The Australian ETA app is the official government mobile application for submitting Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) applications. It is the only authorized channel – there is no website alternative. The service fee is AUD 20 per applicant, with no Visa Application Charge.
What Is the Australian ETA App?
The Australian ETA app is the official mobile application developed by the Department of Home Affairs for processing Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) applications. It is the only authorized channel for submitting an ETA (subclass 601) application – there is no website, paper form, or alternative method available.
The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is an electronically stored authority equivalent to a visa, linked to your passport number. It allows eligible passport holders from 34 countries to visit Australia for tourism or business visitor purposes. The ETA permits multiple entries for up to 12 months (or until passport expiry, whichever is shorter), with stays of up to 3 months per visit.
There is no Visa Application Charge (VAC) for an ETA, however there is an application service fee of AUD 20 to use the Australian ETA app. Payment can be made by credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
The app uses advanced technology including NFC passport scanning and live facial recognition to verify applicants’ identities. According to the Australian High Commission in Malaysia, applicants should apply at least 4 weeks in advance as some may be asked to provide further information. Email outcomes are typically sent within 72 hours.
European passport holders may alternatively be eligible for an eVisitor (subclass 651) visa, which does not require the app.
How to Download the App
Download the official app from your device’s app store:
| Platform | Store | Search Term |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone / iPad | Apple App Store | “AustralianETA” |
| Android | Google Play Store | “AustralianETA” |
Important verification: Check that the app publisher is listed as the Australian Government or Department of Home Affairs. The app icon features the Australian Government coat of arms. The app is completely free to download.
Warning – avoid scam apps: The Australian Embassy in the USA specifically warns about third-party websites and apps that are not official Department-approved platforms. Known non-official sites include jsdimmigrations.com, jsdvisa.com, australiaevisas.org, australiavacationsonline.com, and ivisa.com. Using these sites risks losing money, having your ETA refused, being denied boarding, or being refused entry at the Australian border by the Australian Border Force.
If you suspect a scam, report it to Australia’s Border Watch at homeaffairs.gov.au/report.
App System Requirements
Before downloading, ensure your device meets these requirements. According to the Australian High Commission in Malaysia, all of the following are mandatory:
| Requirement | iOS (iPhone/iPad) | Android |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | iOS 14.0 or later | Android 8.0 or later |
| NFC capability | iPhone 7 or newer | Most phones from 2016+ |
| Camera | Front-facing camera | Front-facing camera |
| Location services | Must be enabled | Must be enabled |
| Storage | ~100 MB | ~100 MB |
| Internet | Required (Wi-Fi recommended) | Required (Wi-Fi recommended) |
NFC (Near Field Communication) is essential for scanning your passport’s biometric chip. Most modern smartphones have NFC capability, but some budget models may not. If your phone lacks NFC, you will need to use a different device or apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through ImmiAccount instead.
Location services must also be enabled on your device. This is a mandatory requirement for the application to function properly.
How to Scan Your Passport
The passport scan is one of the most critical steps in the ETA application. The app reads the biometric chip embedded in your passport to capture your personal details automatically, including your name, date of birth, passport number, and other biographical information.
Step-by-step scanning process:
- Open the Australian ETA app and select “New Application”
- Open your passport to the data page (the page with your photo and personal details)
- Place your phone flat against the data page, with the back of the phone touching the passport
- Hold the phone steady – the NFC reader will automatically detect the chip
- Wait for the progress indicator to complete (usually 5-15 seconds)
- Verify that the captured details match your passport
Troubleshooting scanning issues:
- Remove your phone case if it is thick or has metal components
- Make sure NFC is enabled in your phone settings
- Try moving the phone slowly across the data page to find the chip location
- Ensure the passport is on a flat, non-metallic surface
- If the chip is damaged, you may need a new passport or apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through ImmiAccount
Note: If your passport changes after your ETA is granted, you will need to apply for a new ETA linked to the new passport number.
Taking the Perfect Selfie
The Australian ETA app requires a live facial image for identity verification. This selfie is compared against the photo stored on your passport chip to confirm your identity. You must be physically present for this step – no one else can take the selfie on your behalf, even if a family member or travel agent is helping with the application.
Tips for a successful selfie:
- Lighting: Face a window or light source. Avoid backlighting (light behind you)
- Glasses: Remove all glasses, including prescription glasses
- Expression: Keep a neutral expression – no smiling or frowning
- Position: Center your face in the oval guide on screen
- Distance: Hold the phone at arm’s length for a clear shot
- Background: Use a plain, light-colored background
- Hats: Remove hats (religious head coverings are acceptable if they don’t cover your face)
Common selfie failures:
- Dark or uneven lighting causing shadows on face
- Face not centered in the guide oval
- Movement blur from unsteady hands
- Wearing glasses that create glare
For families: Each applicant, including infants and children, must submit a separate application. If helping a family member on the same device, they must be physically present for their photo.
Troubleshooting Common App Issues
If you encounter problems with the ETA app, try these solutions:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| App crashes on startup | Update to the latest version, restart your phone |
| Passport scan fails | Remove phone case, enable NFC, try different positions on data page |
| Selfie keeps getting rejected | Improve lighting, remove glasses, use plain background |
| Payment fails | Check card details, try a different card, ensure international payments enabled |
| App says “update required” | Update the app from your app store to the latest version |
| Application stuck on “processing” | Wait up to 72 hours for email outcome, check junk/spam folder |
| Location services error | Enable location services in phone settings for the ETA app |
If you receive a message that your ETA cannot be processed, you must provide additional information through ImmiAccount. You will need to complete Form 1554: ETA request for further processing and attach supporting documents including passport copy, employment evidence, funds evidence, and travel arrangements.
For additional support, contact the Global Service Centre on +61 2 6196 0196, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm your local time. Select option 6 for a Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) interpreter.
App vs Website Application (Scam Awareness)
There is no website option for ETA applications. This is a common source of confusion and scams. Here is what you need to know:
- The app is the only authorized channel – No website accepts ETA applications directly
- Third-party websites are not legitimate – Websites offering to process your ETA for a fee are not authorized
- ImmiAccount is for other visas – The ImmiAccount online system handles Visitor visas and other visa types, but NOT the ETA
- Migration agents use the app – Even registered migration agents must use the official app, and you must be physically present
Known non-official websites to avoid (per the Australian Embassy USA):
| Website | Risk |
|---|---|
| jsdimmigrations.com | Unauthorized, excessive fees |
| jsdvisa.com | Unauthorized, excessive fees |
| australiaevisas.org | Not government-affiliated |
| australiavacationsonline.com | Not government-affiliated |
| ivisa.com | Unauthorized, excessive fees |
Risks of using third-party sites:
- Losing any upfront cash paid to the agent
- Having your ETA refused
- Not being permitted on your flight to Australia
- Being refused entry at the Australian border by the Australian Border Force
Always verify that information comes from an official Australian Government website ending in .gov.au. Report suspected scams to Border Watch at homeaffairs.gov.au/report.
Tips for a Smooth Application
Based on official guidance from the Australian High Commission and Embassy, follow these tips for the smoothest possible ETA application:
- Apply at least 4 weeks before travel – Some applicants may be asked to provide further information, which takes additional processing time
- Do not finalize travel commitments until you have received your visa grant notification
- Use Wi-Fi – A stable internet connection prevents submission errors
- Charge your phone – Ensure at least 50% battery before starting
- Have your passport ready – Keep it flat and accessible on a non-metallic surface
- Prepare good lighting – Set up for the selfie before starting the application
- Remove phone case – Thick or metal cases can interfere with NFC scanning
- Enable location services – Required for the app to function
- Have payment ready – Credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay for the AUD 20 fee
- Save your reference number – Note down your application reference for future queries
For group or family travel: Use the Group ID function in ImmiAccount when applying. All members of the same group should quote the same Group ID. Each person, including infants and children, must submit a separate application, but you can use the same mobile device if they are physically present for their photo.
Check your visa status through the Australian ETA app or by using the Check an ETA function at eta.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Australian ETA app legitimate?
Yes, the Australian ETA app is the official government application published by the Department of Home Affairs. It is the only authorized channel for ETA (subclass 601) applications. Verify the publisher is listed as the Australian Government in your app store. The service fee is AUD 20 – if you are charged more, you are likely dealing with a scam site.
How do I complete the Australian ETA visa application?
Download the app, scan your passport using NFC, take a live selfie, answer eligibility questions (including about criminal convictions), and pay the AUD 20 service fee. Wait for an email outcome within 72 hours. Apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date.
Which apps should I download for Australian ETA?
Download only the official “AustralianETA” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Verify the publisher is the Australian Government or Department of Home Affairs. Do not download unofficial apps with similar names.
How do I get an Australia ETA as a US citizen?
US passport holders are eligible for the ETA (subclass 601). Download the AustralianETA app, scan your passport, take a selfie, and pay AUD 20. Apply at least 4 weeks before travel. No Visa Application Charge applies – only the AUD 20 service fee.
Can I apply for an ETA without the app?
No, the official Australian ETA app is the only authorized channel for ETA applications. There is no website, paper form, or alternative method. Third-party websites offering ETA applications are not legitimate.
What if my phone does not support NFC?
If your phone lacks NFC capability, you cannot complete the passport scan step. Options include borrowing an NFC-enabled phone temporarily, asking a migration agent for assistance (you must still be physically present), or applying for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through ImmiAccount instead.
How long does ETA processing take?
Most applications receive an email outcome within 72 hours. However, some applicants may be asked to provide additional information through ImmiAccount, which can take longer. Apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date. Check your email including junk/spam folders for outcome notifications.
Can I use the app on a tablet?
The app is designed for smartphones. While it may work on some tablets with NFC capability, it is not officially supported on tablets. Use a smartphone for the best experience.
Last updated: June 2026. Based on official guidance from the Australian Department of Home Affairs, Australian Embassy USA, and Australian High Commission Malaysia. Download the official app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Report scams to Border Watch.
