Australia ETA For US Citizens: Cost, App And How To Apply
Americans do not need a traditional visa for a holiday in Australia, but they do need permission before they board. For most US travelers, that means the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), which you apply for on your phone in a few minutes for a small fee.
This guide explains what the Australia ETA is, what it costs, how to apply through the official app, and what it does and does not allow.
Do US Citizens Need A Visa For Australia?
Yes, every visitor needs some form of visa or authorization. US citizens visiting for tourism, family visits or short business trips are eligible for the ETA (subclass 601). It is technically a visa, but it is issued electronically, linked to your passport, and usually granted quickly.
Airlines check for an approved ETA at check-in, so you cannot board a flight to Australia without one.
Australia ETA At A Glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Who it is for | Tourists and business visitors from eligible countries, including the US |
| How to apply | The official AustralianETA app |
| Cost | AUD 20 service charge; no visa application charge |
| Validity | 12 months from the date it is granted |
| Entries | Multiple |
| Stay per visit | Up to 3 months |
| Work allowed? | No |
How Much Does The Australia ETA Cost?
The ETA has no visa application charge, but the Australian government charges an AUD 20 service fee to apply through the app. That is roughly US$13, depending on the exchange rate. The fee is not refunded if your application is refused.
Many third-party websites offer “Australian ETA” applications for far more. You do not need them. The app is the official channel.
How To Apply For The Australia ETA
What you need
- A valid US e-passport (with the chip symbol on the cover)
- A smartphone with NFC and a camera, to read the passport chip and take a live photo
- A credit or debit card for the AUD 20 fee
- Your email address and contact details
Step by step
- Download the AustralianETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Australia’s diplomatic missions describe it as the only channel for ETA applications.
- Scan your passport’s photo page, then hold your phone against the passport to read the chip.
- Take a live facial photo when prompted.
- Answer the health and character questions honestly.
- Pay the AUD 20 service charge.
- Wait for the result by email. Many applications are approved within minutes, but some take longer, so apply well before your trip.
You can also apply on behalf of family members from the same phone.
What The ETA Allows
- Tourism and holidays
- Visiting family and friends
- Business visitor activities such as meetings, conferences and negotiations
- Short study of up to three months
What The ETA Does Not Allow
- Paid work for an Australian employer
- Stays longer than three months per visit
- Long-term study
Young Americans who want to work while traveling should look at the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) instead.
When You Need A Different Visa
If your passport cannot be read by the app, you have certain health or criminal history, or you want to stay longer, you may need to apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through ImmiAccount instead. It costs considerably more and takes longer to process.
Arriving In Australia
At the border you will clear immigration, often through automated SmartGates, and complete Australia’s incoming passenger declaration for customs and biosecurity. Australia is strict about food, plant and animal products, so declare anything you are unsure about.
Border officers may ask about your plans, including when you are leaving. If you are flying in one-way as part of a longer trip around the Pacific or Asia, having your onward booking ready makes that easy. Our guide to proof of onward travel explains what to bring.
Tips To Avoid Problems
- Apply early. Do it as soon as your trip is booked, not the night before.
- Use the official app. Look for “AustralianETA” from the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
- Check your passport chip works. If the app cannot read it, you will need the Visitor visa route.
- Travel on the same passport. The ETA is linked to the passport you used. A new passport means a new ETA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Australia ETA for US citizens?
AUD 20, paid as a service charge in the AustralianETA app.
How long is the ETA valid?
12 months, with stays of up to three months each visit.
Can I apply for the ETA on a website?
The official channel is the AustralianETA app. Treat websites offering the ETA as third parties charging extra.
Is an ETA the same as an eVisitor visa?
No. The eVisitor (subclass 651) is a free option for many European passport holders. US citizens use the ETA.
Can I work in Australia on an ETA?
No. Paid work for an Australian employer needs a different visa.
Before You Fly
Download the app, apply as soon as your dates are set, and keep the approval email handy. Rules can change, so check the Department of Home Affairs website before you travel.