Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Visas
»
All visitors to Australia need a visa − only New Zealand nationals are exempt, and even
they sheepishly receive a 'special category' visa on arrival.
»
There are several different visas available, depending on your nationality and what kind
of visit you're contemplating.
»
See the website of the
Department of Immigration & Citizenship
( 13 18 81;
www.immi.gov.au
) for info and application forms (also available from Australian diplomatic
missions overseas and travel agents), plus details on visa extensions, Working Holiday
Visas (417) and Work & Holiday Visas (462).
eVisitor
Many European passport holders will find themselves eligible for a free eVisitor visa, al-
lowing stays in Australia for up to three months within a 12-month period. eVisitor visas
must be applied for online (
www.immi.gov.au/e_visa/evisitor.htm
). They are electronically
stored and linked to individual passport numbers, so no stamp in your passport is re-
quired. It's advisable to apply at least 14 days prior to the proposed date of travel to Aus-
tralia.
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
Passport holders from eight countries which aren't part of the eVisitor scheme − Brunei,
Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea and the USA − can apply
for either a visitor or business ETA. ETAs are valid for 12 months, with stays of up to three
months on each visit. You can apply for the ETA online (
www.eta.immi.gov.au
), which at-
tracts a nonrefundable service charge of $20.
Tourist Visas (676)
If you're from a country not covered by the eVisitor and ETA, or you want to stay longer
than three months, you'll need to apply for a Tourist Visa. Standard Tourist Visas
(AUD$115) allow one (in some cases multiple) entry, for a stay of up to 12 months, and
are valid for use within 12 months of issue. Online, see
www.immi.gov.au/e_visa/
e676.htm
.
Volunteering
Lonely Planet's
Volunteer: A Traveller's Guide to Making a Difference Around the World
provides useful information about volunteering.
