Planning a holiday to Australia from the UK? If you hold an eligible British passport, you may be able to apply for an Australian eVisitor visa (subclass 651) online before travelling. This visa is designed for eligible visitors travelling to Australia for tourism or certain business visitor activities.
The application process is online, and the eVisitor visa itself is free when applying through the official Australian Government process. However, not everyone living in the UK is eligible. Your passport nationality and the conditions of your visit matter, so it is important to check the requirements before applying.
This guide explains how to apply for an eVisitor visa Australia from the UK in 2026, who may qualify, which documents to prepare, how long the visa allows you to stay, and what to check before travelling.
What is an Australian eVisitor visa (subclass 651)?
The Australian eVisitor visa, also known as subclass 651, is an electronic visa for eligible passport holders visiting Australia for tourism or permitted business visitor activities.
It is linked electronically to your passport, so you do not generally need a physical visa label in your passport. You must still receive confirmation that your visa has been granted before travelling.
The eVisitor visa generally allows multiple visits to Australia during its 12-month validity period, with each visit lasting up to three months. Your individual visa grant notice and applicable visa conditions should always be checked before travel.
Common reasons for visiting Australia with an eVisitor visa include:
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Going on holiday or sightseeing.
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Visiting family or friends.
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Taking a cruise or exploring Australian cities.
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Attending certain business meetings or conferences.
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Participating in other activities permitted under the business visitor conditions.
An eVisitor visa does not give you general permission to work in Australia. If you intend to work, study for an extended period, migrate, or stay longer than the visitor conditions allow, you should investigate the appropriate visa pathway instead.
Who can apply for an eVisitor visa from the UK?
Eligibility depends mainly on the passport you hold, not simply on where you live.
A British citizen holding an eligible British Citizen passport may be able to apply for an eVisitor visa, subject to the Australian Government’s current eligibility and visa requirements. A person who lives in the UK but holds a passport from a country that is not eligible for subclass 651 cannot qualify solely because of UK residence.
Before starting your application, check the following:
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Passport eligibility: Confirm that your passport nationality and passport type are accepted for subclass 651.
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Purpose of travel: Your visit must fall within the activities allowed by the visa.
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Health and character requirements: You may need to meet applicable Australian health and character requirements.
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Genuine visitor intentions: You should be able to demonstrate that your plans are consistent with a temporary visit.
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Visa conditions: You must agree to follow the conditions attached to your visa.
If you do not qualify for an eVisitor visa, another visa option may be available. For example, some eligible travellers use the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601), while others may need to consider the Visitor visa (subclass 600). These visas have different eligibility rules, application procedures and charges.
Check the official Australian Government page before applying: eVisitor visa (subclass 651).
Documents required for an Australia eVisitor visa application
The eVisitor application is completed online. Before you begin, prepare your personal and travel information so you can enter the details accurately.
Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide or refer to the following information:
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A valid passport from an eligible country.
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Your full name, date of birth and passport details.
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Your current contact details, including a valid email address.
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Information about your intended visit to Australia.
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Details of your travel plans, if requested.
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Information showing that you can support yourself during your visit, if required.
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Relevant information about your health and character.
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Supporting documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
Not every applicant will be asked to upload the same documents. Follow the instructions displayed in your application and provide any additional evidence requested by the Australian Government.
If any supporting documents are not in English, arrange suitable English translations. Ensure that your personal information is consistent across your passport, application and supporting documents.
Step-by-step: How to apply for an eVisitor visa Australia from the UK
Step 1: Check your passport eligibility
Confirm that your passport is accepted for the eVisitor subclass 651. British citizenship and an eligible British Citizen passport are important distinctions. Living in the UK alone does not establish eligibility.
Step 2: Confirm your travel purpose
Make sure your plans fit the permitted tourism, family visit or business visitor activities. If you intend to take up employment, you will need to investigate a visa that permits the work you plan to do.
Step 3: Apply through the official Australian Government website
Visit the official eVisitor subclass 651 page and follow its online application instructions. Avoid unofficial websites that make the process look like a government service.
Step 4: Complete the application carefully
Enter your name exactly as it appears in your passport. Check your passport number, date of birth and email address before submitting. Mistakes can cause delays or create problems when travelling.
Step 5: Submit and monitor your application
Submit the application and check your email and application status for updates. If you do not receive an acknowledgement within 12 hours, the official guidance advises checking your application status through ImmiAccount.
Step 6: Wait for the visa decision before travelling
Do not assume that submitting the form means your visa has been approved. Wait for written confirmation of the grant, check the visa conditions and make sure the passport you will use for travel matches your visa records.
The steps above follow the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ official guidance.
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How much does an eVisitor visa for Australia cost?
The Australian eVisitor visa (subclass 651) is free when you apply through the official Australian Government process. You should not have to pay a government visa application charge for this visa.
However, be aware of the difference between a government visa charge and a private service fee. A third-party website or visa assistance provider may charge for its own services. Such a charge is not the government fee for the eVisitor visa.
If someone is asking you to pay a large amount for a supposedly compulsory eVisitor visa fee, verify the information directly through the Department of Home Affairs before proceeding.
Other Australian visitor visas may have different charges. For example, the ETA (subclass 601) has an AUD 20 service charge for using the Australian ETA app, while the Visitor visa (subclass 600) has a separate application charge. These are different visa pathways, so do not confuse their fees with the free eVisitor subclass 651.
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How long does an Australian eVisitor visa take to process?
Processing times vary according to the application and the circumstances of the applicant. The Australian Government’s processing-time guide provides an indication based on recently decided applications, but it is not a guarantee of how quickly an individual application will be decided.
Some applications may be processed quickly, while others may take longer if further checks or information are required.
To help avoid preventable delays:
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Check that your passport is eligible before applying.
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Enter your personal details accurately.
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Use an email address you can access.
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Answer every question honestly.
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Supply any additional information requested by the department.
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Check your application status and email regularly.
Apply in good time before your planned departure. Do not book non-refundable travel on the assumption that your visa will be granted by a particular date.
How long can you stay in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
The eVisitor visa is generally valid for 12 months from the date it is granted. It allows multiple entries, with a stay of up to three months after each entry, subject to the visa conditions.
For example, if your eVisitor visa is valid and you visit Australia for a holiday, you may be allowed to stay for up to three months on that visit. You may be able to leave and return during the validity period, but each entry remains subject to Australian immigration requirements.
The 12-month validity period does not mean you can remain in Australia continuously for 12 months. It is also not a guarantee that every future entry will be permitted.
If you want to stay longer than three months at a time, explore another suitable visa. The eVisitor visa itself cannot simply be extended.
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Can you work in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
No. The eVisitor visa is not a general work visa, and it does not allow you to undertake paid work for an Australian employer.
Permitted business visitor activities can include attending meetings, negotiating or reviewing business contracts, making general business enquiries, or participating in certain conferences and trade events where the conditions are met. These activities are different from taking up employment or providing services to an Australian business.
If your main purpose is to work in Australia, research a visa that specifically permits your intended employment. Do not rely on an eVisitor visa as a route to working or settling in Australia.
Can you apply for an eVisitor visa for family members?
Each family member needs their own application. You cannot include your spouse or children as additional applicants on a single eVisitor application.
Check each traveller’s passport eligibility separately. This is particularly important for families whose members hold different nationalities or passport types.
For children, parents or guardians should make sure the information is accurate and follow any additional instructions that apply to the child’s application.
What if you are a UK resident but do not hold a British Citizen passport?
You may still be able to visit Australia, but your visa option will depend on the passport you hold and your circumstances.
For example, a UK resident holding a passport from a country that is not on the eVisitor eligibility list cannot qualify for subclass 651 simply because they live in Britain. Depending on the passport, an ETA or Visitor visa subclass 600 may be a more suitable option.
Do not choose a visa based only on the country you are departing from. Confirm eligibility using the passport you intend to travel with.
eVisitor visa vs ETA vs Visitor visa subclass 600
| Feature | eVisitor (651) | ETA (601) | Visitor visa (600) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Tourism, family visits and permitted business visitor activities | Tourism, family visits and permitted business visitor activities | Tourism, family visits and permitted business visitor activities, depending on stream |
| Eligibility | Specific eligible passports | Specific eligible passports | Depends on the relevant stream and applicant |
| Government cost | Free | AUD 20 app service charge | Application charge applies |
| Application route | Online through the official process | Australian ETA app for ETA-eligible passport holders | Online application process |
| Stay period | Up to 3 months per entry | Up to 3 months per entry | Depends on the visa granted |
| Work rights | No general work rights | No general work rights | Subject to visa conditions; not a general work visa |
Always check the current official visa page before deciding which option to use.
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Common mistakes to avoid when applying
Even though the eVisitor process is online, it is important to provide accurate information and follow the visa rules.
1. Choosing the wrong visa type: Do not assume every UK resident qualifies for an eVisitor visa. Check the passport eligibility list first.
2. Entering incorrect passport details: A spelling mistake, incorrect date of birth or wrong passport number can cause difficulties.
3. Paying an unofficial website unnecessarily: The eVisitor visa is free through the official Australian Government process. Verify any service fee before paying.
4. Travelling before the visa is granted: An application receipt is not the same as a visa grant notice.
5. Assuming the visa permits employment: Business visitor activities are limited. Paid employment and providing services to an Australian organisation are not generally permitted.
6. Overstaying the permitted period: Check your visa grant details and leave Australia within the authorised stay period unless you hold another visa that permits you to remain.
7. Treating repeat visits as permission to live in Australia: The visa is intended for temporary visits. Frequent or lengthy stays can lead to questions about whether you genuinely intend to visit temporarily.
Final checklist before travelling to Australia
Before you leave the UK, make sure you have completed the following:
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Confirmed that your passport is eligible for the visa granted.
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Received written confirmation of the visa grant.
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Checked the visa validity dates and conditions.
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Confirmed your passport details and travel documents.
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Prepared evidence of your travel plans and funds if needed.
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Arranged appropriate travel and health insurance.
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Checked airline and entry requirements before departure.
The eVisitor visa can be a convenient option for eligible travellers, but approval and entry requirements still matter. Use the official Australian Government information as your main source and make sure the visa matches your travel purpose.
For the latest requirements, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs eVisitor visa page.
Frequently asked questions
What is an eVisitor visa for Australia?
The eVisitor visa (subclass 651) is a free electronic visa for eligible passport holders visiting Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or permitted business visitor activities.
How can I apply for an eVisitor visa Australia from the UK?
Check that your passport is eligible, visit the official Australian Government eVisitor page, complete the online application, provide accurate information and wait for written confirmation of the visa decision.
Is the Australia eVisitor visa free for UK citizens?
Yes, the eVisitor subclass 651 is free through the official Australian Government application process for eligible passport holders, including qualifying British Citizen passport holders.
Who is eligible for an Australian eVisitor visa?
Eligibility depends on holding citizenship and a valid passport from a country listed by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, as well as meeting the visa requirements.
Can all UK residents apply for an eVisitor visa for Australia?
No. Living in the UK is not enough to qualify. Applicants must hold an eligible passport and meet the relevant Australian visa requirements.
How long is an Australian eVisitor visa valid for?
The eVisitor visa is generally valid for 12 months from the date it is granted and allows multiple visits, subject to its conditions.
How long can I stay in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
Eligible travellers can generally stay for up to three months after each entry during the visa's validity period, subject to the conditions of their visa.
How long does an eVisitor visa Australia application take?
Processing times vary. Some applications may be decided quickly, but others can take longer if further information or checks are required.
What documents are required for an Australia eVisitor visa application?
You need a valid passport from an eligible country and accurate personal and travel information. Additional documents may be requested depending on your circumstances.
Can I work in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
No. The eVisitor visa does not allow general paid employment or providing services to an Australian business. Permitted business visitor activities are limited.
Can I visit family in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
Yes, visiting family or friends is a permitted purpose for eligible eVisitor visa holders, provided they comply with the visa conditions.
Can I include my spouse and children in one eVisitor application?
No. Each family member, including children, must make a separate eVisitor visa application and meet the eligibility requirements.
Can I extend my Australian eVisitor visa?
The eVisitor visa itself cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must investigate another suitable visa and meet its requirements.
Can I apply for an eVisitor visa while I am in Australia?
No. You must be outside Australia when applying for an eVisitor visa and when the application is decided.
What happens if my eVisitor visa application is refused?
The Department of Home Affairs will notify you of the decision and explain the reasons and whether review rights are available. Check the decision notice for your options.
What is the difference between an eVisitor visa and an ETA for Australia?
The eVisitor is subclass 651 and is free through the official process, while the ETA is subclass 601 and has a service charge for applications through the Australian ETA app. Eligibility and application procedures differ.
Can I study in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
In some circumstances, eVisitor holders can study or train for up to three months in total. If study is your main purpose, check whether a student visa is more appropriate.
Do I need to print my Australian eVisitor visa?
The visa is electronically linked to your passport, and a physical visa label is not issued. Keep a copy of your written visa grant notice and check your visa details before travelling.
Can I apply for an Australian eVisitor visa using a British National Overseas passport?
A British National Overseas passport is not eligible for the eVisitor subclass 651. Check the Australian Government's visa options to identify an alternative.
Where can I check the official Australia eVisitor visa requirements?
Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651 for the current eligibility rules, application instructions and conditions.
