Before applying for an Australian visitors travel visa, it is recommended that applicants have a passport that is at least six months old. You can apply for an U.S. passport through an application acceptance office or passport agency office. You need proof of citizenship, proof of identity, copies of your proof of citizenship and identity, two color pictures that are 2 inches by 2 inches in size and the fee. The amount of the fee depends on if you are a needing a card, a book or both. Minor children must apply in person with both parents (in order to have the proper authorities witness signature of documents) and have their social security number. To find a nearby passport office or acceptance office go the the U.S. Department of State website.
With a passport in hand, you can fill out an application for a visitors/ETA visa (subclass 976) or a tourist (sub class 676) visa to Australia either online or at an Australian Embassy. The embassy locations can be found on the Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs website. Children can be listed on the adult's visa application form. Other adults cannot be listed on a single form. For example, friends or a married couple traveling together must file separate applications for a travel visa.
For those people who want to visit family in Australia, it is possible to apply for the Family Sponsored Visitor visa (subclass 679). This visa allows people to be in Australia for three- or six-month periods, special cases will allow a 12-month visa. A family member or government official must be willing to sponsor this visitor. The sponsor is financially responsible for the visitor who is not allowed to work in the country during this time. The visitor must fill out form 1149. The sponsor fills out form 48S. Proof also must be documented of the familial relationship, including birth certificates with parental names on these certificates.
When applying for a visitors or tourist visa, you need a certified copy of your birth certificate, a passport from your country of residence and a color passport picture. Minor children need documentation showing they are traveling with one or both parents. If they are not traveling with either parent, minors must have a declaration or paperwork (form 1229) showing they can travel with the adult guardian.
