How to Apply for Australia Tourist Visa for US Citizens

The land down under, Australia, is a pretty easy country to get a visa to visit for American passport holders. With a valid U.S. passport in hand, this guide will show you how to apply for Australia tourist visa for US citizens without hassle.

Step 1 of Australia Tourist Visa for US Citizens – Is Your US Passport Valid?

Before we delve into the steps to get your Australia Tourist Visa, first check that you have a valid U.S. passport and make sure that the expiration date is valid for at least 6 months from your planned travel date. Once you have that quick check sorted, here are the easy steps to take to get your Australian tourist visa approved before your next adventure.

Step 2 of Australia Tourist Visa for US Citizens – What Type of Tourist Visa Do You Need?

There are 3 different types of Australia tourist visas for Americans:

1. Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601)
2. Tourist stream (apply outside Australia)
3. Tourist stream (apply in Australia)

Electronic Travel Authority

US citizens planning to visit Australia should consider applying for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for their visa application. This visa allows Americans to visit as frequently as desired within 12 months, with a maximum stay of 3 months in Australia each time.

The ETA is an electronic, label-free visa, and the application process involves downloading an app on your phone. Through the app, travelers can upload their passport and travel information for visa processing. This streamlined electronic system offers convenience for US citizens planning their visits to Australia.

Cost – There is no visa application fee, only a service charge of AUD20 (20 Australian Dollars)

Requirements – valid US passport and destination address in Australia

Processing Time – many have reported receiving their visa in less than a minute after submission.

Download the App – Android or Apple

If you have difficulties using the app, click here for a detailed guide on how to use the app.

Tourist stream (apply outside Australia)

American visitors who intend to frequently visit Australia within 12 months, with the flexibility to stay for up to 3, 6, or 12 months without leaving the country, can opt for the Tourist Visa Stream. This visa is particularly suitable for travelers who prefer not to exit Australia every three months during the visa’s 12-month validity.

For Americans seeking this visa option, it’s important to note that the application must be submitted while they are outside Australia to be granted this visa.

Cost – visa application fee is AUD190

Requirements – see below

Processing Time – many have reported receiving their visa within 30 days.

Apply for Visa – Apply using Australia’s ImmiAccount Platform

Tourist stream (apply in Australia)

American visitors who wish to extend their stay in Australia for an additional 12 months without leaving the country can apply for the Tourist Visa Stream. To be eligible for this visa option, Americans must submit their application while already within Australia. The visa will be granted once the application is approved

Cost – visa application fee is AUD475

Requirements – see below

Processing Time – many have reported receiving their visa extension within 30 days.

Apply for Visa – Apply using Australia’s ImmiAccount Platform

Requirements for Tourist Stream Visa Application

After determining the type of visa you desire, you can review the specific requirements outlined in the details. For the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Tourist Stream, here is a list of what you may need:

• Valid Passport – Scan the bio page of your passport, displaying your photo, name, and other passport details.
• Passport-Sized Photo – Provide passport-type photographs meeting strict criteria, taken within the last three months against an all-white background and printed on high-quality photo paper. The photos should be identical, two inches by two inches in size, displaying a full frontal view of your head with a neutral (non-smiling) expression. Do not wear eyeglasses or headwear, except for religious purposes. Ensure the photo is not affixed to your application, and there should be no evidence of adhesive tape or staples. See here for our passport photo guide.
• Travel Itinerary – Submit a description of your planned activities in Australia.
• Proof of Incentive to Return Home – Provide evidence of ties to the U.S., ensuring your return. This can be in the form of personal ties (marriage certificate or birth certificate), property ties (lease, deed, mortgage, etc.), investment ties, or a written statement explaining your motivation to leave Australia before your visa expires.
• Letter of Current Employment or Self Employment – If employed, submit a letter stating your length of employment, salary, granted paid leave, and confirmation of job retention upon return. If self-employed, provide proof of business registration, such as tax forms and licenses.
• Proof of travel arrangements – Include a copy of your itinerary or e-ticket, displaying your flight’s round ticket information, including entry and exit dates. Ensure the traveler’s full name on the ticket matches the information on the passport data page.
• Visa Application Form – Complete the online visa application form.

Check Australia Tourist Visa Application Status

To check the status of your tourist visa, log into your ImmiAccount to check the progress of an online application.

Warning About the Australia Tourist Visa

If you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Contact the Embassy of Australia

Visit the Embassy of Australia website for the most current visa information.  

Additional information about Australian immigration health requirements can be found here.

To verify this information with the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. before you travel, see below for contact information:

Safety for Women Traveling to Australia

With your visa to Australia secured, it’s time to go full throttle in planning for your trip.

Australia is currently listed on our list of safe travel destinations for women, as it is recognized for being a safe country for women traveling solo. Nevertheless, women traveling to Australia should exercise caution and common sense in every situation and also make sure to read this guide on ways to stay safe while traveling.

Flights to Australia

Haven’t booked your ticket yet?! What are you waiting for?!