Australia Visa Requirements: Everything Tourists Need to Know

Are you dreaming of exploring Australia’s stunning beaches, vibrant cities, or iconic Outback? Before you pack your bags, understanding Australia visa requirements for tourists is essential. As of February 27, 2025, every non-Australian citizen needs a visa to enter the country—except New Zealanders, who get a special pass upon arrival. With over a decade of travel expertise and firsthand trips to Australia, our team has navigated the visa process multiple times. Combined with the latest updates from the Australian Department of Home Affairs and insights from Tourism Australia, this guide covers everything you need to know for a hassle-free trip Down Under.

Why Do Tourists Need a Visa for Australia?

Australia enforces a universal visa policy to manage its borders effectively. Whether you’re snapping selfies at the Sydney Opera House or snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, a visa ensures you’re legally permitted to enter and stay. Our team’s traveled from Jakarta, LA, and London to Australia, and every time, the visa process was straightforward yet mandatory. Tourism Australia reports over 9.3 million short-term visitors in 2018-19, a trend that’s continued to grow—so getting your visa right is key to joining the crowd!

Types of Tourist Visas for Australia in 2025

Here’s a breakdown of the main visa options for tourists, based on your nationality and travel plans:

1. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) - Subclass 601

Who’s Eligible: Passport holders from 30+ countries, including the US, Canada, UK, and Malaysia.
Cost: AUD 20 service fee (free to apply via the ETA app).
Validity: 12 months, multiple entries, up to 3 months per visit.
How to Apply: Download the Australian ETA app (iOS/Android) and apply in minutes.
Why It’s Great: We’ve used this for quick trips—like a 5-day Sydney getaway—and it’s fast, often approved instantly. Perfect for tourism or short business visits.

2. eVisitor Visa - Subclass 651

Who’s Eligible: EU citizens and select European countries (e.g., Germany, France).
Cost: Free.
Validity: 12 months, multiple entries, up to 3 months per visit.
How to Apply: Online via ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs site.
Why It’s Great: No cost and easy to get—our European teammate got hers in 48 hours for a Melbourne trip!

3. Visitor Visa - Subclass 600 (Tourist Stream)

Who’s Eligible: All nationalities, especially those not covered by ETA or eVisitor.
Cost: AUD 190 (offshore), AUD 475 (onshore).
Validity: 3, 6, or 12 months, single or multiple entries.
How to Apply: Online via ImmiAccount or paper application at an Australian embassy.
Why It’s Great: Flexible for longer stays—our Indian colleague used it for a 6-month family visit in 2024.

Key Australia Visa Requirements for Tourists

Regardless of visa type, you’ll need to meet these core requirements, per the Department of Home Affairs:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for your entire stay—6 months recommended for onward travel.
• Proof of Funds: Show bank statements or sponsorship letters (e.g., AUD 5,000+ for a month-long trip).
• Intent to Leave: Evidence like return tickets or a job letter—our team always includes a return flight booking.
• Health & Character: No serious illnesses or criminal records; some may need medical checks.
• Health Insurance: Strongly advised—Medicare isn’t available for tourists.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your Visa

1. Choose Your Visa: Use the Visa Finder on homeaffairs.gov.au—our go-to tool for matching nationality to visa type.
2. Gather Documents: Passport copy, financial proof, travel itinerary—certified translations if not in English.
3. Apply Online: ETA via app, others via ImmiAccount. Paper apps go to your nearest Australian embassy.
4. Pay Fees: AUD 20 (ETA), free (eVisitor), or AUD 190+ (Visitor)—non-refundable, so double-check!
5. Wait for Approval: ETA/eVisitor: hours to days; Visitor: weeks—apply 4+ weeks early, advises our team.

Real Traveler Insights

“I got my ETA approved in 10 minutes via the app for a last-minute Sydney trip—super easy!” – Lisa, US traveler, 2025.
“The Visitor Visa took 3 weeks from Jakarta, but showing my bank balance and job letter sealed the deal,” – Andi, Indonesian tourist, 2024.

Why Trust This Guide?

Our team’s traveled to Australia for over a decade, securing ETAs, eVisitors, and Visitor Visas from multiple countries. We’ve cross-checked this info with the Australian Department of Home Affairs and Tourism Australia (9.3 million visitors stat, 2018-19), plus platforms like TripAdvisor for traveler feedback. Updated as of February 27, 2025, this guide is your reliable roadmap to Australia’s visa process.

Ready to explore Australia? From visa costs starting at AUD 20 to must-know requirements, you’re set for a smooth entry. Apply now and start planning your adventure Down Under!

Need more visa tips or travel inspiration? Visit Enaknya Kemana, your trusted source for global travel know-how.