Americans and others wishing to visit Australia may be able to apply online for entry through the Electronic Travel Authority. The ETA takes the place of a visa, can be approved instantly and allows for a stay of up to three months.
For longer stays of three, six or 12 months, visitors must apply for a Tourist visa (subclass 676). In some cases, foreign citizens can visit family in Australia under a Sponsored Family Visitor visa (subclass 679) for up to one year.
For longer Tourist visas, visitors can apply online through the Australian government's Department of Immigration and Citizenship. Sponsored Family Visitor visas can also be applied for online but require "formal sponsorship by an Australian citizen or permanent resident."
According to the U.S. State Department Travel Bureau, many travel agents and even airlines in the United States can arrange for ETAs on behalf of travelers upon booking.
The U.S. State Department warns that foreign citizens who overstay their visas "may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal" from Australia.
