ETA Subclass 601 – What Is It & How Does It Work?
The ETA Subclass 601 is the official visa classification for Australia’s Electronic Travel Authority. It is an electronic visa that allows citizens of eligible countries to visit Australia for tourism or business for up to 3 months per visit. This guide explains what Subclass 601 is, who is eligible, and how it works.
For a complete overview of the Australian ETA, see our ETA Australia guide.
What Is Subclass 601?
Subclass 601 is the visa code assigned to the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) under Australian immigration law. The ETA is:
- An electronically stored visa linked to your passport number
- A multiple-entry visa valid for 12 months
- A short-stay visa allowing up to 3 months per visit
- A paperless visa with no label or stamp in your passport
The Subclass 601 replaced the older physical visa label system. Today, all ETA information is stored electronically and can be verified by airlines and immigration officers through their systems.
Who Is Eligible for Subclass 601?
Passport holders from 30+ eligible countries can apply for Subclass 601. The eligible countries include:
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| North America | United States, Canada |
| Europe | United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and more |
| Asia | Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Hong Kong SAR, Brunei |
| Oceania | New Zealand (separate arrangements) |
Eligibility requirements:
- Hold a valid passport from an eligible country
- Be outside Australia when applying
- Meet health requirements
- Meet character requirements
- Have no outstanding debts to the Australian government
Subclass 601 Conditions
Stay Duration
Each visit on a Subclass 601 allows a stay of up to 3 months (90 days). You must leave Australia before this period expires.
Validity Period
The visa is valid for 12 months from the date of grant, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Multiple Entries
You can enter and leave Australia as many times as you want within the validity period. Each entry allows a new stay of up to 3 months.
Work Restrictions
No paid work is permitted on a Subclass 601. This includes:
- Employment (full-time, part-time, or casual)
- Freelance or contract work
- Paid volunteering
Business visitor activities ARE allowed:
- Attending meetings and conferences
- Negotiating contracts
- Conducting site visits
- Attending trade shows
For details on requirements, see our requirements page.
How to Apply for Subclass 601
The fastest way to apply is through the AustralianETA app:
- Download the app from App Store or Google Play
- Create an account
- Scan your passport MRZ
- Answer eligibility questions
- Pay the AUD 20 fee
- Wait for approval (usually minutes)
You can also apply through a registered travel agent or airline.
Subclass 601 Cost
The application fee for Subclass 601 is AUD 20 (approximately USD 13-15).
- Non-refundable, regardless of outcome
- No additional processing fees
- Paid by credit or debit card in the app
Subclass 601 vs Other Visa Types
| Feature | Subclass 601 (ETA) | Subclass 600 (Visitor) | Subclass 651 (eVisitor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | AUD 20 | AUD 190+ | Free |
| Processing | Minutes | 20-30 days | Minutes |
| Stay | 3 months | 3-12 months | 3 months |
| Eligible countries | 30+ | All | EU select |
| Work | No | No | No |
For a detailed comparison, see our Subclass 601 vs 600 guide.
Common Questions About Subclass 601
Is Subclass 601 stamped in my passport?
No. The Subclass 601 is stored electronically and linked to your passport number. There is no physical label or stamp.
How do I check my Subclass 601 status?
You can check your visa status through the VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) system or through the AustralianETA app.
Can Subclass 601 be refused?
Yes. Common reasons for refusal include:
- Character concerns (criminal history)
- Previous immigration violations
- Outstanding debts to the Australian government
- False or misleading information in the application
What happens if my passport expires?
Your Subclass 601 expires when your passport expires. You must apply for a new ETA with your new passport.
ETA Subclass 601 – FAQ
What is Subclass 601?
Subclass 601 is the official visa classification for the Australian ETA (Electronic Travel Authority).
Is Subclass 601 a real visa?
Yes. It is a legally valid visa that grants you permission to enter Australia.
How much does Subclass 601 cost?
AUD 20 per application. Non-refundable.
How long can I stay on Subclass 601?
Up to 3 months per visit, with 12-month validity and multiple entries.
Can I work on Subclass 601?
No. Only business visitor activities are permitted.
What countries qualify for Subclass 601?
30+ countries including the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and several European nations.
Can I extend Subclass 601?
No. You must leave Australia and re-enter if you want to stay longer (up to another 3 months per entry).
How do I apply for Subclass 601?
Through the AustralianETA app or a registered travel agent.
