Australia ETA FAQs: Your questions answered

Planning a trip to Australia? If you’re visiting for a short stay, understanding the Australia Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and the differences between the ETA and visa are key to a smooth, stress-free journey.

We’re here to help you every step of the way - from answering your top questions to guiding you through the fast, online application process.

What is the Australian ETA, and who needs it?

The Australia ETA is a digital travel authorization that replaces the need for a paper visa. It’s designed for short-term visits and makes the entry process easier and faster.

✅ Travelers from eligible countries like Malaysia, the United States, Canada, and Japan need an ETA for tourism or business trips

✅ The ETA is electronically linked to your passport - no physical documents needed

✅ It covers both tourism and short business activities (but not paid work)

"The process was super quick, and all the requirements were clear. I had no issues, and approval came through fast. Thank you iVisa!" — Adam from Jordan

How to apply for an Australia ETA

Applying is simple when you use iVisa’s trusted service! Here’s what you need:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months left from your arrival date)
• An email address for updates and confirmations
• A payment method (we accept credit cards, PayPal, and more)

💡 Tip from Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert:

"Always double-check your details before submitting. Small mistakes (like typos in your name or passport number) are the most common cause of delays."

When applying with iVisa, our expert team will make sure your application is error-free.

How long is the ETA valid?

Here’s what you get with an Australia ETA:

• Valid for 12 months (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first)
• Multiple entries — visit Australia as many times as you like
• Stay up to 90 days per visit

Main differences between an ETA and a visa

1. Purpose and eligibility

ETA (Electronic Travel Authority): For short-term visits (tourism, business meetings, short study under 3 months) by nationals of specific eligible countries (like Malaysia, US, Canada, Japan).

Visa (regular visitor or work visas): For travelers from non-ETA-eligible countries or for those wanting to stay longer, work, or study for more than 3 months.

2. Application process

ETA: Fully online, no embassy visit, no paper documents — approval often in minutes or hours.

Visa: Requires detailed application, sometimes biometrics, interviews, or extra documents; processing can take days to weeks.

3. Validity and conditions

ETA: Valid for 12 months, allows multiple entries, each stay up to 90 days; no work allowed.

Visa: Validity varies by visa type; can allow longer stays, work, study, or even migration depending on the category.

Quick takeaway:

👉 If you’re eligible for an ETA, it’s the fastest and easiest option for short visits. 👉 If you need to work, study long-term, or stay beyond 90 days, you need a regular Australian visa.

Frequently asked Australia ETA questions (and answers)

Can I work in Australia with an ETA?

❌ No. The ETA only covers tourism, business meetings, or short-term study. Paid work requires a different visa.

What if my ETA is denied?

While denials are rare with iVisa, they can happen (often due to an invalid passport or an ineligible nationality). If this happens, we’ll help you explore alternative visa options.

How do I check my ETA status?

You’ll get real-time updates via email. Just make sure you provide a valid email when you apply. You can also check the status of your ETA via the official government website.

I’ve overstayed in Australia before. Can I still apply?

Previous overstays can complicate applications. Be honest on your form, and our team can help guide you through the next steps.

Why choose iVisa for your Australia ETA?

For over 10 years, we’ve been helping travelers get their visas fast and stress-free.

✅ Expert guidance throughout the application process

✅ Fast processing times that fit your travel plans

✅ User-friendly platform - no confusing forms or jargon

✅ Dedicated support team to help with questions or issues

Don’t let visa worries slow down your Australian adventure. Let iVisa handle the details so you can focus on planning your trip of a lifetime.

Need help with your Australia ETA application?

We’re here for you! Contact us anytime via:

• Live chat
• WhatsApp