Australian Visa for French Citizens

Apply for eVisitor

If you’re planning to visit Australia as a French citizen, it's essential to understand the visa requirements and mandatory entry documents you need before a trip to the country.

In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know about the Australian visa process for French citizens.

Australia Entry Requirements for French Citizens

For French citizens, entering Australia is relatively straightforward, provided you meet the necessary requirements. These include having :

  • A valid passport with at least 3 months' validity from the date of your intended date of entry to Australia

Do French Citizens Need an Australian Visa?

Yes, French citizens need a visa to enter Australia.

Depending on the purpose and duration of your stay, you may apply for one of the following types of visas:

  1. eVisitor Visa (subclass 651): For tourists, business visitors, family visits, transit purposes, to visit on a cruise, or other short-term purposes.
  2. Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462): For young French citizens aged 18 to 30, this visa enables you to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months.
  3. Student Visa (subclass 500): If you plan to study in Australia, this visa allows you to stay for the duration of your course.

Additionally, there are additional visa options available to French citizens for work, family, or partner migration. All of these visas can be solicited online. The eVisitor visa (also known as subclass 651) is the most popular option.

This visa allows you to stay in Australia for short-term visits (up to 90 days per entry). It is a multiple entry visa, and is valid for a total of 12 months from approval.

Note that it is not possible to undertake paid work on this visa for Australia. Only volunteer unpaid work is permitted on an eVisitor. You need the appropriate work permit to gain paid employment as a French in Australia.

Australia eVisitor visa requirements for French citizens

Documents to Enter Australia from France

Before you can enter Australia from France, you need to present several documents:

  1. Proof of a valid visa
  2. The same passport you used to apply the visa
  3. A completed and signed Incoming Passenger Card, which will be provided to you on your flight to Australia. This card includes information about your health, customs, and quarantine declarations.

Ensure you have all these documents ready when you arrive in Australia to ensure a smooth entry process.

How to Apply for an Australian Visa from France

Applying for an Australian visa from France is a simple process that can be completed online for most visa types. Follow these steps to apply:

  1. Determine the appropriate visa type for your trip.
  2. Complete the online application form and upload any required supporting documents.
  3. Pay the visa application fee using a credit card.
  4. Submit your application and wait for the decision. The processing times may vary depending on the visa type and other factors.

For some visa types, you may be required to provide additional documents, such as health examinations or police certificates. Ensure you follow the instructions provided during the application process to avoid delays or complications.

eVisitor visa application in French

Travellers from France who do not speak English should note that the eVisitor online application is available in a variety of languages, including French. Simply use the button below to access the online application in French.

eVisitor application in French

Travel Advice for French Citizens Visiting Australia

French citizens are advised to exercise normal safety precautions while visiting Australia. Some general travel advice includes:

  1. Stay informed about local news and weather conditions.
  2. Always carry a copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance documents.
  3. Observe local laws and customs to avoid any misunderstandings or legal issues.
  4. Exercise caution in remote or isolated areas, especially during bushfire season.
  5. Be aware of local wildlife and practice responsible behavior

French Diplomatic Offices in Australia

French citizens visiting Australia can access consular services through the French diplomatic offices in the country.

The Embassy of France in Australia is the primary diplomatic representation of France in the country. It provides a range of services, including issuing passports, identity cards, visa extensions, civil registry, and assistance in emergencies.

It’s located at:

6 Perth Avenue

Yarralumla

ACT 2600

Canberra

You can contact the embassy by phone at +61 (0)2 6216 0100 or by email at info.canberra-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr.

In addition to the embassy, there are French Consulate Generals in Sydney and Melbourne.

The Sydney consulate is located at:

Level 26

31 Market St

NSW 2000

Sydney

It can be reached by phone at +61 (0)2 9268 2400 or by email at info@consulfrance-sydney.org.

The Melbourne consulate is located at:

553 St Kilda Road

VIC 3004

Melbourne

It can be contacted by phone at +61 (0)3 9690 6075 or by email at consulat.melbourne@diplomatie.gouv.fr.

These consulates offer similar services to the embassy, assisting French citizens with various administrative and emergency matters.