Australia ETA for US Citizens: Cost, Processing Time, How to Apply
Short answer: US citizens need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) for Australia — it's not a visa, but you can't board without one. It covers tourist and short business visits up to 3 months per visit.
The facts
- Cost: AUD 20, paid in the official Australian ETA app.
- Processing: usually minutes, sometimes up to 24 hours. Apply at least a few days ahead.
- Validity: 12 months, multiple entries, up to 3 months per visit.
- Official channel: the Australian ETA app (search "AustralianETA" in your app store) — this is the only official route, and it keeps you off the copycat sites that charge far more.
Know before you go
- The ETA is linked to your passport number — if you renew your passport, you need a new ETA.
- It does NOT cover work. Working on an ETA can get you removed.
- Apply with the exact passport you'll travel on.
Apply
apply direct in the official Australian ETA app for AUD 20.
Quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fee | AUD 20, paid in the official Australian ETA app |
| Processing | Usually minutes, sometimes up to 24 hours |
| Validity and entries | 12 months, multiple entries, up to 3 months per visit |
| Official portal | The official Australian ETA app |
Before you apply
- Apply with the exact passport you will travel on — the ETA is linked to your passport number.
- Apply at least a few days ahead, even though processing is usually minutes.
- Have a payment method ready for the AUD 20 fee in the app.
- If you renew your passport, remember you will need a new ETA.
Common mistakes
- Using a copycat site that charges far more than the AUD 20 app fee.
- Applying on a different passport than the one you travel on.
- Assuming the ETA covers work — it does not, and working on an ETA can get you removed.
FAQs
- Is the ETA a visa? It is not a visa, but you cannot board without one.
- How long can I stay per visit? Up to 3 months per visit, on tourist and short business visits.
- What if I renew my passport? The ETA is linked to your passport number, so you need a new ETA.
- Can I work on an ETA? No. It does not cover work.
*Visa rules change. Confirm current requirements on the Australian Home Affairs site before applying. Not legal or immigration advice.*