How Much Does an Australia ETA Cost for UK Citizens?

If you're a UK citizen planning a trip to Australia, you'll likely need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). It's a quick, cheap, and straightforward way to get permission to visit for tourism or business. The big question: how much does it cost?

And is it worth it compared to a visa?

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Australia ETA fee for UK citizens, the application process, and what to watch out for. I'll keep it clear and practical—no fluff. Let's get into it.

What is an Australia ETA for UK Citizens?

The Australia ETA (subclass 601) is an electronic travel authorisation that allows UK passport holders to visit Australia for short stays—up to 3 months per visit. It's for tourism, business visitor activities, or transit. It's not a visa stamped in your passport; instead, it's linked electronically to your passport number.

UK citizens are eligible because the UK is part of the ETA-eligible countries list. This makes travel easier than applying for a full visitor visa (subclass 600). The ETA is cheaper and faster.

The ETA system was introduced to streamline entry for low-risk travellers. It replaces the old paper visa label or stamp. You do not need to visit an embassy or consulate.

The entire process happens online through a dedicated mobile app.

Because the ETA is linked to your passport number, it is critical that your passport details match exactly. Even a small typo can cause delays. Always double-check every field before submitting.

How Much Does an Australia ETA Cost for UK Citizens?

The official fee for an Australia ETA is AUD 20 (Australian dollars). That's roughly £10.50 or $13 USD, depending on exchange rates. This fee is set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.

Where does the fee go?

The AUD 20 covers the cost of processing your application. There are no additional service charges if you apply through the official Australian ETA app. However, third-party websites or travel agents often add hefty markups—sometimes charging £50 or more.

You're better off using the official app.

Let's look at a concrete example. Suppose you find a website that offers to handle your ETA for £50. That is nearly five times the official fee.

The official app charges only the AUD 20 (about £10.50). The third-party site might also keep your personal data for marketing. Stick with the official app to save money and protect your privacy.

Another example: a travel agent might advertise a "visa service" for Australia at £75. They will simply fill out the same form you can use yourself. The official AUD 20 fee is the same.

Avoid paying unnecessary premiums.

Is the fee different for UK citizens?

No. The cost is the same for all eligible passport holders. UK citizens pay the same AUD 20 as citizens of other eligible countries like the US, Canada, and Japan.

This uniform fee makes the ETA one of the cheapest travel documents available. For comparison, the US ESTA costs USD 21 (around £17). The Canada ETA costs CAD 7 (about £4).

Australia's ETA sits in the middle.

Currency fluctuations mean the exact amount in pounds can vary slightly. On the day you apply, check the exchange rate. The app will show the AUD amount, and your card issuer will convert it.

Expect to pay between £10 and £11 in most cases.

How to Apply for an Australia ETA as a UK Citizen

The application process is digital-only. You must use the Australian ETA smartphone app (available for both iOS and Android). There is no paper form or desktop website application.

Here's a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Download the Australian ETA app

Search your app store for “Australian ETA” from the official Australian Department of Home Affairs. The icon is a blue and white logo with “ETA” on it. Only use this app; avoid third-party apps that charge extra fees.

Make sure your phone has a stable internet connection. The app is small (under 50 MB) and works offline for some steps. However, you need internet to submit and pay.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

You'll need your valid UK passport. Ensure it has at least 6 months validity remaining from your planned date of arrival in Australia. Also have a digital passport photo?

The app can use your phone camera, but a clean photo helps.

If your passport has less than 6 months left, renew it first. An ETA applied with a soon-expiring passport will be valid only until the passport expires. You will then need to apply again with the new passport.

Step 3: Fill out the application

Open the app and follow the prompts. You'll enter personal details: name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, employment details, and travel plans. You'll answer a few health and character questions (e.g., any criminal convictions).

Take your time with each field. The app saves your progress if you need to pause. Common mistakes include mistyping your passport number (check twice) or choosing the wrong country of birth.

A small error can lead to a refusal or delay.

Step 4: Pay the fee

Pay AUD 20 via credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express). The app processes payment securely. You'll get a receipt email.

The payment page is encrypted. If the transaction fails, try a different card or check your bank's international payment settings. Some UK banks block small overseas transactions.

Call your bank beforehand if you suspect issues.

Step 5: Wait for a decision

Most applications are approved within minutes. Sometimes it takes up to 12 hours. You'll get an email confirmation.

No need to print anything; the ETA is linked to your passport number.

If you apply on a weekend or Australian public holiday, processing may be slower. Plan to apply at least a few days before departure. I once applied on a Friday evening and received approval early Saturday morning.

Step 6: Check your ETA status

You can check your ETA status via the app or through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. Write down your ETA reference number.

It is wise to check your status 48 hours before flying. If the ETA is not showing as valid, contact the Department or reapply. Do not wait until you are at the airport.

How Long is the Australia ETA Valid For?

Once granted, the ETA is valid for 12 months from the date of approval. During that year, you can enter Australia multiple times, with each stay up to 3 months. You cannot extend a stay beyond 3 months; if you need longer, you must apply for a different visa.

The 12-month validity starts from the approval date, not from your travel date. So if you apply six months before your trip, you lose six months of validity. It is best to apply within a few weeks of your planned travel.

Each time you enter Australia, you get a fresh 3-month stay. You can exit and re-enter as many times as you like within the 12 months. However, immigration officers may question frequent short trips if they suspect you are living in Australia.

Who Needs an Australia ETA? (UK Citizens)

If you are a British citizen holding a valid UK passport, you must get an ETA before travelling to Australia for tourism or business visits. You cannot get one on arrival. Without a valid ETA, you will be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the border.

Note: UK residents who are not British citizens (e.g., non-UK passport holders) do not use the ETA system; they need a visa. Similarly, British Overseas Territories citizens (e.g., from Bermuda, Gibraltar) have different arrangements—check official sources.

For example, a friend of mine holds a UK passport but also has a second nationality from a non-eligible country. She must use her UK passport for the ETA application. If she used her other passport, she would need a visa instead.

What about transit?

If you're transiting through Australia to another country, you still need an ETA unless you hold a visa or meet exemption (e.g., you're a citizen of New Zealand). Transit without a valid ETA can lead to denied boarding.

Even if you stay inside the airport transit lounge, you need an ETA. The only exception is for citizens of New Zealand or those holding an Australian visa. Always check transit requirements before booking a flight with a long layover in Australia.

Australia ETA vs Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): Which to Choose?

For UK citizens, the ETA is usually the best option for short visits. But sometimes a visitor visa might be needed. Here's a quick comparison.

Choose the ETA if your stay is under 3 months and you meet eligibility. Choose the visitor visa if you need longer stays, want to work, or have a criminal record that might complicate the ETA.

Let's illustrate with a scenario. Sarah from London wants to visit her sister in Sydney for two weeks. She is a UK citizen with no criminal history.

The ETA is perfect. On the other hand, James from Manchester plans to stay five months to volunteer on a farm. He should apply for a visitor visa subclass 600 with work permission.

The ETA does not allow stays over 3 months or any work.

Another example: Emma has a minor drink-driving conviction from 10 years ago. She applies for an ETA but is refused because of the character question. She then applies for a visitor visa, which allows her to provide additional information about her rehabilitation.

The visitor visa is more flexible for borderline cases.

Can You Apply for an Australia ETA on Arrival?

No. Australia does not offer on-arrival ETAs or visas for UK citizens. You must have a valid ETA or visa before you board your flight. Airlines check this electronically.

If you don't have one, you won't be allowed to check in.

This rule applies even if you are only transiting. You cannot board a flight to Australia without a valid travel authorisation. The airline uses the Advance Passenger Processing (APP) system to verify that you have permission to enter.

If the system says no, you cannot fly.

How to Check if Your Australia ETA is Valid

You can check your ETA status through the Australian ETA app (select "Check your ETA") or via the official Department of Home Affairs website (VEVO system). It's a good idea to check a few days before travel to ensure it hasn't been cancelled or altered.

The VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) system is free to use. You will need your passport number, date of birth, and some personal details. The system shows your ETA status, expiry date, and conditions.

If your ETA appears as "not found" or "cancelled", do not panic. It may be a technical glitch. Try again later or contact the Department.

If it remains invalid, you may need to reapply.

What Happens if Your ETA Application is Refused?

A refusal is rare for UK citizens, but can happen if you have a criminal record, provide incorrect information, or fail health requirements. If refused, you'll get a letter with reasons. You cannot appeal an ETA refusal, but you can apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) which has a more thorough assessment.

The AUD 20 fee is not refunded.

For example, a UK citizen with a recent drug offence may be automatically refused an ETA. The letter will state the reason. The person can then gather character references and apply for a visitor visa with a detailed explanation.

That visa application costs AUD 190 and takes longer, but it allows a proper review.

If you believe the refusal was a mistake (e.g., a database error), you can contact the Department via their online form. Provide your ETA reference and explain the issue. Sometimes a manual check resolves it.

Australia ETA: Tips for a Smooth Application

• Apply at least a few days before travel – even though it's fast, technical glitches can occur.
• Double-check your passport number – a typo can cause delays or rejection.
• Use the official app only – third-party sites may overcharge or mismanage your data.
• Keep your passport valid – if you renew your passport, your ETA is invalid. You'll need to apply again.
• Carry a copy of your ETA confirmation – just in case the airline asks.

Some travellers recommend applying from the UK rather than while abroad. The app works anywhere, but network issues overseas can cause problems. If you have a stable connection, it's fine.

Another tip: ensure your phone's operating system is up to date. The ETA app sometimes requires the latest OS version. If you have an older phone, borrow a friend's or use a tablet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an Australia ETA

Many UK travellers make avoidable errors when applying. One common mistake is using a third-party website that looks official. These sites often charge extra fees and may not submit your application correctly.

Another frequent error is entering the passport number with spaces or dashes. The app expects just the alphanumeric characters without any punctuation. For example, if your passport number is "123456789", enter it exactly as "123456789", not "123-456-789".

Some applicants choose the wrong purpose of visit. For instance, selecting "tourism" when you actually plan to attend a short business conference is fine, but if you intend to work in Australia (even unpaid), that is not allowed under an ETA. Always be honest and accurate.

Incorrect date of birth is another common error. Double-check that the day and month are correct, especially if you are used to the British date format (DD/MM/YYYY) and the app expects MM/DD/YYYY. The app generally uses the format you choose, but always verify.

Finally, some people assume their ETA will still be valid after they renew their passport. It is not. If you get a new passport (lost, stolen, or expiry), you must apply for a new ETA with the new passport number.

What to Do If Your Passport Expires Before Your Trip

If your UK passport is due to expire within six months of your planned arrival in Australia, you should renew it before applying for an ETA. The ETA is linked to the passport number, and if the passport expires, the ETA becomes invalid.

Suppose you have a valid ETA linked to a passport that you later lose. You obtain a new passport with a different number. Your old ETA is now useless.

You must apply for a new ETA using the new passport. The AUD 20 fee is non-refundable for the old one.

To avoid wasting money, always check your passport's expiry date first. If it is less than six months away, renew it immediately. The UK Passport Office can process renewals in a few weeks if you pay for fast-track service.

Once you receive your new passport, you can apply for the ETA. Do not apply with the old passport even if it has a few months left, because you will need to carry that old passport for travel. It's simpler to start fresh.

Australia ETA for Families and Groups: Applying Together

If you are travelling with your family, each person needs their own ETA. There is no group application. Children and infants must have their own passport and pay the same AUD 20 fee.

You can apply for all family members using the same mobile app. The app allows you to submit multiple applications sequentially. Each applicant must have their passport in hand during the application.

For example, a family of four (two adults and two children) will pay AUD 80 total. The process takes about 20 minutes if you have all documents ready. Make sure each child's passport photo is clear; the app can take a photo for each person.

If a child is listed on a parent's passport (older UK passports sometimes included children), that is no longer allowed for ETA. Each child must have their own individual passport. If your child does not have a passport, you must apply for one separately.

Groups of friends or colleagues can also apply individually. There is no facility to link applications. However, you can all check the status of each other's ETAs by sharing reference numbers.

Understanding the Character and Health Requirements for ETA

The ETA application asks a few character and health questions. These are designed to identify risk. For UK citizens, most answers will be "no", but it is important to answer truthfully.

The character questions include: have you ever been convicted of a crime? Do you have any outstanding debts to the Australian government? Have you ever been deported from any country?

If you answer "yes" to any, the application may be refused immediately.

For health questions, you will be asked if you have any condition that might require medical treatment in Australia or if you have tuberculosis. If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, you may still be eligible as long as you can pay for treatment. The ETA does not require a medical exam unless you answer "yes".

Let's say a UK citizen had a minor theft conviction 20 years ago. They answer "yes" and the ETA is refused. They can then apply for a visitor visa, providing court documents and character references to prove rehabilitation.

The visitor visa officer can make a discretionary decision.

If you are unsure whether a conviction must be declared, declare it anyway. The Australian Department can check databases. Failing to disclose can lead to a ban.

It is better to be upfront.

How to Get Help with Your Australia ETA Application

If you encounter problems during the application, there are official sources of help. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has a dedicated ETA helpline. However, note that they may not answer individual queries about your application status.

You can also use the "Contact Us" form on their website. Explain your issue clearly and include your ETA reference number if you have one. Responses typically take 1-2 business days.

For technical issues with the app (e.g., it crashes or won't let you pay), try reinstalling the app, restarting your phone, or using a different device. If the problem persists, contact Apple or Google support for the app store.

The UK Foreign Office also provides travel advice for Australia. They can point you to the correct official channels but cannot process visas. Always rely on the Australian Department of Home Affairs for authoritative answers.

Avoid using online forums or social media for critical advice. Rumours can lead to mistakes. Stick with official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Australia ETA for UK Citizens

Here are common queries I hear from travellers.

Can I use my ETA if I have a dual nationality? Yes, you must apply with the passport you intend to travel with. If you have both a UK and another passport, use the UK one for the ETA. If you use the other passport, you may need a visa.

What if my ETA is approved but I change my travel plans? No problem. The ETA is valid for 12 months regardless of your initial travel dates. You can use it for any trip within that window.

Can I study in Australia on an ETA? No, you cannot study for more than 3 months. If you plan to enrol in a course longer than that, you need a student visa.

Is the ETA the same as a visa? No, the ETA is an electronic travel authorisation, not a visa. It is simpler and cheaper. However, both allow you to enter Australia.

Can I apply for an ETA if I have a criminal record? Possibly, but it depends on the severity. Minor offences may be okay, but you must answer truthfully. If in doubt, consult a migration agent or apply for a visitor visa instead.

Other Travel Authorisations for UK Citizens

If you're planning more trips, you might need similar e-visas or authorisations for other countries. For instance, you can read about the Canada ETA for UK citizens, which costs CAD 7 and takes minutes. The visa waiver program is a similar concept used by the US (ESTA) and other nations.

And if you're heading to the Middle East, check out the Saudi Arabia travel authorisation UK citizens need (SAVE). Each system has its own fees and rules.

Some countries, like New Zealand, also offer an ETA-like system for UK citizens (NZeTA). It costs NZD 9 and is similarly applied via an app. These schemes are designed to speed up border processing while maintaining security.

If you travel frequently, keep a list of validity dates for each authorisation. Overlapping trips can be complicated. For example, your Australia ETA might still be valid when you visit New Zealand, but you still need a separate NZeTA.

Where to Get Official Information

This guide is for general information. Always verify requirements with the official source. The Australian Department of Home Affairs website (homeaffairs.gov.au) is authoritative.

You can also check the official ETA page for the latest fees, eligible passport holders, and application rules. Rules can change, so consult official sources before your trip.

Do not rely solely on third-party blogs or old articles. The Australian government updates its policies regularly. For the most current information, always start at the official site.

If you have a complex situation, such as a criminal record or health issue, consider consulting a registered migration agent. They can advise you on the best visa option and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Key Takeaways

• UK citizens pay AUD 20 for an Australia ETA.
• Apply only via the official Australian ETA app.
• ETA is valid for 12 months, multiple entries up to 3 months each.
• No on-arrival option; get your ETA before flying.
• Third-party sites often charge more—stick with the official app.

See also: UK ETA application requirements