Home Arrow FAQs Arrow What is the $20 Australian Visa? Everything You Need to Know in 2025

What is the $20 Australian Visa? Everything You Need to Know in 2025

As a member of Australian Immigration Services, I get asked a lot of questions about visa fees and options for traveling to Australia. One of the most common questions I hear is:
"What is the $20 Australian visa?"

It might sound too good to be true, especially when you hear that most visas can be quite costly. But there’s a specific type of visa that only costs $20, and it’s available to travelers from eligible countries.

In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about the $20 Australian visa, also known as the ETA (Electronic Travel Authority), including who can apply for it, what it covers, and how you can apply.

What is the $20 Australian Visa (ETA)?

The $20 Australian visa is a special electronic visa known as the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – Subclass 601. It's a quick and affordable visa option for eligible travelers who want to visit Australia for tourism or short-term business activities.

  • Fee: AUD $20
  • Validity: 12 months, allowing multiple visits
  • Duration of stay: Up to 3 months per visit
  • Eligibility: Eligibility for the AUD $20 ETA is limited to citizens of select countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Brunei, and a small number of other eligible nationalities as defined by the Australian Government.

The ETA allows you to enter Australia without needing to go through the embassy or apply for a traditional visa. It’s linked directly to your passport, making it super convenient for travelers.

Who Is Eligible for the $20 Australian ETA?

Not everyone can apply for the ETA. This visa is available to citizens of certain countries. The eligibility list includes countries such as:

  • United States
  • Canada
  • Japan
  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • Several European countries

If you’re a citizen of one of these countries, you may be able to apply for the ETA, which costs just $20 AUD. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, you can check eligibility through the Australian Immigration Services platform.

How Do You Apply for the $20 Australian ETA?

Applying for an ETA is simple and can be done entirely online, making it a fast and efficient process. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Check Eligibility: Make sure you’re from an ETA-eligible country.
  2. Gather Necessary Information: You’ll need your valid passport, travel plans, and possibly a few supporting documents (like proof of funds or accommodation).
  3. Submit Your Application: You must apply for the ETA exclusively through the official Australian ETA app.
  4. Pay the Fee: The ETA costs AUD $20, which is paid online as part of the application process.
  5. Wait for Approval: In most cases, your ETA will be approved within minutes, although it may take up to a few hours in some cases.

Once approved, the ETA will be electronically linked to your passport. You won’t need a visa label, and you can simply present your passport when you arrive in Australia.

Start your application now here:
Apply for an Australia visa online

Why Is the $20 ETA Such a Great Option?

The $20 ETA is an excellent option for travelers from eligible countries who want to visit Australia for short trips. It’s affordable, fast, and much easier to obtain compared to other visa types, which often require more paperwork and longer processing times.

Here are some reasons why the ETA is great for travelers:

  • Quick Approval: Most applications are approved within minutes.
  • Multiple Entries: Your ETA is valid for 12 months and allows you to visit multiple times during that period.
  • No Need to Visit an Embassy: The ETA is entirely online, so you don’t need to make an appointment or visit an embassy in person.
  • Affordable: At just AUD $20, it’s a cost-effective option for many travelers.

Real Experiences: How Travelers Have Benefited from the $20 ETA

Many travelers I’ve worked with have benefited from the $20 ETA. One of our clients, a tourist from the United States, was able to apply for and receive approval for their ETA in just a few minutes, allowing them to board their flight to Australia the next day without any issues.

Similarly, a business traveler from Japan applied for the ETA for an upcoming conference, and the process was smooth and quick, with approval arriving before they even finished their morning coffee.

These examples show how the ETA has simplified travel to Australia for many people, and it can do the same for you!

Final Thoughts: Is the $20 Australian Visa Right for You?

To sum it up, the $20 Australian visa, or ETA, is a fantastic, low-cost option for eligible travelers. It’s quick, easy, and affordable, making it a top choice for tourism or short-term business visitors from countries like the United States, Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore.

 

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