australia travel visa free

Australian Passport

The Australian passport allows access to 150 countries without a visa. It also grants access to 44 e-visas and 23 visas on arrival. However, a visa is required in 36 countries.

Australia, with a population of approximately 26 million, is a highly developed nation. The Australian passport ranks high in global passport rankings. It is a powerful passport, providing its holders with extensive travel freedom.

In terms of visa-free entry, the Australian passport is among the top-ranked passports in the world. This is beneficial for Australian citizens who enjoy international travel. It is a significant advantage for both leisure and business purposes.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for Australian passport holders are Malaysia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, China and Taiwan .

Visa free countries

So, where can Australians travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where Australia citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

• 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
• 🇦🇩 Andorra (90 days)
• 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
• 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
• 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
• 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
• 🇨🇿 Czech Republic (90 days)
• 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
• 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
• 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
• 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
• 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
• 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
• 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
• 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 Ireland (3 months)
• 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
• 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
• 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
• 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
• 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (90 days)
• 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
• 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
• 🇸🇲 San Marino (90 days)
• 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
• 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
• 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland (90 days)
• 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
• 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days)
• 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands (N/A)
• 🇦🇽 Åland Islands (3 months)
• 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (N/A)
• 🇧🇾 Belarus (Visa-free for 10 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (Right to live and work under the Svalbard Treaty.)
• 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
• 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
• 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
• 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
• 🇱🇸 Lesotho (14 days)
• 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
• 🇲🇺 Mauritius (90 days)
• 🇲🇦 Morocco (3 months)
• 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
• 🇷🇼 Rwanda (30 days)
• 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
• 🇹🇳 Tunisia (3 months)
• 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
• 🇾🇹 Mayotte (3 months)
• 🇷🇪 Réunion (3 months)
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (1 month)
• 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas (3 months)
• 🇧🇧 Barbados (6 months)
• 🇧🇿 Belize (30 days)
• 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
• 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
• 🇨🇦 Canada (6 months)
• 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
• 🇩🇲 Dominica (6 months)
• 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (90 days)
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
• 🇸🇻 El Salvador (3 months)
• 🇬🇩 Grenada (3 months)
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
• 🇭🇹 Haiti (3 months)
• 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
• 🇯🇲 Jamaica (30 days)
• 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
• Netherlands (90 days)
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
• 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
• 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
• 🇵🇪 Peru (90 days)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 month)
• 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
• 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
• 🇺🇾 Uruguay (3 months)
• 🇻🇪 Venezuela (90 days)
• 🇬🇱 Greenland (N/A)
• 🇬🇫 French Guiana (3 months)
• 🇵🇲 Saint Pierre and Miquelon (3 months)
• 🇦🇼 Aruba (30 days, extendable to 180 days)
• 🇨🇼 Curaçao (90 days)
• 🇸🇽 Sint Maarten (90 days)
• 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months)
• 🇧🇲 Bermuda (Up to 6 months, decided on arrival.)
• 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (30 days, extensions possible)
• 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (6 months)
• 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (A visitor permit is normally issued as a stamp in the passport on arrival, The maximum validity period is 1 month.)
• 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
• 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
• 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (Under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA required.)
• 🇻🇪 Venezuela (All visitors are fingerprinted.)
• 🇦🇲 Armenia (180 days)
• 🇹🇼 China (15 days)
• 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
• 🇮🇱 Israel (3 months)
• 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
• 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
• 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (3 months)
• 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
• 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 30 days)
• 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
• 🇶🇦 Qatar (30 days)
• 🇸🇬 Singapore (90 days)
• 🇹🇯 Tajikistan (30 days)
• 🇹🇭 Thailand (60 days)
• 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (30 days)
• 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
• 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)
• 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days; May enter using eGate.)
• 🇭🇰 Hong Kong (90 days)
• 🇲🇴 Macau (30 days)
• 🇹🇼 China (30 days. Available at Haikou Meilan International Airport and Sanya Phoenix International Airport.)
• 🇮🇷 Iran (Tourists for Kish Island do not require a visa.)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (These states have their own immigration authorities and passport is required to travel to them, however the same visa applies.)
• 🇻🇳 Vietnam (30 days)
• 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
• 🇰🇮 Kiribati (120 days)
• 🇫🇲 Micronesia (30 days)
• 🇳🇿 New Zealand (Indefinitely)
• 🇼🇸 Samoa (60 days)
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)
• 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (90 days within 180 days)
• 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (3 months)
• 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna (3 months)
• 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (31 days)
• 🇳🇺 Niue (30 days)
• 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days visa free and landing fee 35 USD or tax of 5 USD if not going ashore.)
• 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days)
• 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 9/1/2024.

• Timor-Leste visa free countries
• Indonesia visa free countries
• Papua New Guinea visa free countries

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.

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Visa Requirements for Australia

The most common visa for visiting Australia as a tourist is an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). This allows most foreigners to stay in the country for three months at a time, as often as they'd like within a 12-month period. Some travelers can avoid the $15 service charge of the ETA by getting an eVisitor visa instead. This is granted only to those whose countries have strong ties to Australia, and takes longer to process. Other short-term visas include the standard visitor visa (available for up to one year) and working holiday visas, which are designed to let young tourists work temporary jobs while they travel. People from New Zealand don't need any kind of visa to visit their island neighbor.

As for longer-term stays, Australia offers visas for students and workers, as well as permanent resident visas to sponsored employees and family members.

Electronic Travel Authority

Most tourists—except those from New Zealand and who qualify for the eVisitor visa—must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority, better known as an ETA, to visit Australia for up to three months. Designed for those who do not meet the requirements of the eVisitor visa (which is only available to nationals of European countries), this is the most common tourist visa, available to citizens of the U.S., Canada, U.K., and the 30 other countries listed on the Australian Government website .

Visa Fees and Application

The ETA (subclass 601) is valid for tourism or business travel (including cruise ship stopovers) for up to three months, as often as desired within a 12-month period.

• Applicants must have a valid passport from an eligible country, meet the health requirements of the Australian Government   , and intend only to stay in the country temporarily.
• The ETA itself is free, but the service charge is about $15 (AUD 20)
• It must be applied for outside of Australia and can be submitted online .
• ETAs can't be extended. In order to stay longer, you must apply for another ETA or a different visa   .
• ETA applications can be submitted anywhere from a couple of days to a year in advance of your trip. Allow 72 hours for processing, but in most cases, you'll receive a response within minutes.

eVisitor Visa

More than 30 European countries, including France, Italy, the UK, Germany, Spain, and the Scandinavian nations qualify for the eVisitor visa (subclass 651)—essentially a free version of the ETA. Like the ETA, an eVisitor visa is valid for unlimited business or leisure stays of up to three months within a 12-month period. It can also be used for short-term study and training.

One major reason to apply for an ETA instead of an eVisitor visa is because of the processing time.

• In order to qualify, applicants must hold a valid passport from one of the qualifying countries and must not have tuberculosis or a criminal conviction.
• The eVisitor visa is fully free. No application fees or service charges are required.
• It must be applied for outside of Australia and can be submitted online.
• Whereas ETAs are typically processed on the same day, eVisitor visas can take anywhere between three days and several months to process. According to the Australian Government, 90 percent of applications are processed within nine months   . It's best to apply for it a year in advance of your trip.
• The eVisitor visa can't be extended.

Visitor Visa

The standard visitor visa (subclass 600) is a more comprehensive version of the ETA and eVisitor visas. It can be granted for three, six, or 12 months at a time, as opposed to just three   . It's good for frequent visits and longer stays on the basis of travel, family, or business.

The requirements and cost of the visitor visa—also called a "tourist stream"—varies by circumstance.

• Business visitors will only be granted three-month stays on the tourist stream, but family members may be granted 12 months.
• In order to apply, you must have a valid passport, enough funds to cover your trip, and an intention to leave Australia after the visa expires.
• The cost of the visa varies: Applying from Australia costs AUD 365 ($260), applying from outside of Australia costs AUD 145 ($100), applying for business or to visit family costs $100, and applying for the frequent traveler stream (meaning you can get unlimited three-months visits within a 10-year period) costs AUD 1065 ($760).
• In some cases, sponsors (i.e. family members) may be asked to pay an additional security bond.
• Processing can take from 10 days to four months.

Student Visa

Australia's student visa (subclass 500) is granted to people aged six and older for up to five years, depending on your enrollment   . Applicants must provide proof of acceptance into an Australian course of study, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) unless you fall into an exemption category, and provide what's called a " welfare arrangement " (either a legal guardian who has a visa to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies or arrangements with your school) if you're under 18. The student visa costs AUD 620 ($445) and can be applied for online while in or out of Australia. It also covers any family members who come with you and allows students to work up to 40 hours per week while studying. It can take anywhere between one and four months for processing, depending on the circumstance. Student visas do not qualify for extensions. In order to stay for longer, students must apply for another student visa.

There are several different Australian visas on offer for prospective workers. Whereas the visitor visa allows non-citizens to stay in the country for three months on the premise of business, it doesn't allow you to earn a wage from an Australian institution like its work visas do. The three primary options are a working holiday visa, designed for travelers between the ages of 18 and 30 (35 for Canadian, French, and Irish nationals) to holiday and work in Australia for 12 months   , a temporary work visa for skilled workers   , and a permanent work visa, which requires employer sponsorship and grants permanent resident status in Australia   .

Only passport holders from the more-than-40 eligible countries (including the U.S., Canada, the UK, the EU, Japan, South Korea, Scandinavian countries, and others) qualify for the working holiday scheme. Each country is offered a certain number of slots, so applications are picked randomly from a pool.

Family Visas

Family visas are granted to partners, parents, children, and grandparents of Australian citizens and residents. There are more than 20 different types of family visas, from adoption visas to carer and remaining relative visas, and each of them has its own price and set of requirements.

For couples, the partner visa costs around $5,500 and requires proof of the relationship   . It must be applied for from within Australia and can take up to two years to process. The permanent visa offered to parents of Australian residents and citizens costs slightly less, $4,600, and must be applied for from outside Australia   . The Australian Government does not give processing times for the parent visa because of the possibility of capping and queueing.

Transit Visa

The transit visa (subclass 771) is good for short stopovers of up to 72 hours. It's free, can be applied for easily online , and requires only a confirmed booking and a valid visa. Travelers must apply and be granted the transit visa from outside of Australia before being allowed into the country. Some travelers—from a list of countries including the U.S., the U.K., much of the EU, United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Japan, and parts of South America—do not require a transit visa to travel through Australia. The visa can take between four and 15 days to process   .

Visa Overstays

According to the Australian Government, visa overstayers may be faced with detainment or removal from Australia, and may also be billed for the cost of said removal   . If you are discovered to have not held a valid visa upon leaving Australia, the government can also refuse to grant you a visa for up to three years.

Extending Your Visa

ETAs, eVisitor visas, and standard visitor visas are not able to be extended, but in most cases, you can re-apply for the same visa (for another fee). In the case of working holiday visas, a second and third visa (each valid for one year) may be granted to those who meet the requirements of farm work within the country   .

If you find that your visa has expired or is about to expire, you can also apply for a Bridging visa E (BVE) —an extension alternative. The BVE is free and allows you to stay lawfully and temporarily in Australia while you arrange for travel out of the country or wait for another visa to process   .

Australian Government . "Immigration and citizenship: Health."

Australian Government . "Immigration and citizenship: Electronic Travel Authority."

Australian Government . "Immigration and citizenship: eVisitor."

Australian Government . "Visitor Visa."

Australian Government . "Student Visa."

Australian Government . "Working holiday visa."

Australian Government . "Temporary work visas."

Australian Government . "Permanent work visas."

Australian Government . "Partner visa."

Australian Government . "Parent visa."

Australian Government . "Transit Visa."

Australian Government . "If you don't have a valid visa."

Australian Government . "Bridging visa E."

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Visa requirements for visiting Australia

Dec 1, 2023 • 5 min read

Don't let a forgotten tourist visa ruin your Australian getaway © xavierarnau/Getty Images

Planning a trip to Australia ? Whether you’re heading Down Under for a short break or extended working holiday, you’ll likely need a visa.

Here’s your complete guide to filling out your paperwork for a visit to Australia.

Do I need a visa for Australia?

Most visitors to Australia will need a visa, but the type of visa you apply for depends on your country of origin, how long you plan to stay in Australia and what you plan to do while you’re there.

Most tourists must apply for either an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or a visitor visa before traveling. The exception is New Zealand passport holders, who are issued a Special Category visa upon arrival.

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay. You’ll also need to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your stay. Depending on your visa category, you may be asked for proof of this upon arrival.

What type of visa do I need to travel to Australia?

The Australian Department of Home Affairs’ (DoHA) visa finder can help you determine what visas you’re eligible for based on your citizenship, your travel purpose and your intended length of stay.

Here are the three main tourist visa categories:

For visitors from visa-exempt countries: ETA (subclass 601)

If you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country – including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada or Singapore – you’re eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) . With an ETA you can visit Australia as many times as you like for tourism purposes within a one-year window, staying for up to three months per visit.

Attached digitally to your passport number, an ETA allows for a simplified entry process into Australia. An application needs to be completed via the dedicated ETA app before you arrive and usually is processed within a day. However, it’s recommended that you apply for it a few days in advance to ensure you have the ETA in time for your departure.

While ETAs are free, there is an application service charge of $20.

If you’re already in Australia and you want to extend your stay, you will need to apply for a Visitor visa.

For visitors from European countries: eVisitor visa (subclass 651)

The eVisitor visa is free and available for passport holders from most European countries. It offers similar conditions to an ETA: Visitors can stay for up to three months for tourism purposes. It’s valid for 12 months, with multiple entries permitted.

You can apply for the eVisitor online. Processing time is usually within a day, but it’s recommended that you apply well in advance of your intended travel date in case of delays. This visa can’t be extended, so if you wish to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a Visitor visa.

If you hold a passport from a country that’s eligible for both an ETA and an eVisitor visa, you’ll find the two options are nearly identical. The main difference is how you apply for them: ETAs must be applied for through an app with a fee of $20. There is no charge for eVisitor visas, but you’ll need to register for an ImmiAccount and apply online through a web browser.

For all other tourists: Visitor visa (subclass 600)

If you’re not eligible for an ETA or an eVisa and plan to visit Australia for tourism-related purposes, you’ll need to apply for a Visitor visa from outside Australia. This visa may be granted for up to 12 months and may be single or multiple entry. Conditions are determined on a case-by-case basis. A visitor visa starts at $190, but there may be other associated costs including health examinations, police clearances or biometrics, depending on your passport.

Although most visitor visas are processed within a few weeks, it can take longer in peak periods, so it must be applied for well in advance of your trip. Standard processing times change regularly and can be monitored on the DoHA site.

Once you apply, you can track your application through your ImmiAccount. You may be required to submit additional information, so check your application regularly to provide any further details to keep the process moving.

How do I extend my visa to Australia?

Enjoying your stay in Australia and don't want to leave? We don’t blame you.

Depending on your visa, you may be able to apply for a new visa to stay in the country longer. Visitors who are already inside Australia and wish to stay longer as tourists may use the onshore Visitor visa (also subclass 600) to extend their stay.

Make sure you apply for your new visa before your current visa expires. If you’ve submitted your application before your current visa expires, you’ll be granted a free bridging visa until your new one is processed.

What if I want to work and travel around Australia?

Working holidays are a popular option for travelers who want to fund their adventures and immerse themselves in Australian life and culture.

Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program is available for visitors between the ages of 18 and 30 (and up to 35 in some cases) from 40 participating countries and jurisdictions around the world.

There are two classes of visas available under this program: t he Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) and the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) . Which one you apply for depends on the passport you hold. Both are valid for 12 months and cost $635, and both enable you to legally work while in Australia.

Many working holiday visa makers find that one year isn’t enough. Fortunately, you may be able to extend your working holiday visa for a second or even a third year. In order to do so, you’ll need to complete “specified work” in a “regional area” for a period of three months (for a second year) or six months (for a third year) first.

This specified work is usually referred to as “farm work” in backpacker circles, but it’s a bit of a misnomer. It’s a common misconception that you need to head to the woop-woops (that Aussie for “middle of nowhere”) and pick fruit to complete your specified work. In fact, there are a range of approved industries the program , including tourism and hospitality, construction and bushfire recovery. Likewise, “regional areas” aren’t just found in remote rural areas; some major cities (including Darwin and Adelaide) are eligible post codes. So while you might find yourself harvesting bananas in a tiny town in tropical Queensland, you could just as easily find yourself serving tables at a luxury lodge in Darwin or working in a winery in the Barossa.

For more information on the working holiday visa program, you can also visit Tourism Australia’s dedicated portal.

This article was first published Mar 15, 2021 and updated Dec 1, 2023.

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Entering or leaving Australia

Australia welcomes millions of overseas visitors each year. Anyone who is not an Australian citizen needs a valid visa to enter the country.

International passenger caps have been removed for all international passenger arrivals into Australia.

All travellers should be aware that: People entering Australia do not need to provide evidence of vaccination status People entering Australia do not need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration People leaving Australia will not be asked to provide evidence of their vaccination status Unvaccinated visa holders do not ​ need a travel exemption to travel to Australia Mask wearing on international flights to Australia is no longer mandatory . It is important to remember that airlines, vessel operators and other countries may have specific requirements that travellers need to comply with.

Australian Citizens

All Australian citizens must enter and exit Australia on an Australian passport. Your Australian passport must be valid (not expired) on the day of your arrival in Australia. It does not need to have six months remaining validity to enter Australia unless you are passing through a third country that requires it. Citizens are not entitled to a visa, even if you are also a citizen of another country. Please see the  Department of Home Affairs website  for more information. 

Immigration and Visas

All foreign travellers, except New Zealand citizens, must obtain a visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia.

»    Immigration and visas

If you have a specific question, please contact the Department of Home Affairs .

You will also need to know what you can and cannot bring into Australia, knowing the duty-free concession limits and what to experience when travelling through Australian airports and seaports.

Please visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

Plan your trip with  australia.com , the official Tourism Australia website, offering a wide range of travel information and planning tools including over 2000 images, a currency converter, daily weather updates, interactive maps, suggested holiday itineraries, holiday deals, specialist travel agents and more. Available in nine languages.

Tourist Refund Scheme

The  Tourist Refund Scheme  enables you to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you buy in Australia.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

18 VISA-FREE Countries You Can Visit with Australian Visa or PR [2024 Edition]

Updated: March 22, 2024 2 Comments

Australian visa is one of the most powerful visas to have. An Australian visa not only allows VISA-FREE travel to Australia but also to a handful of countries without requiring any additional visas. As of 2024, there are 17 countries you can visit with Australian visa or PR. 

That said, using an Australian visa can be challenging. All Australian visas are electronic visas these days. Immigration officers at the airports may not know how to verify the authenticity of an Australian e-Visa. 

In this guide, I will go over these 17 countries, eligible nationalities, length of stay and the entry rules to keep in mind. 

If you are here but don’t hold an Australian Visa, read the full guide on various types of  Australian visas for tourists , requirements, eligibility and application process.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER Visa requirements change constantly but we make every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. We provide links to official sources wherever necessary, so you can conduct your own due diligence to verify the visa requirements before planning your trip. We shall not be held liable for any damages incurred as a result of using the information in this article. Refer to our full disclaimer for more information.

VISA-FREE countries you can visit with Australian visa or PR in 2024

The VISA-FREE countries you can visit with Australian visa or PR in 2024 are:

• 01. Malaysia

02. Philippines

03. singapore, 04. south korea, 06. thailand.

• 07. Australia

08. Armenia

09. georgia, 10. montenegro, 11. united kingdom, 16. morocco.

This list changes quite often. Please bookmark this page and refer to it for an updated list. 

Eligible Australian visas

Depending on the VISA-FREE country, any of the below Australian visas can be used.

• Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601)
• eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)
• Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
• Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
• Student Visa (Subclass 500 and 407)
• Family Visa (Subclass 101, 103, 801/820, etc.)
• Work Visa (Subclass 408, 482, etc.)
• Permanent Resident Visa (Family-based or work-based, etc)

Refer to each country below for permitted Australian visas. Some countries require the Australian visa to be multiple-entry and have been used at least once to travel to Australia.

Are Australia e-Visas accepted?

Australia issues only e-visas these days. However, the acceptance of the e-Visa depends on the immigration officer’s and airline staff’s familiarity with the VEVO system. 

The Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system is used to verify the authenticity of Australian e-Visas. If they can use the VEVO system to verify your visa, you will have no problems gaining VISA-FREE entry. 

01. Malaysia (Currently suspended)

• Permitted Australian visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry (or used single-entry) Australia visas
• Permitted Australian PRs: All valid Australian Permanent Resident visas
• Entry granted: 120 hours (5 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Transit Without Visa (TWOA) at the VOA counter
• TWOA is free of charge, valid for 120 hours (5 days), single-entry only
• TWOA is available at Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA1 and KLIA2 terminals) only
• TWOA is available only if flying with Malaysian Airlines, AirAsia or Malindo Air
• Must be in transit to reach Australia as the destination. Must hold a confirmed onward eTicket or original boarding pass to Australia within 120 hours. (Exception for longer-term pass holders such as work visa, student visa, etc. who can depart to any third country)
• Issuing of TWOA is at the discretion of the immigration offices at Kuala Lumpur Airport
• Official source: High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi, India
• Eligible Nationalities: India passport holders only
• Permitted Australian visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Australian visas
• Entry granted: 14 days
• Australian visa or PR must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
• Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India
• Permitted Australian visas: All valid used/unused single/multiple-entry Australian visas, except transit (subclass 771)
• Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
• Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
• Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
• Australian visa must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of arrival
• Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority
• Eligible Nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
• Permitted Australian visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Australian visas, except transit (subclass 771)
• Entry granted: 30 days
• Must be traveling to/from Australia through South Korea
• Australian e-visa prints are accepted (must be verifiable in VEVO)
• Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA
• Permitted Australia visas : All valid/expired used/unused multiple or single-entry Australia visas, except transit (subclass 771)
• Permitted Australian PRs: All valid/expired Australian Permanent Resident visas
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate online
• ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
• If using an EXPIRED Australian visa or PR, it must have expired in the last 10 years only
• Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs of Republic of China (Taiwan)
• Eligible Nationalities: All nationalities
• Permitted Australia visas : All valid Australia RESIDENT visas such as student, work, etc. (Australia tourist visas are not accepted)
• Entry granted: 60 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Thailand e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 40 USD, valid for 90 days or 180 days, single or multiple-entry
• Must submit proof of residence in Australia such as driver’s license, utility bill, etc.
• Official source : Thai E-Visa Portal

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US visa in 2024

07. Australia (of course!)

• Includes Australian territories: Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Norfolk Island

• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Entry granted: 120 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
• Australian visa or PR must be a STICKER in the passport (e-Visa prints are not accepted, unfortunately)
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia
• Entry granted: 90 days
• Australian visa must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia
• Permitted Australia visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Australia visas
• Entry rule: Australian visa must be valid for the intended period of the stay
• Official source: Government of Montenegro
• Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN) airports
• Must be traveling to or from Australia
• Must arrive and depart by air
• Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Official source: GOV.UK

RELATED: 38 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Canada visa in 2024

Middle East

• Afghanistan
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea Bissau
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan
• Permitted Australian visas: None
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for Jordan E-Visa
• Australia PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Jordan E-Visa
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• El Salvador
• Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
• 26M eVIsa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• 26N eVIsa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for A3 Visa online on the Hayya portal
• A3 Visa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
• Australian visa or PR must be valid on the day of the A3 Visa application
• Official source: Qatar Tourism Board

RELATED: 43 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2024

• Permitted Australian visas: All valid USED multiple-entry Australian visas
• Permitted Australian PRs: All valid USED Australian Permanent Resident visas
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at all international airports
• VOA fee is 25 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Australian visa or PR must have been used to enter Australia at least once
• Official source: Egypt Tourism Department
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa
• E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• Australian visa or PR must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2024

Central America

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Australian visa or PR must have been used at least once to enter Australia before
• Australian visa or PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
• Official source: Embassy of Panama in the USA

South America

• Entry granted: 180 days
• Entry rule: Australian visa or PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

RELATED: 13 VISA-FREE Countries You Can Visit with New Zealand Visa or PR in 2024

Australian visa is quickly becoming one of the powerful visas to collect. As of 2024, there are 18 VISA-FREE countries you can visit with Australian visa or PR. The only challenge is that all Australian visas are e-Visas. Immigration officers and airline check-in staff may not be familiar with the VEVO system to verify the authenticity of the visa. 

Apart from the above 18, do you know any country that accepts an Australian visa or PR? Let me know in the comments below.

Change history:  For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

RELATED POSTS

Krishnamoorty Yogeaswaram says

May 24, 2024 at 3:46 am

Hi, I am holding Canadian and Australian tourist visa until 2026, Sri Lankan national passport holder. Which are countries I can travel visa free? I am planning to travel Vietnam. It’s possible with this visas?

Thirumal Motati says

May 27, 2024 at 5:15 am

Hi Krishnamoorty! Vietnam does not accept/honor Canada or Australian visas. But Sri Lankans are eligible to apply for Vietnam eVisa. Applying for Vietnam eVisa is super easy, here is a step-by-step guide to help apply.

Regarding countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Australia visa, you can go through the list in this article. For Canada visa, I recommend reading the article on VISA-FREE countries for Canada visa .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

READ BEFORE LEAVING A COMMENT: (1) Use the Search Form to see if your questions have already been answered in an existing article. (2) Ask your questions on Visa Traveler Facebook Group for quick response from us and other experienced visa travelers. (3) We cannot respond to questions on student visas, work visas or immigration. Our advice is purely for travelers needing tourist visas. (4) Due to overwhelming amount of questions, comments and messages we receive, please allow us 24-48 hours to respond to your query.

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A visa is a form of permission for a non-citizen to enter, transit or remain in a particular country or territory.

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Get all the appropriate visas you need before your travel, including transit visas where needed. Many visa types require you to be in Australia to apply. Make sure you provide all the information required when applying for visas and understand the visa conditions.

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The validity and type of visa issued must be strictly adhered to. Overstaying your visa or breaching the conditions may result in a fine or legal action, and future problems with authorities.

Remember that if there is a problem with your visa, deportation is at your expense.

Read more about visas on Smartraveller.

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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

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British citizens can usually get the following types of electronic visitor visa:

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The Department of Home Affairs has information on all other types of visas .

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How and When to Get a Visa to Visit Australia

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

US citizens can travel to many countries visa-free, but Australia isn't one of them. If you're thinking about traveling to Australia, you'll need to plan ahead and obtain valid travel documentation. Here's what you need to know before traveling to Australia as a US citizen with a US passport.

What Visa Do I Need?

The Australian government makes it easy to determine the visa you need with its Visa Finder website . This website asks three questions, the first of which is about the purpose of your trip (think: vacation, visiting relations, attending an event, doing business and seeking medical treatment, among others):

The next question asks the country of your passport:

And the final question asks how long you'd like to stay in Australia — either less than or more than three months.

Most travelers from the US will likely be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) — also called an ETA — as I was for my most recent month-long trip.

This is because an ETA is available to US citizens visiting Australia for three months for reasons that fit into the following categories:

• Holiday or vacation
• Visit to see friends or family
• Select business activities such as general business or employment inquiries; investigate, negotiate, sign or review a business contract; or attend a conference, trade fair or seminar

Since most US citizens traveling to Australia will be traveling for one of these reasons (and, as a result, are eligible to apply for an ETA) I'll focus on ETAs available to US citizens with a US passport.

What Are the Requirements?

To apply for an ETA, you must:

• Have a valid passport from an eligible country (including the US).
• Apply while outside Australia.
• Wish to stay no longer than three months at a time (you must not study for more than three months, for example).
• Be free from tuberculosis.
• Not have any criminal convictions for which you have been sentenced for a total combined period of 12 months or more, whether or not you served the sentence(s).
• Have paid back any debt — of either yourself or your family — or arranged to pay back any debt to the Australian government.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply Online?

The ETA is free, but there is an online application service charge of 20 Australian dollars (about $14) per applicant. As US passport holders -- along with seven other nationalities -- must apply online, there's no escaping the online application service charge. The fees for my recent ETA applications coded as "Bills and Utilities" on my Chase Sapphire Reserve statement, so don't expect the fee to code as "Travel."

How Long Does It Take?

The Australian government says "processing time for this visa is not available" and that the visa may take longer to process if:

• You don't fill it out correctly
• It takes the Australian government additional time to verify your information

Most ETA applications are approved immediately, and those that need additional processing are usually handled within 24 hours. This being said, the Australian government recommends travelers get an approved ETA before booking any nonrefundable travel. Once an ETA is granted, it is valid for one year and allows multiple entries up to three months each.

How Do I Apply?

The online ETA application takes about five minutes to complete. To start an application, click "Apply for an ETA."

Step 1 : Select whether you need a Tourist ETA or a Business Visitor ETA, and certify that you are currently located outside Australia.

Step 2 : Enter your personal details, whether you have an alias, answer a question about your criminal record and enter your passport information.

Step 3 : Enter your address, phone number and email. Select whether you wish to receive communications by SMS and declare whether you hold any passports issued by other countries.

Step 4 : Confirm your information.

Step 5 : Pay the online service charge of 20 Australian dollars (about $14) using a credit card.

How Do I Check My Status?

Once you have submitted an online ETA application, you'll receive a response. The response may:

• Notify you that your ETA has been granted.
• Advise you that your application has been referred for further assessment. You can then check the status of your application after 12 hours by logging back into the ETA system and selecting the option "Check an ETA."
• Advise you to contact the nearest Australian visa office to make a new application.

My response came immediately in an email titled, "ETA Application for Australia [CLIENT-IN-CONFIDENCE] (PROD)" that confirmed my application had "been successful," my payment had been received, that I was now the proud holder of a "valid ETA for Australia" and that my ETA had been linked to my passport, so no additional documents would be required during the travel process.

What Do I Need to Print Before Travel?

Nothing. When your ETA is linked to your passport, it becomes available to both airline representatives as well as Australian immigration authorities. So, there's no need to print your confirmation once your ETA has been granted.

Other Questions

If you have other questions about ETAs, or other types of Australian visas, take a look at the Australian government's Visa Finder website . Questions such as how to combine multiple visa types if the purpose of your trip changes and what to do if you get a new passport are covered on the website.

Traveling to Australia soon? Here are some TPG articles that might be helpful:

• The Best Ways to Use Points and Miles to Fly from the US to Australia
• TPG Readers Reveal Their Favorite Points Hotels in Australia
• TPG Readers' Best Tips for Flying Around Australia
• 8 Australian Islands You Probably Haven't Heard of But Need to Visit

2024 U.S. Election September 23, 2024

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Travel Advisory September 8, 2023

Australia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with removal of major event information.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

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U.s. consulate general sydney.

Suite 2, 50 Miller Street North Sydney, NSW 2060 Australia Telephone:  +(61) (2) 2 8219-2100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 4422-2201 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Canberra (The Embassy does not provide consular services.) Moonah Place Yarralumla, ACT 2600 Australia Telephone: +(61) (2) 6214-5600 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 411-424-608 Fax: +(61) (2) 6214-5970

U.S. Consulate General Melbourne 553 St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia Telephone: +(61) (3) 9526-5900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (3) 9389-3601 Fax: +(61) (3) 9526-5968 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Perth 4th Floor 16 St. George's Terrace Perth, WA 6000 Australia Telephone: +(61) (8) 6144-5100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (8) 9476-0081 Fax: +(61) (8) 9325-5914 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.   

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA. The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers.

If you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

If you are travelling on a valid U.S. ePassport (a passport that contains an electronic chip) and are 16 years of age or older, you are eligible to use Australia’s automated border processing system, SmartGate, upon arrival in Australia (SmartGate kiosks are available only at participating airports). There is no additional enrollment process or fee to use SmartGate. Visit the SmartGate website for more information and for a list of participating airports in Australia.

Visit the Embassy of Australia website for the most current visa information.  

HIV/AIDS restrictions. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreigners seeking permanent residence in Australia. Depending on the type of visa you apply for, the length of your stay, and your intended activities in Australia, you may be required to undergo a medical examination before the Australian Department of Home Affairs will issue you a visa.

If you are in the application process, and are found to be HIV positive, a decision on the application will be considered on the same grounds as any other pre-existing medical condition (such as tuberculosis or cancer), with the focus on the cost to Australia’s health care and community services.

Additional information about Australian immigration health requirements can be found here.

Please verify this information with the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. before you travel. 

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorists have targeted, and could continue to target, Australia.

• Australia has an alert system for possible terrorist attacks. The threat levels range from “not expected” to “certain.” The Australian National Security website has up-to-date information regarding the current terrorism threat level. You may also contact the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.
• U.S. citizens in Australia should remain vigilant toward their personal security and exercise caution.
• Australian law protects the right of individuals and groups to engage in peaceful protest and to publicly express their views. Demonstrations and political rallies are generally approved by local authorities and well publicized. However, please be cautious of any possible confrontation that could escalate into violence. You should attempt to avoid the areas of demonstrations and be careful within the vicinity of any demonstrations. You should stay current with media coverage of local events and always be aware of your surroundings.
• You should be aware that robberies, burglaries, assault, and auto theft are common in Australia’s larger cities.
• Foreign visitors in popular tourist areas are targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers, and petty thieves. Most petty crime can be avoided if basic security precautions are taken.
• Be careful when visiting bars or clubs in the entertainment areas of major cities, as “bar brawls” and other assaults sometimes occur. You should watch out for drink spiking when consuming alcohol with unfamiliar people.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 000 and contact the U.S. Consulate in your district.
• The local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information about Australian Victim Assistance programs.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. consulate in your district for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned or deported.

• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, such as inside certain areas of Australian airports, near prisons, and at military bases.
• Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Alcohol and Drugs:

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy sentences and fines. Please see Australia’s Department of Health webpage for further information. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in jail time.
• Random breath testing of a driver's blood alcohol level is a common occurrence.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Potential Health Screening: Australian authorities have broad powers to prevent the entry of diseases and other materials into Australia that might pose a threat to its welfare. In the event of a public health emergency involving a communicable disease, passengers arriving in Australia may be subject to strict health screening measures, including testing, monitoring, and assessment for possible quarantine.

Customs: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural goods, including plants and food products, and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals and pets. Can you bring it in?

Contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington, D.C., or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, and visit the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture website for additional information.

Natural Disasters:

Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. These events are difficult to predict and can result in loss of life. You should be aware of conditions around you and monitor local weather and safety reports so you can take appropriate action when needed.

See our webpage for information on storm preparedness and response.

Safety Concerns:

Outdoor Recreation/Adventure

• Be aware that Australian fauna can be dangerous. From jellyfish to crocodiles, sharks, poisonous insects, and snakes, the continent and its waters host wildlife that merit awe and respect in equal doses.
• Visit the Wet Tropics Management Authority visitor information guide for information on Australian wildlife and marine life.
• Take important safety precautions when swimming, such as swimming only between the flags where a lifeguard is present, and never swimming alone.
• Further information on beach safety can be found on the Surf Life Saving website.

Follow recommended precautions when snorkeling and scuba diving and never dive alone. Over the past few years, there have been numerous deaths related to snorkeling and scuba diving incidents.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Australia. Australian federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

As of December 9, 2017 Australia defines marriage as “the union between two people.” Australia grants temporary and permanent visas to same-sex partners of Australian citizens.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance

• Australia enforces laws prohibiting discrimination against access to premises, facilities, and accommodation.
• Many of the downtown areas of Australian cities were built in the 1800s. These areas often have narrow sidewalks crowded with pedestrians and tourists.
• Most public transit, parking, streets, and buildings are accessible for disabled travelers.
• Tourist spots at the beach or in the Australian outback can have varying degrees of accessibility.
• Many accommodations and venues provide accessibility information on their websites.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Australia, dial 000.

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

• Excellent medical care is available in Australia.
• Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Prescriptions:

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Australia  to ensure the medication is  legal in   Australia .
• Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of hospitals and a link to the Australian National Health Services Directory at Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia (usembassy.gov) . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Australia.

Pharmaceuticals:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.  

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem during certain months in Australia due to bush fires. Consider the impact seasonal bush fire season pollution may have on your health and consult your doctor before traveling.

The air quality varies considerably and changes with the season. It is typically at its worst in the bush fire season. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Traffic operates on the left side of the road, and all vehicles use right-hand drive.
• Use caution when crossing streets and when driving.
• When crossing roads on foot, make sure you look carefully in all directions.
• Seat belt use by drivers and all passengers is mandatory, and fines apply for not wearing them.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• Speed limits and laws are rigorously enforced. Speed limits vary throughout Australia and are measured in kilometers, not miles. Be aware that speed cameras are everywhere and you will be ticketed for driving over the speed limit.
• Roads and streets are frequently narrower and less graded than U.S. highways.
• Outside major metropolitan areas, most highways are two-lane roads with significant distances between destinations.
• When driving in Australia, exercise caution while passing or merging with adjacent traffic.
• If driving in rural areas, be alert to free-roaming animals, such as kangaroos, and "road-trains" (several semi-truck trailers connected together).
• Passing road-trains is dangerous, and you should pull over to allow on-coming road-trains to pass to avoid being sideswiped.
• If you have no experience with a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you should exercise common-sense when driving in the Australian outback.

Traffic Laws:

• Each state/territory has different rules about using a foreign driver’s license and the conditions under which a visitor might have to get an international driver’s license. More information about  driving rules and regulations is available by state .
• Texting or holding your phone while driving is against the law in Australia, but you can use a hands-free system to communicate while driving.
• For specific information concerning Australian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, mandatory insurance, and the rental and operation of motor vehicles in Australia, visit the  Australian Tourist Commission website.

Public Transportation:  Australia has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, ferries, trains, and subways. Metered taxis and ride sharing services are also prevalent. Use common sense safety practices, such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings, on all public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Australia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Australia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Australia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  portal select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Australia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Australia's Working Holiday Visa Could Give You Year-Long Residency

If you’ve long wished to explore the Outback , but don't want to give up your job, there's a way to live out your day dream— Australia 's Working Holiday visa programs are a great option for people between 18 and 30 years old (35 in a few cases) to live and work in Australia for the short-term.

This may all sound too good to be true, but soon enough, you could be surfing the famous waves at Bells Beach, enjoying laidback seaside life in Byron Bay , or urban-adventuring in Melbourne . However you choose to divvy up your year between work, study, and travel, you’ll want to know which program is right for you.

Australia's Working Holiday Maker visa was first launched in January 1975 and was originally limited to applicants from only three countries: Canada , Ireland , and the United Kingdom . That year some 2,000 people were granted visas to spend a year working and traveling in Australia. Over the years the program has grown substantially, and it is now available to qualifying citizens of 45 countries.

Who is eligible?

There are two different related visas. The Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa (also referred to as subclass 417 visas) are granted to passport holders from 19 countries or regions. Work and Holiday visas (subclass 462 visas) are granted to passport holders from 26 other countries and regions. The primary difference is that Work and Holiday visas have annual caps and there are some additional eligibility requirements.

As Australia’s Department of Home Affairs explains, the Working Holiday Maker visas allow visitors to work in the country to fund an extended vacation. Holders of these visas can also study or train for up to four months, travel to and from Australia as many times as they want during the course of the year, and perform work for up to three months that would qualify them for a second Working Holiday or Work and Holiday visa. That’s right: even after your initial 12 months are over, you may be able to extend your stay down under.

If you have a passport from the following countries, you may be eligible to apply for a Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462):

• Czech Republic
• Papau New Guinea
• Slovak Republic
• Switzerland
• United States

From 2021 to 2022, the United States had the most Work and Holiday visas granted to applicants. Of the 11,598 first-time Work and Holiday visas that were issued, 2,907 went to US passport holders.

The other class of Working Holiday Maker visas are the Working Holiday visas (subclass 417) are available to young people who hold passports from these 19 countries:

• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

In 2021 and 2022, the United Kingdom received the most Working Holiday visas: 15,592 of the 67,575 that were issued. And while most people granted Working Holiday visas must be 30 of age or younger, applicants from Canada, Denmark , France , Ireland, Italy , and the United Kingdom have extended eligibility until they turn 35.

How do I apply?

The process to apply for both classes of visas is straightforward, beginning with creating an account on Australia’s ImmiAccount website and then following all the steps outlined for that visa. Among the documents you will have to scan or photograph and then submit are a valid passport and a birth certificate. In the absence of a birth certificate, you can provide both your parents’ names, a government-issued identification, or a court-issued document that verifies your identity. In addition, all documents must be in English or, for those that are not, accompanied by a translation that includes details of the translator’s qualifications and experience if they are located outside Australia. Translators in Australia must be accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters.

There are also financial requirements. Typically you’ll have to have the equivalent of 5,000 Australian dollars (roughly $3,375 USD) plus either an onward ticket to your next destination or the resources to purchase one. You’ll have to complete a health examination that indicates you don’t have any condition that will pose a public threat or strain healthcare systems. And you’ll have to meet a character requirement. The last requirement is typically an issue only for people applying with criminal records, but even for those applicants, the full totality of circumstances around any situation will be considered when deciding whether to grant a visa.

With both subclasses of visas you can arrive in Australia at any time within the 12-month period following the date it is granted. The requirements around the visas are always subject to change, of course, and, for example, the age may be extended upwards to 35 for other countries while there are a number of other countries that are negotiating with Australia to participate in its Working Holiday Maker programs.

Once you have submitted your application, be patient. The majority of applications are processed in 14 days but some require follow up if the application wasn’t completed correctly or if there are any issues with documents that have been uploaded. Once a visa has been issued, you have 12 months to travel to Australia to begin to use it.

How much does it cost?

How much should you have saved up to start the application process? Both the 417 and 462 visas have an application fee of 650 Australian dollars (roughly $440 USD). Applicants must also show that they are financially solvent and have enough money to live on during the stay, as well as the resources to return home or travel to a next destination. As stated above, immigration authorities say this figure is usually about 5,000 Australian dollars ($3,375 USD).

Can visits be extended after 12 months?

You can apply for up to two extensions of your visa, in both subclasses. However, you will have to meet some additional requirements by, for example, proving that you have spent at least three months working in specific areas of the economy. These include (among many other areas) tourism in remote and northern Australian regions, bushfire recovery work, and construction.

If you are ready to investigate further and see if your Australian dream can become a reality, the link here provides a comprehensive guide to the process, for both subclasses of visas. There’s even a kangaroo chat feature named Ruby to help along the way.

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveler Spain .

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Travelling to Australia from the UK: 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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Australia to offer 1,000 work and holiday visas to indians starting oct 1.

Australia will offer up to 1,000 Work and Holiday visas annually to Indian citizens starting October 1, as part of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. Indian nationals aged 18 to 30 can apply for a one-year visa to work, study, and travel across Australia, enhancing bilateral ties.

Australia to launch new visa ballot for Work and Holiday applicants from India

Australia tightens temporary work visa rules; key changes explained

Australia announces changes to its Temporary Graduate Visa programs

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