An ETA is an electronically issued and verified visa, not visible in a passport. ETAs are issued to passengers traveling for tourist or business purposes. Tourist ETAs are valid for three months. ETAs are obtainable online at: www.eta.immi.gov.au or through most travel agents.
Americans: US nationals must have a valid passport for intended period of stay. An
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required.
UK nationals: UK nationals must have a passport valid for intended period of stay. An Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required for British passport holders endorsed
British Citizen or British National (Overseas) if residing in
Hong Kong. Other British passport holders are not eligible for an ETA and require a visa.
Canadians: Canadian nationals require a passport valid for intended period of stay. An Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required.
South Africans: South African nationals must have a passport valid for the duration of the stay. A visa is required.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals must have a passport valid for the intended period of stay. An Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required.
New Zealanders: New Zealanders require a valid passport on entry to
Australia. Although a visa is not a requirement, New Zealanders have to apply for a Special Category Visa on arrival by completing a passenger card.
Health
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by travelers over one year of age arriving within six days of having stayed overnight or longer in an infected country. No other special immunizations or medications are required for most trips to Australia, however insect repellents are strongly advised because of the risk of
Murray Valley encephalitis,
Ross River virus infections, dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses. Another health risk is sunburn, and visitors are advised to take precautions. Medical services are excellent, but can be expensive so travelers should ensure that they have adequate insurance. Australia has a reciprocal health agreement with the
United Kingdom providing for free hospital emergency medical treatment; proof of UK residence is required.
Safety
The crime rate in Australia is low, however travelers should be aware that tourists could be targeted by petty criminals. Be vigilant about personal possessions and travel documents, particularly in popular tourist destinations such as along the
Gold Coast. There has been an increase in incidents of spiked drinks and women in particular should be cautious in nightspots; many victims were also sexually assaulted. Tropical cyclones normally occur between November and April in some parts of Australia, usually in
Western Australia,
Queensland and
Northern Territory. There is a serious risk of bush fires in summer, especially in Victoria,
Tasmania,
New South Wales and ACT. During the summer months, usually between October and May, the shallow coastal waters of northern Australia and Queensland become infested with marine stingers, commonly known as box jellyfish, whose sting is highly dangerous and can be deadly. Visitors should pay attention to signs on beaches and follow the instructions of local lifeguards.
