⚖️ Comparisons

Australia eVisa vs ETA: Which Do You Need? (2026)

Australia offers two electronic travel authorisations: the eVisitor (subclass 651) and the Electronic Travel Authority (eTA, subclass 601). Both allow multiple entries over 12 months with stays up to 90 days, but they are available to different nationalities and processed through different channels. Understanding which one applies to you is essential before you apply.
Australia eVisa
9.8
Free gov. fee
Apply for Australia eVisa
VS
New Zealand NZeTA
9.3
Gov. fee $17
Apply for New Zealand NZeTA

Behind this comparison

This comparison is based on official government data for both Australia eVisa and New Zealand NZeTA, supplemented by application experience data from our traveller feedback network. Processing times reflect medians from 8 data points collected over the past 6 months. Fees are based on published government rates as of April 2026. Where fees vary by nationality, we show the most common rate for English-speaking market applicants. Always check the current fee on the official government portal before applying.

Feature Comparison

Feature Australia eVisa New Zealand NZeTA
Subclass 651 (eVisitor) 601 (ETA)
Government fee Free AUD$20
Eligible nationalities 56 (mainly European) 8 (mainly Asian)
Processing time Hours Instant
Validity 12 months, multiple entry 12 months, multiple entry
Max stay per visit 90 days 90 days
Application method Online form App or travel agent

Our Verdict

Australia eVisa
Apply for the eVisitor if you hold a passport from one of the 56 eligible European countries. It is free, fast, and entirely online — the simplest route to Australia.
Apply for Australia eVisa
New Zealand NZeTA
Apply for the ETA (subclass 601) if you hold a passport from a non-eVisitor eligible country but are still on Australia's ETA eligibility list. The ETA has a small fee but the same generous conditions.
Apply for New Zealand NZeTA

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for both an eVisitor and an ETA?+
You can only hold one current Australian visa at a time. Apply for the visa type that matches your passport nationality. If you are eligible for the eVisitor, that is the standard online application. If not, check if you qualify for the ETA.
What if I am not eligible for either?+
If you hold a passport from a country not listed for the eVisitor or ETA, you will need to apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through the standard Australian visa application process, which typically takes longer and may require biometrics.

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