Australia ETA requirements for Canadian citizens
Apply for an ETACanadian citizens can travel to Australia with an Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601).
With an approved ETA, Canadians can visit Australia multiple times for up to 3 months per stay.
The online application makes the ETA the most convenient option for Canadians travelling to Australia on vacation, to visit family, or on business.
To apply for the ETA, Canadians must meet the ETA requirements explained on this page.
Do I need a visa for Australia from Canada?
Yes, as a Canadian citizen, you must hold a valid visa to travel to Australia. Fortunately, Canadians are eligible for the ETA, available online. The ETA is for trips of up to 3 months for leisure and business purposes. Canadians who wish to stay longer than 90 days need a different type of Australian visa, such as a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).
Activities permitted with an ETA for Canadian citizens
The ETA is suitable for Canadians travelling to Australia:
- On vacation, including taking a cruise
- To visit family or friends
- For short business trips
ETA for Canadians on an Australian cruise
Canadians need an ETA to enter Australia during a cruise.
For round-trip cruises, you are not considered to have left Australia during the cruise. This means that time of your cruise counts as time in Australia and must be within your 3-month stay limit.
Business activities in Australia with an ETA
Canadians can carry out some short-term business activities in Australia with an ETA. These include:
- General business enquiries
- Negotiating and reviewing business contracts
- Official government visit activities
- Conferences, trade shows and seminars
You cannot work in Australia with an ETA. A different visa allowing for work is required.
Requirements to apply for an Australia ETA from Canada
Canadians must meet several eligibility requirements to apply for an ETA. These include meeting the health and security standards.
Health requirements for Canadian ETA applicants
Like all international visitors, Canadians must meet Australia’s health requirements. This means Canadian visitors need to be free from conditions that could be harmful to public health in Australia or be costly for the community.
A medical examination could be requested in some situations.
Character requirements for Canadian ETA applicants
Canadians also need to meet character requirements to be granted an ETA and travel to Australia. Travellers with a substantial criminal record or who are considered likely to engage in criminal behaviour whilst in Australia may not be granted an ETA.
You must declare all your criminal record information when applying for the ETA. Applications are assessed individually based on individual circumstances. Additional documents may be required to support your application.
How do I apply for an Australian visa from Canada?
You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority from Canada online by following this step-by-step guide:
1. Complete the online ETA application form
- Personal and passport data
- Contact details
- Travel information
2. Submit your application for review
- Applications are reviewed by Australian authorities
3. Receive ETA approval
- You’ll receive your ETA approval by email
Note that you must apply for your ETA and travel to Australia using the same passport. If you get a new passport, you must also apply for a new ETA.
How long does it take Canadians to get an Australian ETA visa?
Online visa processing for Australia is usually quick. However, times may vary depending on whether you need to provide supporting documents for health or security reasons.
As explained above, you might be required to go through a medical examination as well to determine whether or not you fit the health criteria.
Canadians are advised to apply as soon as possible before their planned trip to Australia.
Canadian Embassy Registration service with your Australia ETA
You can register with the Canadian High Commission in Australia through our website while getting your ETA.
This gives you a vital connection to home in case of emergency while you are staying in Australia.
The Canadian consular staff will be able to contact you and provide assistance, or help you contact home.
To register and have peace of mind while travelling, simply choose the Embassy Registration option while completing your Australia ETA application with us.
Travelling from Canada to Australia with an ETA
If you are flying into Australia from Canada, you will be asked to fill out an Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) onboard the aeroplane, which asks you about; your travel plans, contacts in Australia, the address you will be staying at, and any customs or quarantine declarations among other things.
Once you are cleared by the Australian Border Force, your ETA will be attached to your passport and this will allow you to travel to and within Australia.
FAQ About Canadian Citizens Traveling to Australia
How long can a Canadian stay in Australia with an ETA? Toggle faqs
Canadians can travel to Australia for up to 3 months at a time with an approved Electronic Travel Authority.
It is a multiple-entry permit valid for 12 months. This means Canadians can visit Australia several times during the 1-year period, for up to 90 days per stay.
To stay in Australia for longer than 3 months, another type of Australian visa or permit is required.
Can Canadians get an Australian ETA at the airport? Toggle faqs
Canadians should apply for their Australian ETA as soon as possible before their planned departure.
The ETA is a mandatory entry requirement and should be prioritized when planning a trip to Australia.
Around 90% of ETA applications are processed within 24 hours and many are approved almost immediately. However, to avoid disappointment Canadians should apply in advance and not wait until they are at the airport.
What documents do Canadians need to apply for an Australian ETA? Toggle faqs
Canadians must hold a valid passport to apply for the Australia ETA. The travel permit is linked to the passport used to apply and is only valid with this travel document.
Additional documents may be requested after applying to prove the applicant meets health or character requirements.