Australia eVisitor Visa or ETA for UK Citizens
UK citizens visiting Australia for their vacation or business trip should check out the visa options. To plan a smooth trip, selecting the right visa should be your priority.
In terms of visa options, UK citizens have two visa options for their short visits. You can choose the Australia eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) or the ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) (Subclass 601). Both entry permits allow you to stay for three months. However, the processing time and application process differed for each type.
Based on your travel requirements, you have to choose a travel permit that fits your trip needs. The following information about both visas will help you select the right visa.
What is the Difference Between the eVisitor Visa and the ETA for UK Citizens?
You should know the criteria and requirements of the Australia ETA and eVisitor Visa. Both visas allow short-term stays for three months (90 days) and permit you to take multiple visits within their one-year (12 months) validity period.
The Australia eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) is an exclusive visa that is available for the nationals of selected countries only. The visa is cost-free and can be easily obtained online. The eVisitor Visa is perfect for those seeking a cost-free option for their Australia trip. But you have to get the eVisitor Visa before you travel.
The ETA (Subclass 601) has a different set of selected countries. Only citizens or passport holders from the eligible countries can apply for ETA. You have to pay a processing fee to get an Australia ETA. UK passport holders who are eligible to apply for an ETA online must have an approved ETA before their departure.
| Visa Type | Australia ETA | Australia eVisitor Visa |
| Validity | 12 months | 12 months |
| Stay Duration | 90 days per entry | 90 days per entry |
| Entry | Multiple entry | Multiple entry |
| Processing Time | Immediately (or within 48 hours) | Less than 1 day (or within 1-2 days) |
What Travel Purposes Can UK Citizens Use the Australia eVisitor Visa or ETA for?
The travel purpose for the Australia ETA and eVisitor Visa is the same, and there is no difference between them. You can also use both the visas for.
- Vacation, sightseeing or leisure activities.
- Joining training or academic courses (up to 3 months only).
- Meet your family and friends (who live in Australia).
- Undertake your business activities.
Process Time of ETA and eVisitor Visa for UK Citizens
Both the eVisitor Visa and ETA entry permits offer a quick processing time for UK citizens. The processing time of the eVisitor Visa application is one day (within 24 hours). However, unforeseen delays can extend the processing time by 1-2 days.
The ETA offers a fast-processing time. If you are applying for ETA, then your application will be processed immediately. In some cases, delay might occur and the processing can take up to 48 hours.
Requirements for ETA and eVisitor Visa
To apply for the Australia ETA and eVisitor Visa, all eligible travelers must meet its requirements. It includes having the right documents and fulfilling the health and character requirements. Therefore, you should visit Australia as a genuine visitor with a clear intention to stay temporarily and leave the country within your stay period.
You should also look into the requirements for each visa separately. At the time of application submission and receiving approval, you should be outside Australia.
Application Process for Australia ETA or eVisitor Visa from the UK?
UK travelers should not overlook the visa application process. Both the visa offers an online process, so you do not have to wait in lines at the consulate or embassy.
- Firstly, access Australia e-Visa portal to complete your online visa application form.
- Check the online form and provide your accurate details only (it should match with your documents).
- Upload your travel documents (your bank statement, passport, etc.).
- Finally, Submit your visa form and pay the applicable fee.
Even though the processing time is quick, avoid submitting your Australian visa application close to your intended departure date. You should apply a week in advance to tackle unexpected delays.
Can I Work with a Subclass 651 or 601 visa in Australia?
You cannot work in Australia with an Australia ETA and eVisitor Visa. Therefore, you should get a proper work visa to undertake employment in Australia.
Other prohibited activities under Subclass 601 and 651 are registering for long-duration academic courses, providing services or selling goods and overstaying. Engaging in prohibited activities can lead to deportation and your visa might be cancelled.
Can I extend the Australia ETA or eVisitor Visa while in Australia?
You cannot extend either the ETA or the eVisitor Visa. You must stick to your stay duration (which is three months per entry). It is suitable only for short visits. You must choose other Australian visa types to plan a long-duration visit to Australia.
Why Choose the Australia ETA?
Both visas allow UK citizens to enjoy their short leisure or business visits to Australia. The Australia eVisitor Visa might be the perfect entry permit for UK citizens because of the advantages listed below.
- Simple and more convenient application process.
- Faster processing time (immediately or within a few minutes).
- No physical visit is required.
For Further Queries, Contact Us
Our helpdesk is also available 24/7 to hear your queries and assist you in getting your Australian visa. So, you can contact us regarding the visa process or requirements.
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With an Australia eVisitor Visa, you can take multiple visits to Australia within its one-year validity period. You are permitted a 90 days stay for every entry. Learn more at Australia eVisitor Visa.