ETA Australia for Canadian Citizens – Guide
Canadian passport holders need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to visit Australia. The Subclass 601 electronic visa costs AUD 20, is applied for through the AustralianETA app, and is usually approved within minutes. This guide covers everything Canadian travelers need to know.
For a complete overview, see our ETA Australia guide.
Do Canadian Citizens Need an ETA for Australia?
Yes, all Canadian passport holders must have an approved ETA or visa before entering Australia. The ETA is the recommended option for short stays of up to 3 months.
Key facts for Canadians:
- The ETA is required for tourism, business, and transit
- Apply before your flight – no visa on arrival
- Airlines check visa status at check-in
- Without an approved ETA, boarding will be denied
How to Apply for an Australian ETA from Canada
The application takes about 5-10 minutes:
- Download the AustralianETA app (iOS or Android)
- Create an account or sign in
- Scan your Canadian passport MRZ or enter details manually
- Answer eligibility questions
- Pay AUD 20 by credit or debit card
- Wait for approval – usually within minutes
Required documents:
- Valid Canadian passport
- Email address
- Payment card
- Smartphone with the app
For detailed requirements, see our requirements page.
Cost for Canadian Citizens
The ETA costs AUD 20 (approximately CAD 18-20).
- Non-refundable fee
- No additional processing fees
- Same cost for all nationalities
- Paid by card in the app
You can also compare with how US citizens apply in our US citizens guide.
Processing Time for Canadians
Most Canadian citizens receive approval within minutes.
| Scenario | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Standard approval | Minutes to 1 hour |
| Additional checks | 24-48 hours |
| Manual review | Up to several weeks |
Apply at least one week before departure to account for possible delays.
Validity and Conditions
- Validity: 12 months or until passport expires
- Entries: Multiple entries allowed
- Stay per visit: Up to 3 months
- Electronic: Linked to your passport number
Work Restrictions for Canadians
The ETA does not permit paid work in Australia. Business activities like meetings, conferences, and negotiations are allowed. For employment, you need a different visa category.
Tips for Canadian Applicants
- Apply at least one week before travel
- Use the passport MRZ scanner for accuracy
- Check your spam folder for the approval email
- Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity
- Include middle names as shown on passport
ETA Australia for Canadian Citizens – FAQ
Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Australia?
Canadians need an ETA, which is an electronic visa applied for via the AustralianETA app.
How much does the ETA cost for Canadians?
AUD 20 (approximately CAD 18-20). Non-refundable.
How long can Canadians stay in Australia?
Up to 3 months per visit. The ETA is valid for 12 months with multiple entries.
Can Canadian permanent residents get an ETA?
Only Canadian passport holders are eligible. Permanent residents who are not citizens may need a different visa based on their passport nationality.
Can I work in Australia on an ETA?
No. Only business visitor activities are permitted.
How far in advance should I apply?
At least one week before departure is recommended.
Is the ETA linked to my Canadian passport?
Yes. The ETA is stored electronically and linked to your passport number.
What if my application is denied?
You can reapply or apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).
