us visit visa for australian citizens

How to Apply for a U.S. Visa From Australia

Everything you need to know about getting a U.S. visa as an Australian citizen or resident

Certain Australian citizens and residents may need to apply for a U.S. visa. Generally, most Australian citizens do not need a visa to enter the United States. Australia is one of 38+ countries that has partnered with the U.S. on its Visa Waiver Program . Because of that program, most Australian citizens can apply for an ESTA to gain valid, legal entry to the United States.

Keep reading to discover if you are eligible for an ESTA or if you need to apply for a visa to visit the United States as an Australian citizen or resident.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for Australian Visitors

Most Australian citizens are eligible to visit the United States by simply applying for an ESTA online. The quick and painless application can be completed in minutes. Upon arrival to a port of entry, a CBP officer will take your fingerprints and verify your reason for travel. If you are found admissible to the United States, then you will be granted entry.

Your ESTA will cost $14 USD. You must complete your ESTA application (and receive approval) prior to boarding a flight to the United States. Your ESTA will last for 2 years and allows you to remain in the United States for 90 days.

Who Qualifies for an ESTA?

Most Australian citizens do not require a visa to visit the United States. However, your ESTA application may ask two questions that make you ineligible for an ESTA – even if you are a legal Australian citizen.

If you meet either of the two following requirements, then you might require a visa – not an ESTA – to enter the United States:

• You have traveled to or were present in Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011
• You have joint citizenship with Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria

If you meet either of the above requirements, then you may be ineligible for an ESTA. Otherwise, most Australian citizens can apply for an ESTA without issue.

Who Needs to Apply for a U.S. Visa in Australia?

Most Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit the United States. If you are an Australian resident, however, then you may need a visa. Those who meet the following requirements may need a visa:

• You are an Australian passport holder and citizen but you were previously rejected from entering the U.S. with an ESTA (your ESTA application was rejected)
• You are entering the United States for purposes other than tourism or business
• You are an Australian resident but have citizenship with a country that does not fall under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program
• You are an Australian resident and have citizenship with a country that falls under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program but you were previously rejected from entering the U.S. with an ESTA, your ESTA application was rejected, or you’re visiting the United States for reasons other than tourism or business

Which U.S. Visas Are Available for Australians?

A number of different visas are available to Australian residents and citizens. Depending on the purpose of your visit to the United States, any of the visas listed below may apply to you.

Generally, U.S. visas for Australian citizens are eligible to choose one of the following two visa types:

• U.S. immigrant visas, which allow holders to live and work in the United States
• U.S. non-immigrant visas, which allow holders to visit the country short-term for business, tourism, medical treatment, education, seasonal work, etc.

E-3 U.S. Visa for Australian Citizens

The United States has a unique agreement with Australia for its E-3 visa program . Available exclusively to Australian citizens, the E-3 U.S. visa program allows Australian citizens to work in the United States at jobs that meet the following two qualifications:

• Require the applicant to possess a higher education qualification (like a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate Degree)
• Require the applicant to have specialized, practical knowledge that cannot be acquired from short-term training or education

Essentially, if you’re an educated professional or have unique skills, then you may be able to work in the United States under the E-3 U.S. visa program. The program is only available to Australian citizens and nationals of other countries cannot apply for the E-3 visa.

Typically, E-3 visa applicants include the following professions:

• Doctors and other medical practitioners
• Business executives
• Political scientists

To qualify for an E-3 visa, you must be an Australian citizen (you cannot be an Australian permanent resident). You must also have an existing job offer in the United States for a position that would qualify as a specialty occupation. Finally, the applicant must have the required educational and job experience qualifications for that specialty occupation as well as all necessary licenses required to practice that occupation.

Required Documents for Australian U.S. Visa Applicants

The specific requirements for U.S. visas vary widely depending on your visa. Generally, however, certain documents are standard requirements for Australian citizens or residents applying for a U.S. visa, including all of the following:

• Confirmation page demonstrating that you have completed the DS-160 or DS-260 application form
• Your interview appointment confirmation page
• Valid passport (passport expiry date must be at least six months beyond your anticipated date of departure from the United States)
• One blank passport page (the U.S. visa will be attached to your passport page)
• One photo (5cm x 5cm), colored and taken within the last 6 months (if you already uploaded a photo during the online DS-160 application, then you are not required to submit an additional photo)
• Previous U.S. visas and old passports if you have previously visited the United States
• An Australian National Police Certificate (from the AFP) that shows if you have ever been arrested, cautioned or convicted
• Letter from a licensed physician (if visiting the United States for medical treatment) explaining the reason for your trip to the United States and the reason why you cannot have the procedure performed in Australia
• Letter of invitation (required for certain visas that are being sponsored by a family member or employer in the United States)
• Information about any previous rejections or deportations from the United States, including the reasons for such incidents

All of the above are typically required for an ordinary visa interview to visit the United States. However, depending on your unique visa, you may require additional paperwork beyond what’s listed above.

Application Process for U.S. Visa in Australia

Applying for a U.S. visa from Australia is straightforward. Here are the basic steps you’ll need to complete:

Step 1) Check which type of U.S. visa is right for you

Step 2) Determine where you need to apply for that visa

Step 3) Complete the appropriate online form

Step 4) Pay the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee and other applicable fees

Step 5) Collect required documents prior to your embassy interview

Step 6) Schedule a visa appointment

Step 7) Attend the visa interview

Check Which Type of U.S. Visa You Need

First, check which type of U.S. visa you need. Some visas are sponsored by an employer in the United States. Or, maybe you have a spouse in the United States.

Most visas, however, will fall under the B-1 or B-2 visa type. The B-1 visa is for a short-term trip for the purpose of business, while the B-2 visa is for a short-term trip for pleasure or holiday.

Determine How to Apply for that Visa

With most visas, you can apply using the local U.S. embassy’s website. There is one U.S. embassy in Australia located in Canberra, although consulates are located in Sydney, Perth, and Melbourne. You can visit the official U.S. embassy in Australia online here: https://au.usembassy.gov/

Complete the Online Form

Most immigrant and non-immigrant visa applications require a DS-160 or DS-260 form. Complete this form online then submit it.

The form asks basic questions about your background and history. You may be asked about your education and employment, for example, as well as your biographical information.

The form will also ask various questions about your criminal background (if any). You may also be asked about your physical and mental health, or if you have ever been arrested for a drug-related offense.

Once the form has been completed, click “submit” and then print the confirmation page. You will need the printed confirmation page when you attend your interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Pay the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) Fee

Your visa application comes with a mandatory fee. Typical fees range from $160 for an ordinary B-1 visa to $205 for the E-2, E-3, and E-3 visa. You can pay the fee online using your credit or debit card. The fee can also be paid in cash or via bank transfer.

Gather Required Documents

You’ll need certain documents before scheduling your visa interview. We mentioned the standard document requirements above. However, depending on your unique visa, there may be additional requirements.

Collect your documents in advance of your visa interview. Then, bring all applicable documents to your interview.

Schedule your Interview

All U.S. visa applicants from Australia between ages 14 and 79 need to attend an in-person interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate prior to visiting the United States.

As mentioned above, the United States has embassies or consulates in Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. Your interview will need to be scheduled at one of these four locations.

Attend the Visa Interview

Arrive early for your visa interview . United States embassies often have unique security requirements. You will likely have to walk through a metal detector. You may also have to place your bags, keys, mobile device, and other items in an off-site storage locker. Bring all required documents to your interview.

Your fingerprints will be taken before or after your visa interview. The consular officer will ask basic questions about yourself, your background, and your reason for visiting the United States. Answer truthfully. The interview can last anywhere from 60 seconds to 60 minutes.

U.S. Visa Application Processing Time for Australians

Typically, an ordinary U.S. visa for an Australian resident or citizen will be processed in 3 to 5 workdays. You should find out relatively soon whether your visa has been approved or denied.

For more unique visa applications – like immigrant visa applications to the United States – applications can take as long as six months. Whether your visa has been approved or denied, your passport will be mailed to you by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

What Happens If My Visa Is Denied?

If your visa is denied , then you are free to re-apply at any time. However, if you don’t correct the reasons for your visa being denied, then you’ll likely face denial again in the future.

Unfortunately for you, all U.S. visa application fees are non-refundable. You will not have your original visa fee refunded to you. If you choose to re-apply, then you will need to pay that visa application fee once again.

By following the tips and strategies above, you can give your U.S. visa the maximum chance of approval whether you’re an Australian citizen or resident.

Australian entry requirements for U.S. citizens

U.S. nationals make up the 5th largest group of international visitors to Australia each year. Over 90,000 Americans make the trip annually.

If you’re one of the many United States citizen travelling to Australia, you must meet the entry requirements for your nationality. This includes having a valid Australian visa and meeting all health requirements.

The following page explains Australia’s entry requirements for U.S. passport holders and other useful travel information.

What do U.S. citizens need to travel to enter Australia?

Americans must have the following documents to enter Australia as a U.S. citizen:

• Valid U.S. passport
• Australia visa or travel authorization

Americans, like other international travellers, must also comply with Australia’s other travel rules, such as being in good health and not having any serious criminal convictions .

Learn more about Australia’s general entry requirements .

What Australian visa type do U.S. citizens need?

U.S. citizens have 2 visa options when travelling to Australia:

• Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) : requested online
• Embassy visa : obtained in person

ETA Australia for U.S. citizens

The ETA Australia (visa subclass 601) is the most popular choice for U.S. citizens, as the application process is completely electronic .

The travel authorization for Australia has the following features:

• Validity period : 1 year
• Number of entries : Multiple
• Length of stay : 90 days each time
• Reason for travel : Tourism, business, transit

You can request an ETA for U.S. citizens in a matter of minutes using our simple online application form . The approved travel authorization is then emailed to you.

U.S. Embassy registration with VisitAustralia

An additional benefit to applying for your ETA through our website is our embassy registration option.

U.S. citizens can automatically register with the United States Embassy in Australia through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

Benefits of registering with your embassy include:

• Travel updates and news
• Registered location in case of safety concerns
• Communication in case of an emergency back home

To register with STEP, simply select the “Embassy Registration” option on our application form.

Australian embassy visa for U.S. citizens

If the ETA Australia does not fit your travel plans, you’ll need to go to an Australian embassy or consulate in person to request a visa.

You’ll need an embassy visa if you plan to stay in Australia for longer than 90 days , or if you intend to work or study once you’re there.

There are different visas available for U.S. citizens, such as the Work and Holiday Visa (visa subclass 462), which allows you to work white you are in Australia.

You can contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate in your state to find out more about which visas they offer. Australian missions to the U.S. include:

• Australian Embassy, Washington D.C
• Australian Consulate-General, Chicago
• Australian Consulate-General, Honolulu
• Australian Consulate-General, Houston
• Australian Consulate-General, Los Angeles
• Australian Consulate-General, San Francisco
• Australian Consulate, Denver
• Australian Consulate, Miami

What are Australia’s health requirements for Americans?

Americans travelling to Australia must not represent a threat to the Australian community. In the case of health requirements, this means not having a highly infectious disease or a condition that may result in a burden to the Australian health system.

Health requirements are usually assessed through health-related questions in the visa application form . However, in rare cases, some passengers may be asked to provide health certificates or undergo medical examinations while in Australia.

Australia entry rules for U.S. citizens: FAQ

Do u.s. citizens need an australia visa.

Yes, Americans must have a valid visa to enter Australia. All foreign nationals, except New Zealand passport holders, must meet this requirement. Americans cannot enter Australia without a visa .

However, you can avoid going through an in-person visa application at an Australian diplomatic mission in the U.S. by applying for the ETA online .

What do I need to visit Australia from the U.S.?

Americans travelling to Australia must have a valid U.S. passport and an approved visa or travel authorization.

How long can U.S. citizens stay in Australia?

U.S. passport holders with a valid ETA Australia can stay in the country for up to 90 days . The document is multiple-entry, meaning you can use the same authorization to leave Australia and re-enter, staying 90 days each time.

Tourist visa to Australia for US Citizens

Key aspects.

Cheapest and fastest visa for touristic purposes.

Visa Duration

12 months total, up to 90 days each visit .

Approval time

95% of tourist visas are granted within 24 hours .

If you are planning a visit to Australia for holiday, as a US citizen you will need an Australian tourist visa (also known as “Australian vacation visa”) .

A tourist visa for Australia is technically type of ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa: a visa that you simply apply for online without having to fill in a paper form or send in your passport to any embassy. This is why a touristic ETA permit is sometimes referred to also as “electronic tourist visa” or “e-tourist” visa : filling the Australian tourist visa form directly online is all there is to do .

To be able to apply for an Australian Tourist Visa you must be travelling to Australia for holiday or for visiting friends or family, and hold a valid passport.

In-depth information on Australian Tourist Visas

• Tourist Visas for Australia for American Citizens
• Australian Tourist Visa: How to Apply
• Tourist Visa Requirements for Americans
• Process and Processing Time of Australian Tourist Visas
• Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visas

Types of Australian Tourist Visas (Alternatives to Australian Touristic ETA)

Re-entry, renewal and extension of australian tourist visas, working in australia with a tourist visa, getting married in australia on a tourist visa, australian tourist visa: costs and fees, tourist visas for australia available to american citizens.

A standard Australian tourist visa ( Electronic Travel Authorization ) authorizes visits of up to three months at a time and is valid for 12 months after the date of issue. Unlike traditional visas, there are no paper applications to complete, and you will have no visa labels or stamps in your passport. Instead, your tourist visa for Australia will be electronically attached to your passport.

United States’ citizens can apply for a tourist visa to Australia using their passport , and the passport number will then be linked to the visa. If you lose your passport or it is stolen before you enter Australia, you will need to re-apply for a new vacation visa.

Apart from the standard ETA tourism visa, there are a few more specific tourist visa types one can request in order to travel to Australia as a tourist: if you feel an ETA does not satisfy your needs, you will need to determine the most appropriate visa for you among other visa options.

The most common short-stay tourist visa types for Australia are:

• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 601
• Work and Holiday Visa – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 462
• Tourist stream – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 600

Online Tourist Visa for Australia (ETA e-Tourist)

An e-tourist visa, which is also called an ETA, is a subclass 601 visa . You can use this visa to tour Australia, visit family or friends or study or train for short-term. Business visitors can also use this visa for short-term. An ETA tourist visa is a temporary visa that is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, and it is a multiple entry visa. For each entry, you can stay up to 3 months.

You can enter and leave as many times as you want as long as it is valid. However, the ETA cannot be extended: you must get another Australian tourist visa if you want to extend your holiday or stay longer for other reasons. U.S. passport holders who are planning trips shorter than 90 days are almost always immediately eligible for electronic tourist visas (ETAs) , which will be electronically matched to the traveler’s passport in the Australian immigration official databases.

More info on Online Tourist Visas for Australia (ETA) – updated for 2024:

• Both passport holders and travel agents can apply for ETAs.
• Overstaying a short stay tourist visa in Australia could lead to exclusion, detention and removal. If you plan to stay in Australia longer than 3 months per entry, please make sure you apply instead for the Long Term visa, subclass 600.
• Once you have your online tourist visa for Australia, you can use your e-passport at the SmartGate system when you arrive in Australia.

If you are not sure what tourist visa to apply for, we recommend you apply for this kind of visa .

Tourist Stream (Subclass 600)

The Tourist Stream visa is an alternative to the ETA tourist visa, but typically slower . Getting this holiday visa for Australia, you can visit family and friends, travel the country, and study or train for up to 3 months. This visa may be valid for between three months and 12 months, and you can request it for single entry or multiple entries. You can enter and leave as often as you want as long as the Tourist Stream is valid, but you may not stay more than 12 months during 18 months. This visa is also typically more expensive than an ETA and takes longer to process . Also, immigration office can request more documents from the applicant, for example a scanned copy of passport ID page or bank statement. In general, whenever possible we recommend applying for a Tourist ETA, for a faster – 100% online – visa release process.

Work and Holiday Visa Subclass 462

Getting a tourist visa for Australia also allowing you to work is possible: this is what an Australian Work and Holiday Visa is for , as this permits allows you to work during your stay in Australia, and to travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while working or studying.

With a work and holiday visa (often referred to also as “working holiday visa”) you can have the freedom to work to pay for your holiday, or study for up to 4 months . It is a temporary visa that is valid for up to 12 months from the date you enter the country. It cannot be extended. You can remain in the country up to 12 months, and you can leave and enter Australia as often as you like. Read more about work and holiday visas for Australia .

• Apply for WHV now

Additional type-independent Australian Tourist Visa Information:

• Regardless of the type of 2024 Australian tourist visa or ETA you need, it is highly recommended that you get health insuranc e to protect you during your time in Australia. You will be responsible for any healthcare costs that you incur while you are in Australia, and proper insurance coverage will help reduce your financial liability.
• Visas are electronically linked to your passport. There is no need for stamps or labels .
• Simplify the process by applying for your ETA tourist for Australia directly online as soon as possible .

Australian Tourist Visa for US Citizens: How to Apply

U.S. citizens need visas to travel to Australia. An Australian tourist visa requested from the USA via Electronic Travel Authorization will allow you to enter Australia for up to 90 days at a time for a year from the date of issue. After the first visit, subsequent visits are at the immigration officer’s discretion.

Getting a Tourist Visa to Australia from the USA

In order to get a tourist visa to Australia from USA you must have a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months upon entering Australia in order to comply with the requirements of most airlines flying to Australia – even though not strictly required by Australian Immigration Office) and obtain your US tourist visa to Australia before arriving in the country.

You may also need to complete a medical exam depending on your condition (any medical requirement – if needed – will be specified during the online application process). Visitors may also need to provide financial information upon request to receive their tourist visa. Also in this case, any requirement – if needed – will be specified during the online application process .

It is easy to apply for a tourist visa to Australia from the USA online: simply choose the right visa for your needs and follow the instructions on-screen. Most visa requests are processed and approved instantly .

Australian Tourist Visa Requirements for Americans

The conditions and eligibility for visas can vary based on the type of visa. Most U.S. citizens are eligible for ETAs as long as they hold valid passports.

US Passport Validity and Photo Requirements

We strongly recommend that your US passport be valid for at least 6 months upon entering Australia . This is why if your passport is due to expire soon or during the time you will be travelling, you may need to get a new passport before applying. Australian tourist visa photo requirements are similar to passport photos. Please ensure your photos are accurate and current.

Documents Required to US Citizens for an Australian Tourist Visa

The document checklist can vary based on the type of visa requested: with an ETA, you will only need your passport, and the ETA permit will be electronically attached to your passport.

For other visa types, you may be asked for other identification, including the biographical pages of your passport, travel documents and the IDs of your fellow travelers. Other required documents may be requested if authorities are not satisfied as to your identity.

Funds Required for an Australian Tourist Visa

When travelling to Australia, you may be required to show proof of funds. This can include displaying a minimum bank balance on your bank statement, audits, taxation records or other proof of satisfactory employment and income. After the application is processed, in the rare case a bank statement is required by Australian Immigration in order to verify your bank balance, an immigration officer will contact you .

Medical Requirements for an Australian Travel Visa

If you are applying for a non-ETA Australian visa and plan on staying in Australia for more than 6 months, you might be required to complete a health check and a chest X-ray. This can extend your visa application process up to 20 days. You are more likely to be required to complete a medical test if you are from a high-risk area or are over 75. In these cases, Yellow Fever is the only vaccination requirement.

Australian Tourist Visa Age Limits for American Citizens

For US passport holders willing to travel from USA to Australia there is no age limit on tourist visas . Of course, anyone who is travelling to Australia without an Australian passport will need a visa on arrival – and for a child under 18, the ETA will be based on the child’s passport. This means children will need separate ETAs, using details from their passports (children who are on their parents’ passports also need their own ETAs, but the information from their parents’ passport will be used).

Process and Processing Time for Australian Tourist Visas

Visa processing time for an australian eta tourist visa (subclass 601).

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is the most commonly used Australian Tourist Visa. The process can be completed online and requires no extra application forms, no visa labels and no passport stamps.

To be eligible for and maintain your instant Australian tourist visa, you must abide by specific conditions, including – in order:

• Being free of criminal convictions
• Passing a health check as required
• Departing within the required time period
• Not working during your time in Australia
• Not engaging in study or training for more than three months

In general, the Australian tourist visa processing time for a Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) can take from 48 hours to more than a month . A Tourist ETA though – which is the most common type of tourist visa – has a much lower estimated waiting time, as it is much faster to process. An ETA e-visa for tourists can often be requested and issued just days before your planned visit . It is a 100 percent secure, paperless process, and the visa will be electronically linked to your passport just moments after it has been issued.

However, we always recommend to request your Touristic ETA Visa at least a few weeks before departure , to avoid any risk. Don’t worry though – with an ETA, you can also track your application online via an online tracking system.

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) Processing Time

The amount of time taken for an Australian tourist visa to be processed can vary based on how promptly you supply the supporting documents, your response to requests for further information, how long it takes to verify your information and peak processing times.

Also, the Australia tourist visa process is quite straightforward:

• Check that your current U.S. passport is valid.
• Apply for your visa.
• Wait for verification of receipt.
• Wait for notification of your status.

If the Australian tourist visa procedure was successful, you will be granted a visa. You can keep track of your progress using the online Australia tourist visa tracking system.

The maximum processing time for a conventional Australian tourist visa (Subclass 600) is about a month , with the waiting time ranging from 20 to 33 days in the vast majority of cases. For fast-tracked visas or ETAs, the waiting time can be mere minutes or days, especially if you have all the necessary documentation to complete the verification time.

Finally, as far as Work and Holiday Visa Processing Times are concerned, we recommend you check the dedicated page on this site .

Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visa

Tourist visas are valid for varying periods of time, depending on the type of visa.

The ETA is a 12-month tourist visa . It is a popular visa, but it is limited regarding the length of stay and only allows visitors to remain in Australia for 3 months or 90 days at a time . You can enter as often as you like as long during the one year the tourist visa is valid.

For a visit of longer duration or if you want to stay more than 3 months during any period, you will need a different Australian visa. The tourist visa stream (Subclass 600) has a length and duration that can vary based on the purpose of the stay. In most cases though, Australian tourist visa validity lasts at least 12 months .

As an example, the Australian e600 visitor visa is a 6-month tourist visa for Australia. It also allows you to stay in the country up to one year depending on the reasons for your visit. You can also enter and leave the country as needed as long as the visa is valid.

The subclass 870 visa instead is a longer-term 3-year tourist visa specifically designed for parents. With it, parents can stay in Australia for 3 or 5 years and no more than 10 years. This allows them to enter and re-enter Australia as needed to visit their stepchildren, adopted children or biological children more conveniently and affordably.

Whether you are planning an Australian trip that lasts 2 weeks, 90 days or even a year, there is a visa designed to suit your purpose. Check and apply online to find the right one for you or to explore samples of tourist visas.

There are several types of tourist visas in Australia that may apply if you do not qualify for a Tourist ETA or if the ETA does not suit you needs, such as a work and holiday visa or other types of Australian visas for tourism. Here they are:

Australian Work and Holiday Visa

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600 – Application form 1419)

The Australian tourist visa stream Subclass 600 (to which people apply using form n.1419) is a 6-month tourist visa for Australia. It also allows you to stay in the country up to one year depending on the reasons for your visit. You can also enter and leave the country as needed as long as the visa is valid.

Australian Visiting Academic Visa

The former Australia Tourist Visa 419 is closed to new applications for 2024 . However, the Tourist Visa Subclass 408 may be an alternative. This visa, which is also called the Temporary Activity Visa, allows you to participate in special approved programs, including:

• Gap year volunteer work
• Cultural enrichment programs
• Youth exchanges
• Community programs
• School language assistants

This visa is valid for up to 12 months.

Australia Tourist Visa 771 (Australia Transit Visa)

Also known as the Australian Transit Visa, this visa allows people to spend up to 72 hours in Australia to “pass through”. With this visa, you may not spend more than 72 hours in the country.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about re-entering Australia with a tourist visa, about extending your stay in Australia as a tourist or about renewing your tourist visa while you are in Australia.

Is the Australian tourist visa multiple entry?

The Australian ETA is good for 90 days at a time, also allowing multiple-entries . This means that within one year sinve when the ETA Tourist visa has been issued you can enter, leav and re-enter Australia as many times as you wish – as long as each entry lasts a maximum of 90 days.

However, if your current visa is due to expire while you are still in the country, you will need to apply for an Australian tourist visa renewal, via a Long-stay tourist visa application .

What happens if I stay too long and my Australian tourist visa has expired?

Overstaying your stay with a tourist visa in Australia will result in your becoming an “unlawful non-citizen” – which can lead to detention and removal from the country. Worse, it could interfere with your ability to re-enter Australia on a tourist visa in the future. If you overstay your visa by more than 28 days, you could even become excluded and prevented from re-entering Australia on a tourist visa for as long as 3 years. Don’t do it.

Can I change my Australian visa once I am in the country?

No, you cannot change your visa type , such as an Australia tourist visa multiple entry, once you are in the country. However, you can apply for a further stay via the Long-Stay Tourist Visa, subclass 676.

What are my other options for extending my tourist visa?

Because the consequences of an Australia tourist visa overstay can be so serious, it is critical that you apply for a tourist visa renewal or extension as soon as possible and before your visa has expired . Applying online is fast and convenient.

• Extend your visa

If you are planning to travel to Australia with a ETA Tourst Visa, you must know that it is not legal to work with an ETA . ETA-visitors have no right to “work”. However, they can do volunteer work or engage in other business activities, such as business meetings, conferences or seminars . Of course, you can stay in Australia on your tourist visa while looking for work, but once you found it you should obtain a different kind of visa in order to legally maintain your work.

However, working on a “tourist visa” in Australia is fairly common – especially for those who wish to work to pay for their holidays. If you want to legally work in Australia during your holiday though you will need a special, dedicated visa – not an ETA. This visa is called “ Work and Holiday Visa ” (often referred to also as “Working Holiday Visa”).

You can do any kind of work or jobs while on a tourist visa in Australia. However, your Work and Holiday Visa must be used within one year of the date it is issued, and it will be active for 12 months from the date you enter the country.

A working holiday visa cannot be extended: if you choose to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa. Additionally, you cannot bring dependent children or other family members with you, and you must pay taxes from anything you earn during your tourist visa working days.

The cost for a work and holiday tourist visa is of $ 625.00 as of 2024, but additional costs may also arise, including costs for police certificates, biometrics and health checks. Processing time can take from 13 to 22 days but may take longer if more information is needed or for verification purposes. Private health insurance coverage is highly recommended during your stay in the country. Read more about Work and Holiday Australian Visas for US Citizens here .

• Apply for a WHV

According to Australia Marriage Law, you do not need to be an Australian resident to get married in Australia . You simply need the tourist visa (e.g. visa subclass 651) and you must file a Notice of Intended Marriage form along with any other requested documents .

If you are planning on getting married in Australia on a tourist visa, your celebrant can help ensure you meet all necessary requirements , including that you:

• Are not married to anyone else
• Are not marrying to a closely related family member
• Are at least 18 years old
• Freely consent to the marriage

Notice that if you plan to live in Australia after marriage, you might need to apply for permanent residency as needed .

In order to obtain your Australian Tourist Visa, you will need to pay an application charge when applying for your visa – plus all costs related to the visa release. The total Australia tourist visa cost can therefore vary based on the type of visa and when you apply. Both paper applications and e-visas such as ETA tourist visa costs must be paid online , and forms of payment accepted are credit cards and PayPal.

While there are no Australia tourist visa fees associated with the ETA, there is an online service charge of $ 69.00 .

The cost of a Work and Holiday visa is instead of $ 625.00 .

The visa application fee may change periodically: if the Australian immigration tourist visa fees increase between the date of the application and the date of the receipt, the new fee will apply.

Australian Government official resources:

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to travel to the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1 visa), for tourism (B-2 visa), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2 visa).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child) is not permissible on a visitor visa.

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must meet the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should generally schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will be present but aware that in some cases it may be more difficult to demostrate your qualifications for a visa outside of the country where you live.

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note:  Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify based on their ties abroad/to their home country, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.  Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may for a visitor visa as a domestic employee if, among other requirements, your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q or TN.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC), you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

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Blog – Australian ETA and Interesting facts

Blog about Australia. Read interesting articles about Australian visa as well as other interesting facts about this beautiful country.

Australian Visa for US Citizens

June 18, 2018

Travel Tips

There are a few types of Australian visas for US citizens . However, the most convenient option is to apply for the ETA ( Electronic Travel Authority ), which is an electronic visa issued for tourism and business-related purposes.

US citizens can apply for the Australian eTA online within minutes. Continue reading to find out more about the visa requirements and the details of the online application.

APPLY ONLINE FOR AN ETA VISA CLICK TO APPLY FOR AUSTRALIAN VISA ONLINE

Does a US citizen need a visa for Australia?

• e TA for US citizens – basic information

How to apply for an Australian visa as US citizens online?

Australian visa requirements for us citizens.

All foreign nationals, with the exception of New Zealanders, must hold a valid visa in order to enter Australia . Therefore, citizens of America cannot enjoy visa-free entry to Australia .

Moreover, no visas are issued on arrival in Australia , which means that Americans are required to get an Australian visa before departure.

ETA for US citizens – basic information

US citizens are eligible for eTA to Australia (visa subclass 601) , which enables visiting Australia for the purpose of leisure, business, or transit. As a multiple-entry visa, it allows entering the country numerous times and staying there up to 3 months each time . The validity period is 1 year and it starts from the date of issue.

The eTA is quite similar to the standard visa . The only difference is the process of application. There are 8 countries in total, including the USA, that can apply for eTA to Australia.  As a holder of a valid Australian ETA, you can use it for:

• family and friend reunions

Important note:  eTA does not entitle you to work in Australia. You can only use it to handle some business affairs, such as participating in business conferences/meetings, negotiating contracts, or looking for business opportunities. US citizens wishing to move to Australia for work should consider applying for a relevant work visa or permit. For more information, they should contact the nearest Australian diplomatic mission.

*eTA can be used for short-term study purposes (courses of max. 3-month period) unless education is not your main traveling reason to go to Australia.

Not only applying online takes less time than the standard visa process, but it is also easy to manage.

Go to the Australian visa application , and simply follow three very intuitive steps

Fill out the Australian visa application form

Provide all the required details, including your personal data, contact information, passport, and travel details. Once you have completed the form, you will need to check whether all the information is correct. Only after making sure that your online form is error-free you should move to the second step.

Cover the service fee

In order to submit your ETA application, you will need to cover the service fee. There are many options for online payment , e.g, a credit/debit card or PayPal.

Once the payment has been registered, the confirmation number will be sent to the email address provided in the online application form. Make sure you have this number, as it is necessary to be able to verify the status of your application.

NOTE : The application process is quite simple and anyone can do it online.

Receive the approved Australian visa

The approved Electronic Travel Authority for Australia will be linked to your passport as soon as the Australian Government approves it. There is no need to print it out as the eTA is automatically attached to the applicant’s passport .

The customs officials will verify it by asking you to show valid passport upon arrival in Australia. Please note that the ETA processing time is an individual issue and is at the total discretion of the Australian authorities.

Some delays may occur if the submitted form contains errors, untrue information, or when the application is sent close to public holidays in Australia.

US citizens must meet certain requirements to apply for the Australian eTA. Nevertheless, these conditions are minimal and are reduced to a few documents .

Additionally, Americans traveling to Australia must also meet some health requirements and not breach the conditions of the visa, such as the traveling purpose or validity of the visa.

Required documents

To apply for eTA from the USA , it is necessary to have only one document, which is a valid US passport . Applicants from the USA with dual citizenship can use either an American or non-US passport. However, using the passport of another nationality is accepted only if the second nationality is listed among the eligible ones for the Australian eTA.

Moreover, the US nationals must use the very same passport, the details of which were provided in the eTA application, to cross the Australian borders. Showing different passport may result in some issues or even entry denial.

Please also bear in mind that a passport must remain valid for at least 6 months and have min. 1 blank page for stamping purposes. Depending on certain circumstances, some individuals may also be asked to submit some additional documents .

Other requirements

All foreign citizens, including Americans, must also meet some health requirements to enter Australia. A person arriving in Australia under no circumstances can pose a threat to Australian citizens .

The most important health requirements include not being infected with diseases such as TB. An eTA applicant must answer health-related questions when filling out the online application form. These questions help prevent entry for travelers who might pose some danger to the Australian community.

Due to the outbreak of the pandemic, the Australian authorities have also introduced some additional measures to protect the health of the general public. These regulations are constantly changing. Before traveling, please remember to check the latest updates.

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About Visa to Australia

Apply for eta australia:.

• Step1: Apply on-line
• Step2: Make an online payment
• Step3: Check your e-mail address

Visa requirements

Health requirements and panel physicians.

Australia enjoys some of the best health standards in the world. To maintain these standards, most visa applicants are required to meet certain minimum health standards in order to be granted a visa. We refer to this as meeting 'the health requirement'.

For information on meeting the health requirement visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

See the department's list of office locations to find  information on panel physicians in your location that have been approved to perform medical examinations on visa applicants outside Australia.

Character requirements

Everyone who wants to enter Australia must be of good character and will be assessed against the character requirements. Applicants must declare all recorded offences to us. If you do not declare an offence and we become aware of this it might have a negative impact on your application.

For information on how character is assessed, visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

If requested, you must provide a police certificate from each country where you have lived for a total of 12 months or more in the last 10 years, since turning 16 years of age.

Applicants currently living in the United States may be requested to obtain both a State-wide police clearance from each State of residence in the USA during the last 12 months AND an FBI clearance in their current name and any other name they are known by or have previously been known by.

If applicable, you must also provide:

• court papers listing the outcomes and dispositions of any charges listed on the FBI clearance, US State police clearance, or other police certificates/clearances
• any document(s) associated with your arrest, time served and release documents
• a written statement from you detailing each arrest/offence/conviction.

Obtaining an FBI clearance (US citizens and permanent residents)

US citizens and permanent residents can apply directly to the FBI or to one of four department approved channelers listed below to obtain an Identity History Summary Check.

Approved channelers:

• Accurate Biometrics
• National Credit Reporting
• National Background Check Inc  
• Telos Identity Management Solutions

Obtaining an FBI clearance (US temporary residents and visitors)

US temporary residents and visitors can apply directly to the FBI to obtain an Identity History Summary Check.

Obtaining a state police clearance

Apply to the relevant state police department. Please ensure the clearance is requested for all names you have been known by.

The type of certificate issued depends on individual state procedures.

The Australian Government has incorporated the collection of biometrics into the visa application process outside Australia.

Applicants lodging visa applications in selected locations, regardless of nationality, may be requested to attend an AVAC or an ABCC in person to lodge their application and/or provide their biometrics.

For more information on biometrics and collection of biometrics, visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

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Australian Visa and Entry Requirements FAQs

Learn about visa requirements for entry to Australia for tourism purposes with this list of frequently asked questions. 

Please note this page is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. For information on visas to enter Australia, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information from Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .*

Ready to plan your trip? We're ready to welcome you! Here are some helpful tips for getting your visa sorted: 

• Be sure to secure the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia. Use the Visa Finder to explore your options.
• Ensure all details are correct and provide all required documents when you apply. An incomplete or incorrect application can delay your visa.
• Submitting multiple applications at the same time can slow the process. For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children. 
• Questions? The Australian Government's Global Service Centre can help.

Australian Visa Information

Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of Australian visa types, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, via the ETA app or on the  Department of Home Affairs website.

There are different Australian visa types available for travellers to Australia. Knowing which Australian visa to apply for depends on the length of your stay, your passport and the purpose of your visit. You’ll also need to meet certain financial and medical requirements, be outside of Australia when applying and maintain health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) This visa allows you to visit Australia as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay for three months each visit. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of countries and regions, who live outside Australia. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is  here .

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app. Agents can assist you in the application process, but you must be physically present as a live facial image is required.

eVisitor  (subclass 651) This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of European countries and it cannot be extended.

Visitor visa  (subclass 600) The Visitor visa allows you to visit Australia, either for tourism or business purposes. It is open to all nationalities. Generally, a period of stay of up to three months is granted, but up to 12 months may be granted in certain circumstances. Applicants will have to pay a fee to submit their application.

The application process may differ depending on which visa you need.

You can only apply for the  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located  here .

For other visas, you can apply online by creating an ImmiAccount and completing the application process. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of your travel date to allow enough time for processing. You may be asked to provide further supporting information. You will be notified in writing if your tourist visa is approved and it will be digitally linked to your passport. For more information on different visa types, and Australian visa requirements including how to apply for an Australian visa, visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website.

If you are already in Australia and hold a valid Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) you can extend your stay by applying for another visa, such as a Visitor visa (subclass 600). An eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot be extended.

See the Department of Home Affairs website for details.

Working Holiday Visas

Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions.

Find out more about working holiday visas here .

*Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check this information is still current by visiting the Australian Department of Home Affairs .

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Visa requirements for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel outside the U.S., you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool . On the country’s information page, you will find entry, exit, and visa requirements. You will also find travel advisories and a link to the country’s embassy.

LAST UPDATED: May 15, 2024

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Australia ETA Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Citizens of the Unites States can travel to Australia with a Subclass 601 Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) .

With an ETA, Americans can go to Australia on holiday, to visit family or friends , or to carry out some business activities .

If you’re a U.S. passport holder, you can find out below if you qualify for the ETA , and what you need to apply.

Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa for Australia?

As a U.S. citizens, you need to apply for an ETA before your trip to Australia . The online application is quick and simple.

With an approved ETA, Americans can visit Australia multiple times in a 12-month period, for up to 3 months per stay.

To be eligible, U.S. passport holders must be travelling to Australia:

• For tourism, including to take a cruise
• To visit family or friends
• On business

If you are an American citizen and travelling for different reasons, or for longer than 3 months, you need a different type of Australian visa .

Which business activities are allowed in Australia with an ETA?

American business travellers can apply for an ETA for:

• General business enquiries
• Official government visit activities
• Negotiatiation, investigation, and entering a business contract
• Conferences, seminars, trade fairs (you must not be getting paid to take part)

Check the specific activities you wish to carry out are permitted with the ETA. To work in Australia, you must hold the relevant visa.

Conditions to apply for an Australia ETA from the United States

American citizens must meet a few eligibility requirements to apply for an ETA . You must:

1. Be a genuine visitor

This means you must only intend to stay in Australia temporarily, as per the conditions of the visa. Your ETA can be cancelled if you are found not to be a genuine visitor.

2. Meet health requirements

You must meet minimum health standards to ensure you’re not a risk to public health in Australia. A health examination could be requested.

3. Meet character requirements

If you have a criminal conviction , you’ll need to apply for a Visitor Visa (sublass 600) instead of an ETA.

How do I apply for an Australian visa from the USA?

Provided you meet the above requirements, you can bet started with your ETA application from the U.S . Here are the 3 steps to follow:

• Fill out the online ETA application form
• Review and submit your application
• Recevie the approved ETA by email

The information you need to provide includes name and date of birth, passport details, and basic travel information.

Make sure you provide accurate information , mistakes could delay your application or prevent it from being approved.

How long does it take to get an Australian visa from the U.S.?

Americans who are eligible for the Australian ETA benefit from fast processing and approval times .

Most applicants from the United States receive their approved ETA by within 2 days . Travellers are advised to apply as soon as possible before their trip in case of any unexpected delays.

Americans who require different type of visa such as a Visitor Visa should apply well in advance of their planned departure date.

Apply for a new ETA when your passport expires

The approved ETA will be linked digitally to your passport , you will not get a sticker in your passport.

You must apply for a new ETA if your current passport expires or you get a new passport. The passport you use to travel must have a valid ETA linked to it.

Register with the U.S. embassy in Australia

You can now register with the U.S. embassy in Australia when applying for an ETA. Select the Embassy Registration option when you reach the payment page and Australia Go eVisa will take care of the rest—no need to fill out additional forms.

Benefits include:

Safety and security notifications

The embassy can quickly contact and inform you if there are safety or security concerns, such as natural disasters, during your stay.

Assistance in emergencies

In the event of an emergency, the embassy or consulate can provide aid to U.S. citizens in Australia. This could include evacuation assistance or providing information on local resources.

Ease of communication

Registering helps family and friends get in touch with you if there is an emergency back home in the United States.

By enrolling you can enjoy greater peace of mind throughout your stay in Australia.

FAQ About  U.S. Citizens Traveling to Australia

How long can a us citizen stay in australia without a visa.

US citizens need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority to enter Australia and remain for any length of time. American passport holders can stay in Australia for up to 90 days with the Australia ETA.

The Australia ETA is valid for short business trips and tourist activity in Australia. It is quick to apply for an ETA online, most applications are reviewed and approved within 24 hours.

The Electronic Travel Authority is valid for 12 months from the issue date and multiple trips of up to 3 months can be made throughout the year using the same travel permit.

Can US citizens obtain a visa on arrival in Australia?

Americans cannot get a visa on arrival in Australia. Australia does not issue visas on arrival , all visitors must obtain the relevant travel document before departure.

US passport holders going to Australia for tourism or business purposes must apply online for an ETA before beginning their journey.

With an Electronic Travel Authority, Americans can enter Australia and stay in the country for up to 3 months. The ETA application is quick to complete and processing is fast; many applications are approved within minutes.

US citizens are advised to apply for the Australia ETA at least 1 or 2 days before departure .

How can US citizens obtain an Australian ETA?

American passport holders can apply for the Australian ETA online . Applicants must meet all the ETA requirements to be eligible.

The first step to obtaining the visa is to complete the online ETA application form. Basic personal information such as the name, date of birth, and address of the applicant is required.

Americans should check the information they provide carefully before submitting a request as any mistakes could lead to delays and even rejection. The next stage in the process is to pay the ETA fees using a credit or debit card and submit the application for review.

Most ETA applications are processed within 24 hours . On approval, the authorisation is automatically linked to the applicant’s passport.

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Australia ETA requirements for U.S. citizens explained

Australia is a popular destination for American travelers, whether you're planning to visit for tourism or business, understanding the Australian visa requirements for U.S. citizens is essential to ensure a smooth trip.

In this blog, find out all you need to know about applying for your Australia ETA , the easy online application process , and requirements.

Australia Visa requirements for U.S. citizens

U.S. citizens must apply for a valid Australian Visa. They are eligible to apply for the Australia ETA (Subclass 601) online with us or directly with the Australian Government .

Eligibility requirements for an ETA for U.S. citizens

To be eligible for an ETA to enter Australia, you must meet the following requirements:

Hold a valid U.S. passport .

You're traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes only.

You will stay in Australia for 90 days or less .

You can't be in Australia at the time of your application.

Prove that you do not have tuberculosis or have a criminal record .

What is an ETA for Australia?

The ETA for U.S. citizens, also called an electronic travel authority , allows tourism or business trips of up to 90 days.

An Australia ETA doesn't allow you to work in Australia. If that is the case, you'll need to apply for a different type of visa and can contact the Australian Embassy for more information.

How long is the Australia ETA valid?

It is a Multiple entry document , valid for 1 year after issue, and linked to the traveler's passport electronically, eliminating the need for a sticker or stamp. That means no embassy visits!

It's important to note that the 90-day stay limit applies to each visit and is not a cumulative total for the 12-month validity period of the ETA. If you want to stay in Australia for longer than 90 days or work in the country, apply for a different type of visa, such as a Working Holiday Visa.

How to apply for an Australian ETA online with us

Follow these three simple steps:

First , fill out the online form with your personal information and passport details.

Second , double-check the information to ensure no mistakes. If everything looks good, select the preferred processing time and pay the visa fees with a credit or debit card.

Third , upload any required documents and submit your application. Before the Australian authorities process it, we will do a careful review to avoid issues.

When approved, your ETA will be linked to your passport electronically, and you’ll receive a confirmation by email .

Required documents to get an Australian ETA for U.S. passport holders

When applying with iVisa, the process is simple and straightforward. Our application form is easy and quick to fill out . You will need the following documents to apply:

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Australia.
• Means of online payment: You’ll be required to pay online on our secure platform. You can use a credit or debit card.
• Email address: You don’t have to print out the ETA, but we use email as a means of communication.

Can U.S. Green Card holders apply for an Australian ETA?

Unfortunately, holders of a U.S. Green Card can’t always apply for the online ETA. It depends on the passport they hold.

Green card holders can use our Visa Checker Tool to find out if they are eligible for the ETA or must apply for a visa.

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

If you have any questions or concerns about obtaining an ETA or other travel documents for Australia, please contact our customer service team via online chat or WhatsApp . Apply now

Related Articles

Do americans need Visa for australia?

Do Americans Need a Visa for Australia?

As a U.S. citizen, you’re likely wondering if you need a visa to visit or live in Australia. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on the purpose and length of your stay. In this article, we’ll break down the requirements and regulations to help you navigate the process.

Citizens of the United States are exempt from a visa

For Tourism or Visiting

• As a U.S. citizen, you’re eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or an eVisitor visa , which allows you to stay in Australia for up to 3 months .
• You don’t need to apply for a visa before arrival, as you’ll receive an ETA or eVisitor visa upon arrival or when you book your flights.
• The ETA or eVisitor visa is valid for multiple entries and can be used for both business and tourism purposes.

For Business or Work

• If you plan to stay in Australia for more than 3 months or for work purposes, you’ll need to apply for a Business Visitor visa (subclass 456) or a Work visa (subclass 482) .
• The Business Visitor visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to 12 months , while the Work visa has different streams and durations depending on your occupation and employer.

For Education or Study

• If you’re a student or scholar, you’ll need to apply for a Student visa (subclass 500) or a Research visa (subclass 500) .
• The Student visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your study program, while the Research visa is for researchers and scholars participating in research projects.

For Immigration or Permanent Residency

• If you’re planning to migrate to Australia or become a permanent resident, you’ll need to apply for a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or a Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) .
• You’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria, including age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Visa Requirements and Documents

• Passport : Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Australia.
• Photocopies : Make photocopies of your passport, visa application, and any supporting documents.
• Financial Evidence : You may need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
• Travel Insurance : You may need to purchase travel insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay in Australia.

Tips and Reminders

• Application Process : Apply for your visa well in advance of your trip to ensure processing and avoid any last-minute issues.
• Supporting Documents : Ensure you provide all required supporting documents to avoid delays or rejections.
• Visa Requirements : Check the Australian Government’s website for the most up-to-date visa requirements and changes.
• Travel Restrictions : Check the Australian Government’s website for any travel restrictions or advisories before traveling to Australia.

In conclusion, while U.S. citizens are exempt from a visa for tourism or visiting, they may need to apply for a visa for other purposes such as business, work, education, or immigration. It’s essential to understand the visa requirements and regulations to ensure a smooth trip to Australia. Remember to apply in advance, provide all required supporting documents, and check for any travel restrictions or advisories.

Table: Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Note: This article provides general information and is not intended to be used as legal advice. It’s essential to check the Australian Government’s website for the most up-to-date visa requirements and regulations.

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Passports, visas and API

If you're looking to make a smooth start to your journey, you need to make sure you have the right documents, such as a valid passport and the relevant visas.

To help, we've summarised some of the key considerations and requirements here, but it's not a full list of all possible requirements around the world. It's your responsibility to ensure you have the right documents to be allowed to travel.

Passports and ID cards

To travel on an international flight your passport must:

• Be valid for the required time after your planned return date . This is often at least three or six months after the day you plan to leave your destination. Check the Expiry Date on your passport.
• Meet the specific passport validity requirements for your destination. Check the IATA Travel Centre for more information.
• Be signed by its owner. Please ensure each passport is signed with the owner's signature . You may be denied entry or fined in some countries for travelling with an unsigned passport. More information is available for UK passport holders at HM Passport Office .

If you are not an EU national and wish to travel on an international flight to an EU member state (except Ireland) or any of the following Schengen zones — Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City — your passport must:

• Have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country . Check the Date of Issue on your passport and see the UK Government advice for further information.

If you are not an EU national and wish to travel on an international flight to anywhere other than an EU member state (excluding Ireland) or one of the Schengen zones listed above , your passport must meet the entry requirements of the destination country. Please check the UK Government advice for entry requirements for specific countries.

Children's passports

Children need their own passports to travel internationally, including infants under two. Infant and children's passports are only valid for five years, so please check the expiry date before departure.

EU, EEA or Swiss national ID cards

These are are no longer accepted as valid documentation for entering the UK, unless you’re exempt. Please check the latest UK Government advice for more details.

Please note, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have valid documentation when you travel. If you fail to comply with these requirements, you may not be allowed to travel, or you may be refused entry at your destination and have to pay associated costs.

You do not require a passport to travel within the UK, but you will need to carry one type of photographic ID when travelling with us. Examples include:

• Valid passport
• Valid driving licence, either provisional or full
• Valid EU national identity card
• Valid armed forces identity card
• Valid police warrant card or badge

Children under the age of 16 do not need to show identification when travelling on domestic flights. The adult they are travelling with must travel with photographic identification and be able to confirm their identity.

Children aged 14 and 15 years who are flying alone will need to show identification when travelling on domestic flights. Find more information on the requirements for young flyers travelling alone, including a copy of our consent form.

If you are a citizen of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands or Isle of Man and were born in these areas, you do not need a passport to travel between these destinations, but you do require some form of photographic identification, such as a driving licence.

All other travellers require a valid passport to travel between these destinations.

Processing times for passports vary but it may take six weeks or longer to receive a passport after applying, so we advise that you wait until your passport has arrived before making a booking. Many countries offer fast-track applications where required.

If you need a passport or need to renew an existing one you can apply directly to your nation’s passport office. In the UK, that’s the UK passport service .

If there is a place on your passport for you to sign, please sign your passport with your signature. Your passport is not valid until it is signed . For British passports, you can learn more from HM Passport Office .

If you’d like help with your application , British Airways has partnered with VisaCentral, a company that will do all of the hard work for you. VisaCentral can help with passport renewals and replacements, name changes, second passports and new passports for children. Plus, as a British Airways customer you’ll get a 30% discount on the service fees.

Visas and other travel documentation

How to check if you need a visa

Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your journey, you may need a visa, or an equivalent form of authorisation, for every country you enter as part of your journey — even if you are only in transit or connecting from one flight to another in the airport of that country without going through border control — known as a transit visa.

This is in addition to a valid passport.

There are several ways you can check if you need a visa:

Check if you need a visa via the IATA Travel Centre  — it's free to check and also includes passport and health requirements, as well as customs, currency and airport information.

If you need a visa, our partner VisaCentral can help  — it's free to check and they’ll tell you exactly what documents you need to get one. Plus, as a British Airways customer, you’ll get a 30% discount on VisaCentral service fees should you need help with an application.

Check if you need a transit visa to connect through the UK  — even if you’re only connecting from one flight to another, you may need a transit visa, such as a Direct Airside Transit (DATV) visa or a Visitor in Transit visa, to connect through the UK.

Check if you need a visa via the Sherpa online search tool below . Sherpa can also help obtain many e-visas, and advise of other possible information you may need for your travels.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

An ETA will soon be required for people travelling to the UK who do not need a visa, including children and babies. It will be electronically linked to your passport and will give you permission:

To visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or to study.

To visit the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession .

To transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through the UK border control.

An ETA will be required from 15 November 2023 when travelling from certain countries, with more being added to the scheme over time. Please check if you require an ETA .

Read further information and apply for an ETA or watch more about ETA .

Please note that the sherpa widget will only display in the 'View as published mode' and provided the checkbox for the same is enabled in the page properties - Basic tab.

Please note that Sherpa is a third party service provider that may apply fees for such services. The information provided on this page is for information purposes only and could be subject to change at very short notice. It is your responsibility to check and observe all the health and entry requirements applicable to your journey and you should always check the latest travel guidance from your government before you travel and the guidance provided by the relevant public authorities of your destination. Failure to meet applicable requirements means that British Airways will not be able to carry you, and compensation and care and assistance provisions will not apply. 

Entry requirements and other travel documents

If you're a citizen of a country covered by the Visa Waiver Programme (such as the UK) you are able to travel to the USA with an Electronic System Travel Authorisation (ESTA) instead of a visa.

Make sure you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure. You may not be allowed to travel if you arrive at the airport without an ESTA.

You will need a valid e-Passport to use ESTA. These have a microchip symbol on their front cover. ESTAs are valid for multiple journeys for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.

Apply for an ESTA

More about the Visa Waiver Program and ESTAs

When you need a visa

You will need to apply for a visa to travel to the United States and should contact your local US Embassy in the following circumstances:

• If you are a citizen of a country not covered by the Visa Waiver Programme.
• If you have dual nationality with one passport being issued by a country eligible under the Visa Waiver Programme and the other issued by Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria.
• If you have an ESTA and have visited Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria since 1 March 2011.

Help with your ESTA application

Our partner VisaCentral can take the hard work out of applying, and offers a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your ESTA. Benefits of using its service include:

• Specialist support – access to a visa specialist via phone or email if you have questions regarding your application.
• Automated monitoring - applications not instantly approved automatically get resubmitted or assigned to a visa specialist for review; there’s no need to re-apply.
• Discounted rate – get a 30% discount on VisaCentral's handling fees as a British Airways customer.

Many visitors need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization to travel to Canada. You can check Canada’s entry requirements before flying.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization for you.

If you're travelling to China, you'll need to check what type of visa you require. Transit visas are available if you are staying for less than 144 hours.

If you have a British passport, find out more about visa requirements when travelling to or through China.

If you have a passport from any other country, please ensure you check with your nearest Chinese Embassy .

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain a Visa for you.

If you are travelling to India, you may be able to obtain an eTourist Visa online, just four days before you travel. The visa will be valid for 60 days and you will need to present a printed copy when you check in to be able to travel.

Find out more and apply for India e-Tourist Visa.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an eTourist Visa for you.

While we make every effort to keep this information up to date, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) visa restrictions can change at short notice. Please check the IATA Travel Centre before you book.

Get a visa through VisaCentral.

If you are a pilgrim

If you are a Hajj or Umrah pilgrim, you must enter KSA through Jeddah with a valid Hajj or Umrah visa. Travel must be between the official pilgrimage travel dates.

You cannot:

• travel for Hajj using an Umrah visa
• travel for Umrah using a Hajj visa
• enter, transfer or transit through Riyadh
• travel outside of the official pilgrimage dates determined by the Saudi authorities each year

If you are travelling from the UK, we recommend to book through our specialist partner Masterfare who can arrange your flight and Hajj/Umrah visa through a KSA Ministry of Hajj approved agent.

If you are travelling from another country, or you book on ba.com, it is your responsibility to ensure you get the correct pilgrimage visa from a KSA Ministry of Hajj-approved Hajj or Umrah agent.

If you do not have the correct documentation, or have booked to travel outside the official pilgrimage dates, you will not be allowed to travel or be able to get a refund.

Non-pilgrim visitors

If you are not Muslim, you can enter Jeddah or Riyadh at any time using a business or visit visa.

If you are Muslim, are using a business or visit visa during Hajj, or are travelling in the 6-week period up to and including Hajj, you must enter KSA through Riyadh.

If you are Muslim with a business or visit visa, you will need a Hajj visa to travel during the official pilgramage travel dates.

These restrictions do not apply to residents or citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

KSA visa restrictions change at short notice. Please check the IATA Travel Centre before you book.

Some countries' immigration departments require additional documentation for all children under 18 years travelling into, out of or transiting their country. This varies depending on the country so please check before you travel on the IATA Travel Centre. Just make sure you use the date of birth of your child to receive the correct information.

If you need a visa for your journey, you can apply directly with the embassy or high commission of the country you want to travel to — visit their website or local consulate to learn more about the process.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can do all of the hard work for you:

• it's a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your visa
• it can help save time — VisaCentral will stand in line at the embassy or consulate on your behalf
• you'll get a 30% discount on handling fees as a British Airways customer

Advance Passenger Information (API)

Many countries require us to collect some passport and travel information about who's flying into their country. The information you provide is sent securely to the necessary government authorities.

You will need to supply some or all of the following details:

• your full name (as it appears on your passport)
• your date of birth
• your gender
• your nationality
• your passport number
• your passport expiry date
• the country that issued your passport
• your country of residence.

Additionally, when travelling to the US, you will need to provide:

• the destination address of your first night’s stay
• Alien Registration Number (Green Card) for those who have US residency
• Traveler Redress Number if you have one (this enables travellers who have experienced problems entering the US to avoid future difficulties).

If you're a US citizen and have a 'Global Entry' number, you don't need to provide this as part of your API. When you arrive in the US your Global Entry status will be recognised when you use the dedicated Immigration kiosk.

Some governments require us to provide them with information from flight bookings, which will contain additional passenger details to those listed above.

You can add Advance Passenger Information to your booking on ba.com using Manage My Booking . If there is any information you need to provide, you'll see a red exclamation mark against the passenger information section at the top of the page.

Legal statement for US flights

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the US Department of Homeland Security requires us to collect information from you for purposes of watch list screening, under the authority of 49 U.S.C. section 114, and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Providing this information is voluntary; however, if you don't provide it, you may be subject to additional screening or denied transport or authorisation to enter the post-security area. TSA may share information you provide with law enforcement or intelligence agencies or others under its published system of records notice. For more on TSA Privacy policies, or to view the system of records notice and the privacy impact assessment, visit tsa.gov .

Travel Schemes

If you are a national of one of the below countries you can join the 'Registered Traveller' scheme and enjoy faster entry to the UK, as long as you have a biometric passport.

When you apply, the UK Border Force carries out checks to see if you are eligible to join. If accepted, you won't need to fill out a landing card for the UK. You'll be able to enter the UK at the ePassport gates or the UK/EU lanes at several UK airports, including all London airports, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

UK citizens can get through US passport control faster by joining Global Entry, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) programme. The scheme allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers arriving in the United States. Benefits include:

• no processing queues
• no requirement to complete a paper customs declaration form
• reduced waiting times
• TSA Pre✓® Eligibility (faster, more efficient security screening at participating US airports).

Membership lasts for five years and the application process includes background checks (at a non-refundable cost of £42 payable to the UK government), online enrolment with the US Customs and Border Protection Agency (at a non-refundable cost of USD100) and attendance at a face to face interview at an official enrolment centre.

More about Global Entry and FAQs

We participate in the TSA Pre✓® programme for customers with a Known Traveller Number (KTN) departing from US airports. TSA Pre✓® is a faster, easier security screening process at US airports. Once enrolled, you will be able to speed through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

Who is eligible?

• Members of the Global Entry scheme.
• US citizens and US lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS or SENTRI. 
• Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS. 

Enter your Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS or SENTRI membership number (your KTN) into your booking each time you travel to demonstrate your eligibility. You can add your KTN during online check-in via Manage My Booking on ba.com, at an airport desk or by contacting us .

Even if you are eligible for TSA Pre✓® as a member of a trusted traveller programme, TSA Pre✓® does not guarantee expedited screening.

Find out where TSA Pre✓® is available .

Where a TSA Pre✓® lane is not available, you can show your TSA Pre✓® boarding pass and may receive a form of expedited screening in a standard lane.

You can now submit an electronic arrival card via the Web Service and Mobile App before you arrive in Singapore. You will then be able to head directly to immigration clearance, allowing you to avoid unnecessary delays and save time at the airport.

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VIDEO : Australian tourists will now need a 'visa' for parts of Europe

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Planning a Euro holiday for 2025? You'll have to sort out one more thing before your flight departs.

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It's a terrible time to be an international student. Australia is the latest country to limit visas.

• Australia plans to cut new international student enrollment by a third next year.
• The cap follows a surge in international students post-pandemic, straining the rental market.
• Similar measures in Canada aim to reduce housing costs and improve education quality.

Australia is capping new international students next year, in an effort to curb record migration.

The country plans to limit international student enrollments to 270,000 in 2025, Australian education minister announced on Tuesday. In 2023, there were just over 400,000 new international students.

"There's about 10% more international students in our universities today than before the pandemic, and about 50% more in our private vocational and training providers," education minister Jason Clare said in a press briefing on Tuesday. "These reforms are designed to make it better and fairer, and set it up on a more sustainable footing going forward."

The government will assign each university or vocational institute an individual limit.

Australia has about 718,000 total international students , primarily from China , India, and Nepal, according to 2024 education department figures .

Curbs on migration were first announced in December, when Australia said it would tighten visa scrutiny for graduates and require students to secure higher scores on their English proficiency tests.

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The restrictions come after a period of concessions to encourage foreign workers and students who left during the pandemic to return to Australia. That created an influx of foreigners, which worsened the pressure on the country's tight rental market.

Clare added that the restrictions will also limit the amount of "shonks" — people and businesses exploiting the demand for international education in Australia. Authorities have previously said that some providers participate in unethical practices or scams, such as recruiting students who are not proficient enough in English to do well, luring students with the promises of jobs , or promising tuition fee discounts to those who recruit other students.

Canada announced similar limitations earlier this year, in an effort to bring down the costs of buying and renting homes.

Canada's immigration agency said in January that it will cap the number of acceptances for international study permits. The move is expected to cut the number of students by 35% compared to last year and reduce the number of " puppy mills " that provide poor-quality education.

According to a study by education consultant IDP, the US, Australia, the UK, and Canada are hotspots for those seeking international education, with countries like Germany, New Zealand, and Ireland gaining interest in recent years.

Since May 2023, the UK has clamped down on international students bringing their families on all student visas, except postgraduate research and those with government scholarships. The changes have also reduced the number of people using student passes as a loophole to work. The government forecast that the changes would lead to 140,000 fewer people coming to the country.

In the US,  dwindling chances  of landing a work visa after graduation because of the H-1B lottery system have made the country less attractive for some foreign students. A Trump-era executive order  denying visas to Chinese graduate students also slashed the number of enrollments.

Watch: Just the Facts – Immigration: Steve Ballmer talks through the numbers

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