Australia Visa for United States Citizens 2026 - Requirements, Fees & Processing

Overview

Planning a trip to Australia as an American citizen? The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) makes entry simple. Apply through the official Australian ETA app, pay the AUD $20 service fee, and receive approval within minutes. The ETA allows multiple entries over 12 months with stays up to 3 months each visit. No embassy appointments or extensive documentation required.

Visa Application process

The ETA application is completed entirely through the official Australian ETA app:1

Download the Official App

Get the Australian ETA app from the Apple App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android). The app is free to download. Only use the official government app to avoid scams and inflated fees.2

Scan Your Passport

Open the app and use your phone’s NFC capability to scan the chip in your US passport. Position the phone on the inside back cover where the chip is embedded. The app will extract your passport details automatically.

Take a Live Photo

The app will prompt you to take a selfie photo. This must be a live image taken in the app, not an uploaded photo. Ensure good lighting and remove glasses or head coverings.

Answer Questions

Provide your contact details, email address, and answer questions about: • Criminal history in any country • Other passports you hold • Previous names you have used • Travel purpose

Pay the Fee

The AUD $20 service fee is payable by credit or debit card within the app. This is the only fee for ETA applications.1

Receive Your ETA

Most applications receive an instant decision. You will see the result in the app and receive email confirmation. If approved, your ETA is immediately linked to your passport.

Visa Application Steps

1. Download the Official App
2. Scan Your Passport
3. Take a Live Photo
4. Answer Questions
5. Pay the Fee
6. Receive Your ETA
1. Complete the Incoming Passenger Card
2. Use SmartGate (if available)
3. Traditional Border Control

Visa Fees breakdown

Item: Cost	ETA Service Fee: AUD $20 (approximately USD $13)	Visa Application Charge: None	The AUD $20 fee is the only cost when using the official Australian ETA app.1 Be wary of third-party websites that charge significantly higher fees for the same service.	Important: The fee is non-refundable even if your ETA is refused.

Required documents

Valid US Passport
Australian ETA App
Live Facial Image
Payment Method
Character Declaration
Health Requirements

Valid US Passport

Your US passport must be valid and NFC-enabled for scanning through the Australian ETA app • Valid for at least the duration of your intended stay; • Must have an embedded chip (NFC-enabled) for scanning; • The 12-page US emergency passport may not work with the app] (Tip: Check that your passport has the chip symbol on the coverIf your passport cannot be scanned, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) instead)

Australian ETA App

Download the official Australian ETA app to submit your application • Available free on Apple App Store and Google Play Store; • Requires a smartphone with camera and NFC capability; • Must enable location services during application; • Valid email address required for confirmation] (Tip: Only use the official app from the Australian GovernmentAvoid third-party websites that charge higher fees)

Live Facial Image

Take a live selfie photo during the application process in the ETA app • Photo must be taken within the app; • Face clearly visible with good lighting; • No glasses, hats, or face coverings] (Tip: Use the front-facing camera of your phoneTake the photo in a well-lit room)

Payment Method

Credit or debit card to pay the AUD $20 service fee • Visa, Mastercard, American Express accepted; • Fee is charged immediately upon submission; • Fee is non-refundable even if ETA is refused] (Tip: Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions)

Character Declaration

You must declare any criminal convictions during the application process • Declare all criminal convictions in any country; • Includes convictions that have been spent or expunged; • False declarations can result in ETA cancellation] (Tip: If you have any criminal history, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) insteadThe ETA is not suitable for applicants with criminal records)

Health Requirements

You must meet Australian health requirements and not pose a risk to public health • No active tuberculosis or other serious communicable diseases; • Health examination not required for most ETA applicants; • Previous health issues may trigger additional checks] (Tip: If you have serious health conditions, consider applying for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) where you can provide health documentation)

Border entry information

Once granted, your ETA has the following conditions:1
Validity Period: 12 months from the date granted, or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
Entry Type: Multiple entries allowed during the validity period
Maximum Stay: Up to 3 months (90 days) per entry
Re-entry: You can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you want within the 12-month validity. Each entry allows a fresh 3-month stay period.
Important: If you stay in Australia for extended periods or make frequent visits, border officers may question whether you are a genuine visitor.1

Comparison

Feature	ETA (Subclass 601)	Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
Cost	AUD $20	AUD $190-$405
Processing	Usually instant	2-5 weeks
Application	Mobile app only	Online via ImmiAccount
Documentation	Minimal	Comprehensive
Criminal history	Not suitable	Can apply with documentation
Maximum stay	3 months	3, 6, or 12 months

Common rejection reasons

%	Reason
45%	Criminal History
20%	Health Concerns
18%	Previous Immigration Issues
10%	Application Errors
7%	Incomplete Declaration

45% - Criminal History

How to avoid: If you have any criminal record, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) instead. The ETA is designed for applicants with clean records only.

20% - Health Concerns

How to avoid: Apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) if you have significant health concerns. This allows you to submit health documentation and undergo required examinations.

18% - Previous Immigration Issues

How to avoid: Be honest about previous immigration issues. If you have a history of overstays or refusals, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) with supporting documentation explaining your circumstances.

10% - Application Errors

How to avoid: Double-check all information matches your passport exactly. Ensure your passport chip scans correctly before submitting.

7% - Incomplete Declaration

How to avoid: Answer all questions truthfully and completely. Declare all passports you hold and any previous names you have been known by.

Frequently asked questions

Do Americans need a visa for Australia?

Americans need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to visit Australia. The ETA is a quick, electronic authorization obtained through the official Australian ETA app. It is not a traditional visa but serves the same purpose.

How do I apply for an Australian ETA as a US citizen?

Download the free Australian ETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Scan your passport chip, take a live photo, answer the questions, and pay the AUD $20 fee. Most approvals are instant.

How long does the Australia ETA take to process?

Most ETA applications are approved within minutes of submission. Some applications may require additional processing and can take up to a few days. You will receive notification via the app and email.

How much does the Australian ETA cost for Americans?

The service fee is AUD $20 (approximately USD $13). There is no additional visa application charge. This is the only fee when applying through the official Australian ETA app.

How long can I stay in Australia on an ETA?

You can stay up to 3 months (90 days) per visit. The ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of grant, allowing multiple entries during that period. Each entry allows a maximum stay of 3 months.

Can I work in Australia on an ETA?

No. The ETA does not permit any work, including remote work for US employers. You cannot be employed by or provide services to Australian businesses. Violation can result in visa cancellation and removal from Australia.

What if my ETA application is refused?

If your ETA is refused, you can apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) through ImmiAccount. This visa allows you to submit supporting documents and address any concerns. Do not resubmit multiple ETA applications as you will receive the same result.

Can I extend my ETA while in Australia?

No, the ETA cannot be extended. If you want to stay longer than 3 months, you must apply for a different visa (such as Subclass 600) before your ETA expires. You cannot change from tourist purposes to work or study on an ETA.

What happens if I have a criminal record?

Applicants with criminal convictions should not apply for an ETA. Instead, apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) where you can provide evidence about your criminal convictions and demonstrate you meet character requirements.

Do I need the ETA app on my phone when traveling?

No. Once approved, your ETA is linked electronically to your passport. Airlines and Australian border officials can verify your ETA using your passport number. Keep your approval notification for reference but the app is not needed at the airport.

What activities can I do on an ETA?

You can visit as a tourist (sightseeing, cruises, visiting family and friends), conduct business visitor activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations), and study or train for up to 3 months. You cannot work or provide services.

How do I check my ETA status?

Check your ETA status in the Australian ETA app using the 'Visa check' function, or online through VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) at the Australian immigration website using your passport details.

Apply for Australia tourist visa online

Sources

Australian Government - Electronic Travel Authority

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601

Australian Embassy USA - Visas and Migration

https://usa.embassy.gov.au/visas-and-migration

Australian Government - ETA Eligibility

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601#Eligibility

Tourism Australia - Visa and Entry Requirements

https://www.australia.com/en-us/facts-and-planning/visa-and-customs/australia-entry-requirements.html

Australian Government - Visa Conditions

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions/see-your-visa-conditions?product=601

At a glance