Australia Visa for Japan Citizens 2026 - Requirements, Fees & Processing

Overview

Planning a trip to Australia as a Japanese citizen? You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) through the Australian ETA app. The AUD$20 fee covers a 12-month authorization for multiple visits up to 3 months each. This guide covers the app-based application process, requirements, and tips for smooth entry.

Visa Application process

Japanese citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before visiting Australia.1 The application is completed through the official Australian ETA app. Step 1: Download the App Download the free Australian ETA app from the iOS App Store or Google Play.1 Search for “Australian ETA” and look for the official app from the Australian Government. Step 2: Scan Your Passport Open the app and follow the prompts to scan your Japanese passport:1

Position the data page of your passport in the camera frame

Hold your phone near the passport to read the NFC chip

The app will extract your passport details automatically

Step 3: Take a Selfie The app will guide you to take a selfie photo for identity verification.1 Ensure: • Good lighting on your face • Neutral expression • No glasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons) Step 4: Answer Questions Provide information about:1 • Your travel plans (dates if known) • Contact details • Health and character declarations • Previous Australian visa history Step 5: Pay and Submit Pay the AUD$20 service charge by credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay/Google Pay.1 Your application is submitted immediately after payment. Step 6: Receive Authorization Most applications are approved within minutes to 12 hours.1 You will receive a notification in the app and by email when your ETA is granted.

Visa Application Steps

Step 1: Download the App
Step 2: Scan Your Passport
Step 3: Take a Selfie
Step 4: Answer Questions
Step 5: Pay and Submit
Step 6: Receive Authorization

Visa Fees breakdown

Item: Cost	ETA Service Charge: AUD$20	Visa Grant: Included	The AUD$20 fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.1

What you need to prove

When entering Australia, border officers verify:

Valid ETA linked to your passport (checked electronically) 1
Genuine visitor intent for tourism, family visit, or business 2
Return or onward travel showing you will leave within 3 months 2
Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay 2
Good health and no character concerns 1

Required documents

Valid Japanese Passport
Australian ETA App
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of Funds

Valid Japanese Passport

Japanese passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay • Must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival date; • Must not be damaged or altered; • Must be an ordinary passport (not diplomatic or service)] (Tip: Renew your passport if it expires within 6 months of your tripYour ETA is linked electronically to your passport number)

Australian ETA App

Download and use the official Australian ETA app to apply • Available free on iOS App Store and Google Play; • Scan your passport using your phone camera; • Take a selfie for identity verification; • Pay the AUD$20 service charge] (Tip: Only use the official app from Australian GovernmentEnsure good lighting when scanning passportThe app guides you through each step)

Return or Onward Ticket

Evidence of onward travel out of Australia • Round-trip ticket to Japan; • Or ticket to another country showing departure within 3 months] (Tip: Airlines may check for return travel before boardingHave booking confirmation accessible)

Proof of Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your visit • Credit cards, bank cards, or cash; • Approximately AUD$100-150 per day recommended] (Tip: Border officers may ask about your budgetHave evidence of funds accessible on your phone)

Optional documents

Health Requirements

No specific health requirements for Japanese citizens • No mandatory vaccinations required; • Health insurance strongly recommended] (Tip: Australia does not have reciprocal healthcare with JapanMedical treatment can be very expensive without insurance)

Border entry information

Upon arrival, Japanese citizens can use SmartGate automatic processing at major Australian airports:2
If SmartGate is unavailable or you are referred to an officer, you will go through manual processing where you may be asked about your visit.

If your application is denied

If your ETA application is unsuccessful:1
Check the reason provided in the app notification
Apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through ImmiAccount online
Provide additional documentation including:

Travel itinerary
Proof of funds
Evidence of ties to Japan
Character or health certificates if required
The Visitor visa (subclass 600) allows for a more detailed assessment and is appropriate for applicants with complex circumstances.

Comparison

Item	Cost
ETA Service Charge	AUD$20
Visa Grant	Included

Common rejection reasons

%	Reason
40%	Character Concerns
30%	Previous Australian Issues
20%	Technical Issues
10%	Health Concerns

40% - Character Concerns

How to avoid: Answer all questions honestly. If you have a criminal record, consider applying for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) instead.

30% - Previous Australian Issues

How to avoid: If you have had previous Australian immigration issues, apply for a standard Visitor visa and explain the circumstances.

20% - Technical Issues

How to avoid: Ensure good lighting when scanning your passport. Follow the app instructions carefully. Try again if the first attempt fails.

10% - Health Concerns

How to avoid: Most health conditions do not affect ETA eligibility, but tuberculosis or certain other conditions may require medical examination.

Frequently asked questions

Do Japanese citizens need a visa for Australia?

Japanese citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to visit Australia. This is applied for through the Australian ETA app and costs AUD$20. It is not visa-free but the process is quick and simple.

How long is the Australian ETA valid?

The ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can make multiple visits during this period.

How long can I stay in Australia with an ETA?

Each visit can be up to 3 months. You cannot extend your stay while in Australia on an ETA. For longer stays, you need to apply for a different visa type like the Visitor visa (subclass 600).

How do I apply for an Australian ETA?

Download the free Australian ETA app on your smartphone. The app guides you through scanning your passport, taking a selfie, answering questions, and paying the AUD$20 fee. Most applications are approved within minutes.

How quickly is the ETA approved?

Most ETA applications are approved within 12 hours, often within minutes. Apply at least 24 hours before your flight to allow for any delays.

Can I work in Australia with an ETA?

No. The ETA is only for tourism, visiting family or friends, or business visits (meetings, conferences). Any paid work requires a work visa. For working holidays, Japanese citizens can apply for the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).

What if my ETA is denied?

If denied, you can apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through the online ImmiAccount system. This requires more documentation but allows for a proper assessment of your circumstances.

Can I use the ETA app on any phone?

The app requires a smartphone with a camera capable of scanning the NFC chip in your passport. Most modern smartphones (iPhone 7 or later, recent Android devices) are compatible.

Apply for Australia tourist visa online

Sources

Australian Government - ETA

https://www.eta.homeaffairs.gov.au/

Australian Embassy Tokyo - ETA Information

https://japan.embassy.gov.au/tkyo/ETA601.html

Smartraveller - Japan Travel Advice

https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/japan

At a glance