or character concerns, the team at Australian Migration Lawyers can provide tailored advice.

Our lawyers assist clients through consultations, evidence review, and document drafting to ensure all legal requirements are met. We can help you understand your visa options and, where necessary, provide legal representation to challenge a visa refusal or apply for a more appropriate visa subclass.

Contact Australian Migration Lawyers today for professional legal advice and assistance with your Australian visa application. Our team can help maximise your prospects of a successful outcome.