Australia Visa Guide for UK BRP / eVisa Holders

Visitor visa subclass 600, ETA eligibility, online application, and health requirements

All visitors need a visa or ETA

Australia requires all visitors to hold a valid visa or ETA before arrival. Check if your nationality qualifies for the ETA app at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

Overview

Australia is one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, offering the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House, the vast Outback, world-class beaches, and unique wildlife. For UK BRP holders, all visitors need either an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or a Visitor visa (subclass 600) before arriving — there is no visa on arrival for any nationality.

The route depends on your passport nationality. Holders of passports from ETA-eligible countries (including UK, most EU, US, Canada, Japan, and several others) can use the ETA app for a quick AUD 20 application. All other nationalities must apply for the subclass 600 Visitor visa through the online ImmiAccount system.

Australia Visa at a Glance

DetailInformation
ETA costAUD 20 (~£10)
Visitor visa (600) costAUD 190-1,100 depending on stream
ETA validity12 months, multiple entry
Visitor visa validityUp to 12 months
Maximum stay3 months (ETA) / 3-12 months (600)
ETA processingMinutes to 1 day
Visitor visa processing1-4 weeks typical
Apply atimmi.homeaffairs.gov.au or ETA app

ETA — Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601)

The Australian ETA is applied for through the official Australian ETA app (available on iOS and Android). The process takes about 10 minutes: scan your passport using your phone’s NFC reader, answer a few questions, take a selfie, and pay AUD 20. Most applications are approved within minutes. The ETA allows visits of up to 3 months, is valid for 12 months, and permits multiple entries. It is electronically linked to your passport.

Visitor Visa — Subclass 600

Application Process

Create an ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and complete the online application. You will need to provide personal details, travel history, employment information, financial evidence, and the purpose of your visit. Upload your passport scan, recent photo, bank statements (last 3 months), employment letter, and travel itinerary. For the Tourist stream, the fee is AUD 190.

Health Requirements

Most short-stay tourist applicants do not require a medical examination. However, you may be asked to undergo a health check if you plan to stay more than 3 months, have a pre-existing condition, or are from a country with higher health risks. If required, the examination must be conducted by a Bupa Medical Visa Services panel physician. Chest X-rays may also be required for certain nationalities.

Processing & Decision

Most Tourist stream applications are processed within 1-4 weeks. Complex cases or those requiring additional checks can take longer. You will receive notification through your ImmiAccount. The visa is granted electronically and linked to your passport — no sticker or stamp is placed in your passport.

Travel Tips

  • Flights — London to Sydney is approximately 22-24 hours with one stop. Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific are popular choices.
  • Currency — Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards accepted everywhere. Contactless payment is standard.
  • Health — Travel insurance is essential. Australian medical care for visitors is expensive. No reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK for most BRP holders.
  • Customs — Australia has extremely strict biosecurity. Declare all food, plant material, and animal products. Heavy fines for non-declaration.
  • Best time — October to April (Australian summer). Northern Australia is best May to October (dry season). Varies by region.
  • Budget — Moderately expensive. Hotels from AUD 150-300/night. Meals from AUD 20-40.

For more visa guides, return to our Visa Guides hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: March 2026. Always verify entry requirements with the relevant embassy or official government website before booking travel.