Australia Visa – Complete Guide for UK Citizens 2025

Australia Visa from the UK: Official Guide to ETA and eVisitor Applications

For British citizens planning a trip Down Under, the process of obtaining the right travel permission is often simpler—and cheaper—than many expect. UK passport holders can choose between two main electronic visa options for short visits: the eVisitor (subclass 651) and the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601). Understanding which one applies, where to apply, and what it costs are the first steps to a smooth journey.

Both permits are designed for tourism and short business trips, but they differ in application method and potential fees. The most reliable information comes directly from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs and the UK government’s travel advice, which help travellers avoid confusion caused by third-party services charging for what is often free.

What is the official website to apply for an Australia visa?

The primary gateway for Australia visa applications is the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. For most visitor visas, the process takes place through the department’s online portal, ImmiAccount. The ETA has its own dedicated official mobile app called the AustralianETA app.

Where to apply

The official portal for eVisitor applications is ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. For an ETA, the only official application method is the AustralianETA smartphone app, as confirmed by the UK government travel advice.

Visa Type: ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) or eVisitor

Official Application Portal: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

Cost for UK Citizens: Free (ETA via official app) or £0-£20 (eVisitor). Third-party services cost extra.

Typical Processing Time: Instant (ETA) to 5-12 days (eVisitor)

Here are the key insights UK travellers need to know before applying:

For tourism or business visits under 3 months, UK citizens can use the free ETA via the Australian ETA smartphone app.
The Australian eVisitor visa is a free online alternative for longer stays (up to 3 months) and is also available from the official Home Affairs website.
Multiple third-party websites charge fees (£20-£30+) for services that are free if done through the official government portal.
You do not need a visa if you hold a UK passport and only transit through Australia for less than 8 hours (unless you plan to leave the airport).

Entity	Value
Official Visa Website	immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
UK Government Advice	gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia
UK Embassy in Australia (visa queries)	Not applicable; visa processing is Australian government jurisdiction.
Visa Requirement	Required for all non-citizens entering Australia.
ETA Maximum Stay	3 months per visit, multiple entries over 12 months.
eVisitor Maximum Stay	3 months per visit, multiple entries over 12 months.

How do I apply for an Australia visa from the UK?

Applying for an eVisitor (subclass 651)

The application is entirely online. You need to create or sign in to ImmiAccount, select the eVisitor (subclass 651) option, and fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. You will also need to provide passport details, travel plans, and contact information. After submission, you wait for an email notification confirming the outcome.

Applying for an ETA (subclass 601)

The ETA requires the official AustralianETA app, which can be downloaded from app stores. The process involves scanning your passport, entering personal information, and answering a series of questions. Approval is often instantaneous or arrives within a few hours. This is the method recommended for UK citizens who want a quick, free option.

Which one to choose?

For most UK citizens visiting for tourism or business under 3 months, the ETA via the official app is the fastest and easiest route. The eVisitor is a good alternative if you prefer applying via a desktop computer or need a slightly longer processing window. Both are free when using the official channels.

What is the Australia visa application process for tourists?

The tourist application process for either visa type follows a similar pattern: confirm eligibility, gather your passport, complete the online or app-based form, submit, and wait for an electronic approval linked to your passport. No physical visa label is issued. The Australian Department of Home Affairs Visa Finder can help you confirm the right visa type.

Do UK citizens need a visa for Australia?

Yes. All non-citizens must hold a valid visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia. UK citizens cannot enter on a passport alone and must obtain either an ETA or eVisitor for short stays. The UK government’s travel advice confirms this requirement clearly.

What are the entry requirements for Australia from the UK?

British citizens need a passport valid for the duration of their stay. While there is no specific minimum validity period for UK passport holders on an ETA or eVisitor, it is advisable to have at least six months remaining on your passport. You must also meet Australia’s health and character requirements, which include disclosing any serious criminal convictions.

Are there specific requirements for a yellow fever vaccination for Australia?

Australia does require proof of yellow fever vaccination if you have travelled through or spent time in a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission in the six days before your arrival. This requirement applies regardless of visa type. The UK Government Travel Advice page for Australia provides the most current health-related entry rules.

What is the difference between an ETA and an eVisitor visa for Australia?

The core difference lies in the application channel and the potential for a service fee. The UK government states that the eVisitor has no visa application charge or service fee. The ETA also has no visa application charge, but may include a service fee depending on how you apply. While the official AustralianETA app is free, some third-party services charge a processing fee.

Both visas allow stays of up to three months per visit, with multiple entries over a 12-month period. The eVisitor is often described as the best-known free option for UK citizens, while the ETA is another valid electronic visitor option depending on eligibility and application method. You can read more about visa options on the Australian High Commission London visa information page.

What visa do I need to work in Australia from the UK?

The eVisitor and ETA only permit business visitor activities such as attending meetings or conferences. If you intend to work in Australia, you need a different visa type, such as the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462) or a skilled work visa like the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482). These applications are handled through the Home Affairs visa finder.

What is the cost and processing time for an Australia visa?

The eVisitor is completely free (AUD $0) according to both third-party guides and the UK government. The ETA is also free when applied for through the official AustralianETA app, though some sources mention a potential service fee. Processing times vary: the ETA is often instant, while the eVisitor can take from a few hours up to 12 days, with many applications decided within 24 hours. One non-official source notes that processing can take 1 to 5 business days.

Beware of third-party fees

Some websites outside the Australian government mention paid “application services” or fees. These are not official visa fees and may be separate service charges. For the most authoritative guidance, always use the Australian Department of Home Affairs and the UK government travel advice pages.

Is there a free visa for Australia from the UK?

Yes. Both the eVisitor and the ETA (via the official app) are free of charge for UK citizens. The UK government confirms there is no application charge or service fee for the eVisitor. The ETA has no visa application charge, but travellers should be cautious of third-party apps or websites that may add a service fee.

How can I check my Australia visa status?

Visa status can be checked through the Department of Home Affairs online portal. If you applied via ImmiAccount, you can log in to your account and view the status of your application. For ETA applications made through the AustralianETA app, the app itself usually provides the application outcome and status. The UK government does not process Australian visas, so all status queries should be directed to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

What is the typical timeline for an Australia visa application from the UK?

Confirm eligibility (UK passport holder for ETA/eVisitor) – 1 minute
Download the Australian ETA app (for ETA) or visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au (for eVisitor) – 2 minutes
Complete online application (passport details, travel history, health questions) – 10-20 minutes
Submit application (no fee for ETA/eVisitor) – 1 minute
Wait for processing (instant for ETA; 5-12 days for eVisitor) – Instant to 12 days
Receive confirmation via email or app notification – Immediate upon approval

What information about Australian visas is certain, and what remains unclear?

Established Information	Information That Remains Unclear
UK citizens can apply for an ETA or eVisitor visa to travel to Australia for tourism or business.	Processing times can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances (e.g., prior visa refusals).
The official application website is immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.	The Australian government occasionally updates visa requirements without notice (e.g., health or character checks).
You must have a valid UK passport with at least 6 months validity (or 12 months for some countries).	Third-party sites often create confusion by charging for services that are free on the official portal.

Why is this guidance needed for UK travellers?

This content serves UK-based users looking to travel to Australia. The search results show a split between official government sources and commercial third-party sites. Users often struggle to distinguish between the two, leading to unnecessary fees. This guide bridges that gap by explaining both visa types, directing users to official pathways, and warning against overpaying for third-party assistance.

What do official sources say about Australia visa requirements?

“All non-citizens need to obtain a visa prior to travelling to Australia.”

— Australian High Commission, London

“You may be eligible for an Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).”

— uk.embassy.gov.au

“The cost is £24.95 per visa. Australian visas are issued in 5 days on average.”

— e-visa.co.uk (third-party site – used as example of commercial offering)

Summary: What is the essential advice for UK citizens?

For British citizens travelling to Australia for a short stay, the most practical first step is to check eligibility for the free eVisitor visa. Apply well before your departure through the official ImmiAccount portal or the AustralianETA app, and always use the official government websites to avoid third-party fees. Keep your passport details accurate, and expect an electronic approval linked to your passport rather than a physical visa label. While you are planning your trip, you might also enjoy reading about Things to do in Copenhagen – Top Attractions & Travel Guide or On the Beach Holidays Lanzarote: Best Resorts & Deals.

Frequently asked questions about Australian visas for UK citizens

Can I extend my Australia visa while in Australia?

Yes, but only for certain visa types (e.g., eVisitor can be extended in some circumstances). You must apply to the Department of Home Affairs before your current visa expires.

Do I need a visa if I am only transiting through Australia?

If you are not leaving the airport and your transit is under 8 hours, you generally do not need a visa. Otherwise, you will need a Transit visa (subclass 771) or a standard eVisitor/ETA.

Can I apply for a work visa from the UK?

Yes. For working holidays (e.g., Working Holiday Visa subclass 417 or 462) or skilled work (e.g., Temporary Skill Shortage visa subclass 482), you must apply through the official Home Affairs visa finder.

What should I do if my visa application is rejected?

You can appeal the decision in most cases, or reapply with additional information. It is recommended to consult the official Home Affairs guidelines or seek professional migration advice.

How long does an ETA last for UK citizens?

The ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of grant, allowing multiple visits of up to 3 months each.

Do children need a separate visa to travel to Australia?

Yes, each traveller, including infants and children, must hold their own visa or ETA before travelling to Australia.

Can I use a third-party website to apply for my visa?

You can, but these services charge fees for what is often free through the official government portal. The Australian Department of Home Affairs recommends using official channels.

What happens if my passport expires before my visa?

Your visa is linked to the passport number used in the application. If you renew your passport, you must apply for a new visa or notify the Department of Home Affairs.

Is there a difference between a visa and an ETA?

An ETA is a type of electronic visa. Both are valid travel authorities, but the ETA is specifically designed for quick, app-based applications for eligible passport holders.