Australian Visa Information
It is vital to get the most up to date details when dealing with visas. Below are the places to find this information quickly and reliably.
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
Travelling to Australia necessitates a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), unless you are an Australian citizen or a New Zealand passport holder (most). The information that follows is a brief overview. It is recommended that you make use of the links provided to gain the most upto date information.
The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs website provides some visa application forms and can be found at: http://www.immi.gov.au
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra also provides visa information.
The Australian Government advise persons intending to visit Australia, to obtain a visa or ETA before “making any irreversible arrangements such as paying for airline tickets, giving notice to employers or disposing of real estate”. In addition health and character requirements must be satisfied.
Tourist – Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
This form of visa requires no application form filling or passport stamping. The Australian government offices recommend that you apply for your ETA from a travel agent. Have your credit card and all the passports you are appling for ready in front of you when you call. There may be an additional charge by an agent for the visa.
The Tourist ETA is valid for 12 months, or until your passport expires; whichever is earlier. Multiple entries into Australia are permitted, with a maximum stay of three months on each visit and in some cases up to 6 months.
Business – Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
The Business ETA is for people requiring entry to Australia for business purposes.
The Business ETA is valid for 10 years, or until your passport expires; whichever comes earlier. Multiple entries into Australia are permitted with a maximum 3 month stay on each occasion.
Further Information: http://www.immi.gov.au
Working Holiday Visas
Working Holiday Visas are for 18-30 year olds who wish to travel in Australia for upto one year. You are entitled to work in order to supplement your travel funds. Details can be obtained by visiting the embassy website. Fact sheet 49 offers further information, as well as visa restrictions and requirements.
Temporary Residence Visas
Information on Temporary Residence Visas for employment, cultural or other purposes are available from the embassy website. Fact sheet 47 offers further information, as well as visa restrictions and requirements.
Migration Visas
Several different visa classes exist for people wanting to permanently migrate to Australia. The number of some visa classes granted is limited by law so competition is likely to be fierce. There are eight different migration information and application booklets available. General information and advice is available on the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs Website found at: http://www.immi.gov.au
Citizenship Enquiries
Information on how to become an Australian Citizen can be obtained from the Government run Australian Citizenship website.
Quarantine Regulations
Australia has very strict quarantine regulations. When intending to visit, or return to Australia, it is a good idea to check what you can and can’t bring into the country with regards to food, animal and plant material. The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service check every piece of luggage that is brought into Australia and are also responsible for the screening of all mail sent to Australia. Further Information about Australian Quarantine Regulations.
