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What documents will I need?

Planning a visit to Britain but not sure what documents you’ll need? Find key information on passport requirements, visas and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) below. Detailed guidance can also be found on the official government website .

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EU, EEA and Swiss nationals

Some entry requirements changed for EU, EEA and Swiss nationals, post Brexit.

Most travellers from the EU, EEA and Switzerland will require a passport to enter Britain and Northern Ireland. Your passport will need to be valid for your entire stay here. 

Some, but not all visitors can use an EU, EEA or Swiss national ID to enter Britain and Northern Ireland until at least 31 December 2025. Check gov.uk website for who is eligible.

Common Travel Areas

For those in the Common Travel Areas (known as Britain and Northern Ireland, the rest of Ireland, and Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man), please see here for the  different document requirements .

The rest of the world

You must have a valid passport to enter Britain and Northern Ireland, and it should be valid for the whole duration of your stay.

Most people coming to visit Britain and Northern Ireland will need a visa. To discover whether you need one or not depends on why you’re visiting and your nationality. 

You’ll have to either:

Apply for a standard Visitor Visa. There is a cost for this, and it must be applied for three months before travel.

Be able to visit Britain and Northern Ireland for six months without needing a visa.

You can check which applies to you .

More information on short-stay visas can be found on the official government website.

Electronic Travel Authorisation

By the end of 2024, Electronic Travel Authorisation will be a requirement worldwide for visitors who do not currently need a visa for short stays. More information on the ETA scheme can be found on the official government website.

Until the introduction of the ETA, most travellers from the EU, EEA and Switzerland won’t require a visa but will still need their passport to enter Britain and Northern Ireland. Your passport will need to be valid for your entire stay.

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If you’re an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you can find the most up-to-date information on visiting Britain and Northern Ireland on the official government website .

American, Canadian and Australian tourists, and citizens of certain Commonwealth countries, can travel visa-free throughout Britain and Northern Ireland, providing you have a valid passport and your reason for visiting meets the immigration rules .

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme started to replace the electronic visa waiver from late 2023:

• From 15 November 2023, nationals of Qatar require an ETA to travel to the UK.
• From 22 February 2024, nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE require an ETA to travel to the UK. The ETA scheme is now open for applications from nationals of these countries.
• More countries will be added to the scheme at a later date.

An ETA will cost £10 per application when the scheme opens, will permit multiple journeys and be valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires - whichever is sooner.

More information on the new ETA scheme can be found via the official government website.

For nationals of all other countries, you can check if you need a UK visa here.

Immigration applications

Please note that www.GOV.UK is the only official UK immigration website and provides all of the information necessary to successfully complete an application.

We have received reports of customers using non-GOV.UK websites to support their UK immigration applications. If you have made use of these websites, please be aware of the following:

• Some non-GOV.UK websites deliberately attempt to deceive customers by making it appear as though they are an official part of the application process.
• These websites can pose a risk to a customer’s security and data.
• They will often charge applicants extra, unnecessary fees in addition to any fees related to the official immigration application.
• The information included on these websites is not moderated by the Home Office and may be inaccurate or misleading.

If you think you may have been a victim of a non-GOV.UK website seeking your data and/or money, please report this to Reporting fraud and cyber crime | Action Fraud .

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Visas to visit Australia

Whether you are visiting Australia for less than 72 hours or planning on a stay of several years you must have a valid Australian visa.

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

Information on visas to Australia can be found at the Department of Home Affairs .

Related links

• Visiting Australia
• Australia.com - official Australian tourism website

UK Visitor visa

Australians visiting the uk can stay in the country for a short period as a tourist, for business reasons or to do a short course..

The UK visitor visa is mostly used if you need to be in the UK for up to six months. It acts as a short term business visa, a tourist visa for UK holidays, an academic visit visa, and much more. It is often also used for private medical treatment.

A Standard Visitor visa is valid for up to six months. Visitors from some countries do not require a visa to visit the UK – make sure to check with a UK visas specialist before you apply.

You should apply for this visa if you wish to travel to the UK for the following reasons:

• Business activities, including attending meetings and conferences
• Visiting family and friends
• Doing a short course of study
• For medical reasons, for example, to receive private medical treatment

To apply, you must show that:

• You intend on leaving the UK at the end of your visit
• You can support yourself and your dependants during your trip
• You can pay for your return or onward
• You have proof of any business or other activities you want to do in the UK that are allowed on the visitor visa

This visa does not allow you to:

• Be self-employed in the UK or work for a UK company (paid or unpaid)
• Conduct frequent visits with aim of living in the UK during those periods
• Receive public funds
• Do a course of study that is longer than six months
• Marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership

Certain circumstances will allow you to stay in the UK longer on a visitor visa.

These include:

• Taking part in academic research and exchange programmes (stay up to 12 months, including dependants )
• Private medical treatment (stay for up to 11 months)

Those who visit the UK frequently may be able to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa (of two, five or 10 years). You may not visit the UK for more than six months at a time on this visa.

How to get a visitor visa if you are under 18

If you are under 18 years of age you can apply for a visitor visa, provided you meet the following requirements:

• You have made suitable arrangements for your travel and stay in the UK
• You’re able to pay for your return or onward journey
• You have enough money to support yourself without working or getting help from public funds, or you have family and friends who can support you

If you are travelling alone

You may also travel to the UK without an adult accompanying you if you are under 18 years.

Your parent or guardian will need to provide the following:

• Written consent for you to travel to the UK
• Their full contact details

Your parent or guardian will also need to provide proof that you have somewhere suitable to live during your stay in the UK, and the following details about the person you’ll be staying with:

• Their name and date of birth
• The address where you will be living
• Details of your relationship to the person who’ll be looking after you
• Your parent’s or guardian’s written consent for you to stay with that person while you’re in the UK

Applying from outside the UK

Your application must be done online. You will need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to have your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) taken.

Extending your visitor visa

You may apply to extend your visitor visa, but only for specific reasons such as requiring further private medical treatment. Switching from a Standard Visitor visa to another type of visa is not allowed.

If you want to stay in the UK for other reasons than visiting, you will need to leave the UK and make a new application for a different visa.

Speak to one of our consultants about your options

Tourist visa to Australia for UK Citizens

Key aspects.

Cheapest and fastest visa for touristic purposes.

Visa Duration

12 months total, up to 90 days each visit .

Approval time

95% of tourist visas are granted within 24 hours .

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

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

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

In-depth information on Australian Tourist Visas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• eVisitor – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 651
• Working Holiday Visa – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 417
• Tourist stream – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 600

Online Tourist Visa for Australia (eVisitor / “e-Tourist”)

An e-tourist visa, which is formally an eVisitor visa, is a subclass 651 visa . You can use this visa to tour Australia, visit family or friends or study or train for short-term. Business visitors can also use this visa for short-term. An eVisitor tourist visa is a temporary visa that is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, and it is a multiple entry visa. For each entry, you can stay up to 3 months.

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

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

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

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

Tourist Stream (Subclass 600)

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

Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417

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

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

• Apply for WHV now

Additional type-independent Australian Tourist Visa Information:

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

Australian Tourist Visa for UK Citizens: How to Apply

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

Getting a Tourist Visa to Australia from the United Kingdom

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

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

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

Australian Tourist Visa Requirements for British Citizens

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

UK Passport Validity and Photo Requirements

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

Documents Required to UK Citizens for an Australian Tourist Visa

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

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

Funds Required for an Australian Tourist Visa

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

Medical Requirements for an Australian Travel Visa

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

Australian Tourist Visa Age Limits for British Citizens

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

Process and Processing Time for Australian Tourist Visas

Visa processing time for an australian evisitor tourist visa (subclass 651).

The eVisitor is the most commonly used Australian Tourist Visa. The process can be completed online and requires no extra application forms, no visa labels and no passport stamps.

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

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

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

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

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) Processing Time

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

Also, the Australia tourist visa process is quite straightforward:

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

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

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

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

Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Australian Working Holiday Visa

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

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

Australian Visiting Academic Visa

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

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

This visa is valid for up to 12 months.

Australia Tourist Visa 771 (Australia Transit Visa)

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

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

Is the Australian tourist visa multiple entry?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are my other options for extending my tourist visa?

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

• Extend your visa

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

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

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

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

The cost for a working holiday tourist visa is of £ 515.00 as of 2024, but additional costs may also arise, including costs for police certificates, biometrics and health checks. Processing time can take from 13 to 22 days but may take longer if more information is needed or for verification purposes. Private health insurance coverage is highly recommended during your stay in the country. Read more about Working Holiday Australian Visas for UK Citizens here .

• Apply for a WHV

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

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

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

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

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

While there are no Australia tourist visa fees associated with the eVisitor, there is an online service charge of £ 59.00 .

The cost of a Working Holiday visa is instead of £ 515.00 .

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

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• Australian visa information
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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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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

United Kingdom

A Comprehensive Guide for UK Passport Holders Applying for an Australian Visitor Visa .

Australia's allure as a travel destination for UK passport holders is undeniable. Whether you're planning a holiday or visiting family or friends, understanding the Australian visitor visa process, including the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and eVisitor visa, is crucial. Here's a comprehensive overview of the options, requirements, and steps involved in obtaining an Australian visitor visa from the UK.

Australian Visitor Visa Options

For UK passport holders, several visa options facilitate entry to Australia, including:

1. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

This visa permits temporary visits for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. To qualify, UK citizens must showcase genuine intent, financial stability, and a commitment to adhere to visa conditions.

2. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)

The ETA is a quick and convenient option for short-term stays in Australia. UK passport holders can apply for an ETA online, offering multiple short visits over 12 months with a maximum stay of three months per entry.

3. eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)

The eVisitor visa is also available to UK passport holders and allows for short visits for tourism, business, or visiting family. It's free and can be applied for online, offering similar benefits to the ETA.

Eligibility Criteria

To obtain the Visitor Visa, ETA, or eVisitor visa, UK citizens must demonstrate a temporary visit intent, financial capacity, no intention to work, and good health. Compliance with Australian immigration laws is imperative.

Documentation Requirements

All three visas require essential documentation such as a valid UK passport, completed application forms, financial proofs, travel itinerary, and evidence of ties to the UK.

Application Process

Visitor Visa: Lodge an online application through the Australian Government's official website, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information provided.

ETA and eVisitor Visa: Apply online through the respective systems, with a straightforward application process and quick approval, often granted within minutes.

Additional Tips

Initiate the visa application process well in advance to allow for sufficient processing time. Comprehensively meeting all stipulated requirements and guidelines can significantly boost the chances of a successful application.

Securing an Australian visitor visa, whether through the Visitor Visa, ETA, or eVisitor visa, demands careful attention to eligibility criteria, documentation, and adherence to the application process. By following the outlined steps, UK passport holders can navigate the process smoothly, making their Australian visit a seamless and memorable experience.

Australian visa for UK citizens

British tourists need to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) to travel to Australia . This e-Visa is called the eVisitor visa (Subclass 651). It is a short-stay Australian visa for business or tourism.

Before applying for the eVisitor visa, it is important to check the Australia visa requirements and eligibility criteria provided on this page.

Do citizens of the UK need a visa for Australia?

Yes, citizens of the UK need a visa to visit Australia, even for short stays.

The UK is one of more than 30 European countries whose citizens can apply for the Australian eVisitor visa .

It is not possible to include family members on the same AustraliaGoVisa application, even if listed on the same passport.

Applicants must also be outside of Australia to apply for the eVisitor Visa and hold an eVisitor eligible passport (Source: Migration Regulations 1994, Item 1218AA (3) (a) of the Migration Act 1958).

Applicants must be outside of Australia at the time of the visa grant (Source: Sch 2 651.411 of the Migration Regulations 1994 of the Migration Act 1958).

What you can do in Australia with the eVisitor visa

British citizens with an eVisitor visa can go to Australia:

• As a tourist—including holidays or to take a cruise
• Visiting family or friends
• On business

If you are travelling on business, make sure you meet your visa conditions . General business inquiries, negotiating a contract, and attending conferences are among the permitted activities.

As per Sch 2 651.212 of the Migration Regulations 1994 of the Migration Act 1958, “the applicant genuinely intends to visit Australia temporarily as a tourist or to engage in a business visitor activity”.

You can find a full definition of “business visitor activity” on AustraliaGoVisa’s eVisitor (subclass 651) information page.

Your eVisitor visa is generally issued for 12 months and you can stay for up to 3 months at a time.

Requirements to apply for an Australia eVisitor visa from the UK

British travellers applying for an eVisitor Visa for Australia must meet the following requirements as per Sch 2 651.211 of the Migration Regulations 1994 of the Migration Act 1958:

Document requirements

• Valid UK passport

Health requirements

• Free from diseases that could be harmful to Australian public health
• Free from diseases that could bring about significant healthcare or community costs

These requirements are outlined in Sch 2 651.212 of the Migration Regulations 1994 of the Migration Act 1958, in Public Interest Criteria 4005 (1).

In certain cases, a traveller might be required to undergo a medical exam to determine whether they fit the health requirements . Individuals suffering from significant health issues may be required to sign an Australian Health Undertaking, to monitor their condition with a doctor in Australia.

Good character requirements

• No criminal record or served a cumulative jailtime of 12 months or more
• Must have a good character in general, which can be proved using official documents

The applicant(s) visa grant must not be contrary to Australia’s foreign policy interests and not assessed by Australian Securities Intelligence Organisation as a security risk, according to Sch 4 Public Interest Criteria and Related Provisions (Part 1 to Part 4) 651.212 of the Migration Regulations 1994 of the Migration Act 1958, in Public Interest Criteria 4005 (1).

Some individuals can also be required to submit documentation verifying their good character , such as a police clearance certificate or a letter from an employer.

How long does it take to get a visa for Australia from the UK?

British passport holders can benefit from fast Australia visa processing.

Standard service : using this service, applicants receive their approved eVisitor visa within 2 days .

Priority service : for urgent requests, British nationals can get their visa in just 1 hour using the priority service.

Travellers are advised to apply for their visas as soon as possible in case of any unexpected delays.

Apply for an eVisitor visa for Australia

The Australia eVisitor visa application process for UK citizens is a simple 3-step process :

• 1. Complete the online application form
• 2. Pay the eVisitor visa processing fees and submit the application
• 3. Receive the approved eVisitor visa by email

Information required to fill out the form includes basic personal details, passport data, and some travel information.

The information provided must match the UK passport exactly . The application may be denied if there are any mistakes on the form. May also get a ban for providing false and misleading information.

What you need to apply for an Australia eVisitor Visa from the United Kingdom

Here’s what you need to complete your eVisitor visa application from the United Kingdom:

• UK passport
• Valid email address
• Phone number
• Credit/debit card

You must travel to Australia with the passport you used to apply for a visa. If your passport expires or you get a new passport, you need to apply for a new eVisitor visa .

Travelling to Australia as a British citizen with the eVisitor Visa

Before arriving in Australia, visa holders must complete an Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) while onboard the flight.

You must list the following on your IPC:

• Contacts in Australia
• The address where you will be staying
• Any cash you are carrying above $10,000
• Customs and quarantine declarations
• Flight details
• Intention to live in Australia

You will present your documents to Australian Border Force on arrival in the country.

British Embassy registration for UK citizens

British citizens are advised to register with the British embassy in Australia for their trip.

Registering allows the government to send the visitor important travel updates and security information. The embassy can also easily contact the traveller in an emergency.

Some advantages of using this service, include:

• Up-to-date travel and security information
• Easy location of the registered citizen in case of an emergency
• Quick contact from friends and family if needed urgently

British nationals travelling to Australia can register for this service when they apply for the Australia ETA or eVisitor visa.

FAQ About UK citizens travelling to Australia

Can uk citizens travel to australia without a visa.

Citizens of the UK need a visa to enter Australia. British passport holders must apply for a visa before departure ; visas on arrival are not available.

Fortunately, British citizens can obtain a visa for Australia online . The Australia eVisitor is available to UK citizens visiting Australia for business or on holiday.

To apply for the visa, UK nationals should submit the online application form at least 1 or 2 days before departure . Most requests are approved almost immediately but some may take up to 24 hours.

The permit is valid for 12 months from the issue date, British eVisitor visa holders can enter Australia multiple times during the 1-year validity period.

How long can British citizens stay in Australia?

UK passport holders must have a visa to travel to Australia. The Australian eVisitor visa is the best option for short business trips and tourist activities as the application is fully online.

British nationals can stay in Australia for up to 90 days with an eVisitor visa. The visa is valid for 12 months from the date of issue and can be used to travel to Australia multiple times. Each stay in the country must not exceed the 3-month limit.

UK citizens who wish to stay in Australia for longer than 90 days require a different type of visa or permit .

Can UK citizens apply for an eVisitor visa online?

British passport holders can apply online for an Australia eVisitor visa . UK citizens do not need to go to an Australian embassy or consulate and can instead complete the application from home.

To request a visa for Australia, UK citizens must complete the online application form . Applicants are asked to provide personal details, passport data, and other travel information.

Visitors are advised to check all information carefully before sending the form as any mistakes could lead to delay or rejection.

Although most eVisa requests are approved within the same day , British applicants are advised to submit a request at least 1-2 days before departure.

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Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Australia

Telephone: 000 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding lawyers and funeral directors in Australia
• dealing with a death in Australia
• being arrested in Australia
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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