Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) Subclass 601
The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) Subclass 601 is a digital visa that allows eligible travelers to visit Australia for short-term tourism or business purposes. Here’s a comprehensive overview based on the latest information:
🛂 What Is the Subclass 601 ETA?
The ETA Subclass 601 is an electronically stored authorization for travel to Australia. It permits multiple entries within a 12-month period, with each stay limited to 3 months. The visa is primarily intended for:
Tourism: Leisure travel, sightseeing, visiting family or friends.
Business Visitor Activities: Attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, or trade fairs. Note that this does not permit paid employment.
Short-Term Study or Training: Up to 3 months in total.
🌍 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Subclass 601 ETA, you must:
Hold an Eligible Passport: Citizens from specific countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and most European Union nations, are eligible.
Apply from Outside Australia: Applications must be lodged while outside Australia and granted before entering.
Meet Health and Character Requirements: Applicants should not have any serious health conditions or criminal convictions.
Be a Genuine Visitor: You must intend to stay temporarily and comply with visa conditions.
💰 Cost
Service Fee: AUD 20 when applying through the Australian ETA app.
No Visa Application Charge (VAC): There is no additional fee for the visa itself.
⏱️ Processing Time
Standard Processing: Most applications are processed instantly or within a few hours.
Additional Processing: If further information is required, processing may take longer.
🛬 Travel and Stay Conditions
Validity: The ETA is valid for 12 months or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Stay Duration: You can stay up to 3 months per visit.
Multiple Entries: The visa allows multiple entries within its validity period.
Work Restrictions: Engaging in paid work is prohibited. Unpaid volunteer work may be allowed in certain circumstances.
📌 Important Notes
New Passport: If you renew your passport, your existing ETA becomes invalid. You must apply for a new ETA using your new passport.
Family Applications: Each family member, including children, must apply separately; they cannot be included in the same application.
Health Insurance: While not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to have health insurance during your stay in Australia.