How Much Is an Australian Visa for US Citizens?

If you’re a US citizen planning to visit Australia, one of the first things you need to know is the cost of obtaining an Australian visa for US citizens. The price of an Australian visa for US citizens can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the specific circumstances of your visit. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with the most common Australian visas for US citizens, including the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), the eVisitor Visa, and the Visitor Visa.

Common Types of Australian Visas for US Citizens

Before diving into the costs, it’s important to understand the most common types of Australian visas for US citizens:

1. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601):

   • The ETA is a popular visa for short-term travelers, including tourists, business visitors, and those visiting family or friends.
   • This visa allows stays of up to 3 months within a 12-month period.
   • The ETA is available online, and the application process is simple and quick.

2. eVisitor Visa (subclass 651):

   • The eVisitor Visa is available to US citizens who plan to visit Australia for tourism or business purposes.
   • This visa also allows stays of up to 3 months within a 12-month period.
   • The eVisitor Visa is a cost-free option, but it is available only to citizens of certain countries, including the United States.

3. Visitor Visa (subclass 600):

   • The Visitor Visa is for US citizens who wish to stay in Australia for more than 3 months.
   • This visa allows for stays of up to 12 months and is suitable for tourists, business visitors, or family visits.
   • The application for a Visitor Visa can be made online or at an Australian consulate.

How Much Does an Australian Visa for US Citizens Cost?

Now that we know the types of Australian visas for US citizens, let’s look at the cost of each one:

1. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601):

   • The cost of the ETA for US citizens is typically around AUD $20 (Australian Dollars).
   • This price is for the application itself and does not include any service fees charged by external providers if you choose to use a third-party service to apply.
   • The ETA is one of the most affordable visa options for US citizens and is processed quickly—usually within minutes or hours.

2. eVisitor Visa (subclass 651):

   • The eVisitor Visa is free for US citizens.
   • It is a great option for those visiting Australia for tourism or short-term business visits and is available through an entirely online application process.
   • While the visa itself is free, you may incur additional costs if you use a third-party service to submit your application.

3. Visitor Visa (subclass 600):

   • The Visitor Visa is the most flexible visa option for US citizens, allowing stays of up to 12 months.
   • The cost for the Visitor Visa can vary depending on the length of your stay and the processing time. Generally, the fee ranges from AUD $145 to AUD $1,000.
   • For a standard application, you can expect to pay around AUD $145. However, for expedited processing or a longer stay, the cost could be higher.

Additional Fees to Consider

While the Australian visa fees for US citizens are straightforward, there are a few additional costs to be aware of:

1. Service Fees:

   • Some visa applications are processed through third-party providers, which may charge service fees. These fees vary but typically range from AUD $20 to AUD $50 or more, depending on the provider.
   • If you choose to use a service provider to assist with your application, make sure to check their fees before proceeding.

2. Expedited Processing Fees:

   • If you require your visa urgently, there may be additional fees for expedited processing. For example, the Visitor Visa and ETA may come with expedited service options at an additional cost.

3. Biometrics Fees:

   • For some visa applications, you may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints, photos, etc.). The Visitor Visa (subclass 600) may require biometrics in certain circumstances. The cost for biometrics can be around AUD $80.

4. Travel Agent Fees:

   • If you decide to work with a travel agent to arrange your Australian visa, they may charge an administrative fee for their services.

When to Apply for Your Australian Visa

The cost of an Australian visa for US citizens is just one aspect of your trip. It’s important to apply for your visa well in advance of your departure date to avoid any delays. Most visas, like the ETA and eVisitor Visa, are processed quickly (usually within a few days), but the Visitor Visa can take longer, especially if additional documentation or biometrics are required.

How to Pay for Your Australian Visa

The Australian visa for US citizens application fees are usually paid online. Acceptable payment methods include major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Be sure to use a secure payment platform when applying online to avoid potential fraud.

Conclusion

The cost of an Australian visa for US citizens depends on the type of visa you choose and the specifics of your trip. While some visas like the eVisitor Visa are free, others like the ETA and Visitor Visa may require payment. When applying for your visa, always check the current fees on the official Australian government website or through an authorized service provider.

Make sure to apply early, and review all fees carefully before proceeding. Whether you're visiting Australia for a short stay or a longer trip, understanding the costs involved in obtaining an Australian visa for US citizens will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

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