Visitor visas, known as Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visas, for Australia generally are valid for up to three months. However, some other types of visas allow travelers to stay up to 12 months.
Passport holders can receive an ETA visa. European travelers are issued an eVisitor visa. Tourist visas can be valid for up to 12 months. Family-sponsored visas are for people who are seeking to visit family and are valid for up to 12 months.
The ETA request is electronically submitted through an Australian embassy, travel agent or airline. The ETA also is available online through the Australian government website. There are no application forms to complete.
Tourist and Family-sponsored visas require standard paper applications, along with a valid passport. Applications can be picked up at an Australian Embassy.
Tourist and Family-sponsored visas cost $105, as of October 2009. There is no cost for an ETA. Processing times vary but average about two to three weeks.
