By Jack S. Waverly
Once you've made your decision to visit Australia and decided when to go and how long to stay, you need to make sure your passport is valid. Then you need to apply for a visa.
There are numerous visa choices, and the circumstances of your visit determine which one you must apply for. The numerous regulations are set up to ensure that travel to Australia is well thought out and your stay, if longer than three months, is financially feasible.
ETA (Electronic Travel Authority)
US citizens planning a short stay in Australia for pleasure or business should apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority). The ETA allows for a stay of three months at a time and reentry for another three months during the life of the document. An ETA is valid for up to a year from when it is granted or the life of the passport, whichever is less.
The ETA is linked to the number on your passport; this must be the same passport used for travel to Australia. If your passport is lost or stolen after you have received an ETA, you must apply for another travel document.
The ETA application form is online or ask your travel agent.
Tourist Visa
If you plan to stay in Australia longer than allowed with an ETA, you need a tourist visa.
You will need a signed US passport which is valid for longer than three months when entering Australia. You will need to provide the following: a passport photograph, a copy of your itinerary, proof of medical insurance, proof of permanent US residence. You will also need proof that you have the finances to support yourself while in Australia; a letter from your employer confirming your absence and your vacation dates; and a written outline of what your plans are while in Australia. You need Form 48 completed, which is the application to visit Australia. You will also need to have a copy of your birth certificate with your parents names on it. You also need to complete the credit card authorization form which proves you are able to pay for any purchases made via credit card while in Australia. An invitation from close family in Australia is required if visiting family.
Business Visa
If you are visiting Australia for a business conference or fact-finding tour, you are eligible for a business ETA. The same restrictions apply as with a tourist ETA. You can stay in Australia for no longer than three months at a time and you may not work while you are in the country.
If you plan a longer stay, you will need a business visa. To apply you will need a valid and signed US passport with more than three months time still available on it. You will need to file a completed Form 456 which shows your reason for being in Australia. You need two passport photographs and a letter of responsibility which is typewritten on company letterhead; this letter must state the purpose of visiting Australia and what you will be doing in Australia. You must provide a guarantee of financial support.
About the Author:
Jack S. Waverly is a New York-based freelance writer who writes articles relating to business, personal finance, gardening, sustainable living and business management. Waverly is published on Pluck, Happy News and many other websites.
