ETA Australia 2026 – Latest Updates and Changes
The Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) remains available in 2026 with the same core structure: AUD 20 application fee, 12-month validity, and up to 3 months stay per visit. While Australia enacted significant migration reforms on 1 July 2026 – including a visa hopping ban, higher skilled visa thresholds (TSMIT), and new temporary arrival restrictions – these changes do not affect the ETA. The Department of Home Affairs has made incremental improvements to the AustralianETA app and ImmiAccount portal, but the fundamental eligibility, fee, and processing rules remain unchanged. For general ETA information, see our ETA Australia guide.
What Changed for ETA Australia in 2026
The ETA system has remained remarkably stable through 2026. While Australia’s broader migration system underwent significant reform on 1 July 2026, the ETA (Subclass 601) was not part of these changes. Here is the current status:
Current ETA Status (2026)
The ETA remains fully operational as a digital visa option for eligible passport holders. Key points:
- Application method: Online through ImmiAccount or the AustralianETA app
- Fee: AUD 20 (unchanged from previous years)
- Validity: 12 months or until passport expiry (whichever comes first)
- Stay duration: Up to 3 months per visit
- Entries: Multiple entries allowed during validity period
- Subclass: 601
What Stayed the Same
The following core elements of the ETA have not changed in 2026:
- The eligible country list has not been expanded or reduced
- The AUD 20 fee has remained stable
- The 12-month validity period is unchanged
- The 3-month stay per visit limit remains in place
- The core application process (ImmiAccount + app) is the same
- Character and health requirements are unchanged
Minor Updates and Improvements
While no major policy changes have been announced for the ETA in 2026, the Department of Home Affairs continues to make incremental improvements:
- App enhancements: The AustralianETA app has received updates for improved usability and faster processing
- System stability: Backend improvements for more reliable application processing
- Security updates: Enhanced verification measures for application security
- User interface: Minor improvements to the ImmiAccount portal
Current ETA Requirements for 2026
If you are applying for an ETA in 2026, here are the current requirements:
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an ETA in 2026, you must:
- Hold a passport from an eligible country
- Have a valid email address
- Have a credit or debit card for the AUD 20 payment
- Not have any criminal convictions that would prevent entry
- Not have tuberculosis
- Be outside Australia at the time of application
How to Apply
You can apply for an ETA through two methods:
- AustralianETA app (recommended) – Download from the App Store or Google Play. The app allows you to scan your passport and complete the application in minutes.
- ImmiAccount – Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (must not expire within your intended stay period)
- Email address for notifications
- Credit or debit card for the AUD 20 fee
ETA Fees and Processing in 2026
The cost and processing details for the ETA remain unchanged in 2026:
Fee Structure
- Application fee: AUD 20 (approximately USD 13, GBP 10, EUR 12)
- No additional processing fees
- No agent or third-party fees if you apply directly through official channels
Processing Times
- Most applications: Processed instantly (within minutes)
- Some applications: May take up to several business days for additional processing
- Recommendation: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to allow for any delays
Payment Methods
- Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Debit card
- PayPal (through ImmiAccount)
Eligible Countries for ETA in 2026
The list of countries eligible for the ETA has not changed in 2026. Citizens of the following countries can apply:
North America
- Canada
- United States
Europe
- Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (SAR), Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom
Asia-Pacific
- Brunei, Hong Kong (SAR), Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan
For the most current list, check the Department of Home Affairs website.
July 2026 Visa Changes and How They Affect ETA
Australia enacted significant migration reforms on 1 July 2026. While these changes are important to understand, they do not affect the ETA (Subclass 601). Here is what changed in the broader migration system:
Broader July 2026 Changes (NOT Affecting ETA)
- Visa hopping ban: New restrictions on onshore visa switching to prevent sequential visa applications
- TSMIT increase: The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold increased from AUD 73,150
- Visa fee increases: Most visa categories saw fee increases from 1 July 2026
- Working Holiday Maker updates: Changes to WHM program conditions
- Temporary arrival restrictions: New law allowing temporary restrictions on certain visa holder arrivals
Why ETA Was Not Affected
The ETA is a visitor visa designed for short-term tourism and business visits. The July 2026 reforms targeted:
- Skilled worker visas (Subclass 482, 186, 494)
- Student visas and visa switching pathways
- Employer-sponsored migration
- Working Holiday Maker program
The ETA remains the simplest and most straightforward pathway for eligible passport holders to visit Australia for up to 3 months.
FAQ – ETA Australia 2026
Has the Australian ETA changed in 2026?
No. The ETA (Subclass 601) fee, validity, stay duration, and eligibility requirements remain unchanged in 2026. While Australia enacted broader migration reforms on 1 July 2026, these do not affect the ETA.
What is the current ETA fee for Australia in 2026?
The ETA application fee is AUD 20 (approximately USD 13). This has not changed in 2026. Apply directly through the AustralianETA app or ImmiAccount to avoid third-party surcharges.
Are there new ETA requirements for 2026?
No new requirements have been introduced for the ETA in 2026. You still need a valid passport from an eligible country, an email address, and a payment card for the AUD 20 fee.
Is the AustralianETA app still used in 2026?
Yes. The AustralianETA app remains the recommended method for applying for an ETA in 2026. The app has received incremental updates for improved usability and faster processing.
Do July 2026 visa changes affect my ETA?
No. The July 2026 migration reforms (visa hopping ban, TSMIT increase, fee increases) affect skilled worker visas, student visas, and employer-sponsored visas. The ETA for short-term visitors is not affected.
How long does ETA processing take in 2026?
Most ETA applications are processed instantly within minutes. Some applications may require additional processing, which can take several business days. It is recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date.
Can I still get a multiple-entry ETA in 2026?
Yes. The ETA allows multiple entries to Australia during its 12-month validity period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months. This has not changed in 2026.
What is the difference between ETA and other Australian visas in 2026?
The ETA (Subclass 601) is a visitor visa for short-term tourism and business visits. Other visa types (student, skilled worker, working holiday) have different requirements and were affected by July 2026 reforms. The ETA remains the simplest option for eligible passport holders.
