British passport to Australia
United Kingdom passport holders need to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) before traveling to Australia, which allows stays of up to 90 days.
The eVisa application is completed online before departure — processing typically takes a few business days.
While an application is required, the digital process is generally straightforward compared to a traditional embassy visa.
At a glance
Requirement
eVisa Required
Max stay
90 days
Currency
AUD
Passport validity
Valid for entire duration of stay
E-visa fee
AUD 20
ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) required. Apply online before travel.
Required documents
These documents are typically required when applying for your visa to Australia.
Valid passport
Must be valid for at least Valid for entire duration of stay. 2 blank pages recommended.
Australia ETA
Apply at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601. Fee: AUD 20. Processing: Minutes to 12 hours.
Return / onward ticket
Border officers often verify intent to leave within authorized stay.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel reservation, rental confirmation, or invitation letter from a local resident.
Sufficient funds proof
Bank statements, credit cards, or cash. Required minimums vary by country.
Cost breakdown
Total trip-related authorization and entry costs for British passport holders visiting Australia:
| Item | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| E-visa fee | AUD 20 |
| Travel insurance (1 month) | $45-90 |
| Passport renewal (if needed) | $130-160 |
Application timeline
Plan your application timeline carefully. Most consulates require advance scheduling.
Before travel
Apply for Australia ETA
Visit https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601. Complete the application form. Fee: AUD 20.
Minutes to 12 hours
Receive your e-visa
Sent by email. Print a copy and save digitally. Required at the boarding gate.
On arrival
Present at immigration
Show printed e-visa with passport. Border officer verifies in their system.
Entry information
Border authority
Australian Border Force
Suggested daily funds
AUD 5,000 minimum suggested
Popular entry airports
Sydney SYD, Melbourne MEL, Brisbane BNE, Perth PER
Official language
English
Official portal
immi.homeaffairs.gov.auCost of living in Australia
Here is an overview of typical monthly costs in Sydney, Australia, to help you budget for your stay.
Rent (1BR, center)
$1,950/mo
Groceries
$325/mo
Transport
$130/mo
Utilities
$163/mo
Source: Numbeo 2025 (approximate). Compare with other cities
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Work authorization
Australia offers 3 types of work authorization for foreign nationals, including Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417).
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) — 2-4 years depending on stream
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) — Permanent
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) — 1 year, extendable up to 3 years
Special cases
⚠ Some travelers need different documentation
- Green Card / PR holders with non-issuing-country passport: Visa rules follow your passport, not your residency. Re-check requirements based on your nationality.
- Dual nationals: If you hold a passport that has more favorable rules with Australia, use that one.
- Stays beyond the visa-free / tourist period: Long-term stays in Australia require a long-stay residence visa, applied for at the consulate before arrival.
- Remote workers / digital nomads: Tourist entries don't permit work, even remote. Check Australia's digital nomad or freelance visa options for compliant long-term stays.
- Children traveling with one parent: Notarized travel consent letter from the absent parent strongly recommended, especially for international travel under 18.
What to do upon arrival
Practical essentials to set up for your stay in Australia:
Multi-currency banking
Hold and spend AUD at the mid-market rate, no conversion fees.
Open Wise account →Affiliate link
Travel insurance
Nomad-friendly health insurance from SafetyWing. Covers 185+ countries from $45/month.
Get a quote →Affiliate link
Australia eSIM data
Skip airport SIM kiosks. Activate before takeoff: 1GB from $4.50, full local coverage.
Get Airalo eSIM →Affiliate link
VPN for Australia
Stay secure on public WiFi and access region-locked services. NordVPN works in 60+ countries with strict privacy.
Get NordVPN →Affiliate link
Local transport
Opal card for Sydney transport. Myki for Melbourne. Monthly: AUD 50-200.
Plan transport →Australia expat guide
Cost of living, neighborhoods, healthcare, and cultural tips.
Read full guide →Common questions
Can United Kingdom citizens extend their stay in Australia?
Extensions are typically not granted for visa-free or tourist entries. To stay longer, apply for a long-stay residence visa at a Australia consulate before your authorized period expires.
What happens if I overstay my 90-day authorized period?
Overstays in Australia can result in fines, deportation, and entry bans. Penalties vary by country. Always exit before your authorized period ends.
Can I work remotely from Australia on a tourist entry?
This is a legal gray area. Working for a foreign employer while physically in Australia is technically not permitted on tourist status. For longer or formal arrangements, look at Australia's digital nomad or freelance visa options.
How much money do I need to show at the border?
Border officers may request proof of funds covering your stay. Bank statements, credit cards, or cash typically satisfy this. Specific minimums vary by country — check the destination-specific table above.
Do I need travel insurance to enter Australia?
Travel insurance is not always mandatory but strongly recommended for medical emergencies abroad. Policies covering trip cancellation and medical evacuation typically cost $30-70/month.
Can I apply for residency from inside Australia?
In most cases, no — long-term visas must be applied for at a Australia consulate before arrival. Some exceptions exist (family reunion, employer sponsorship). Check with local immigration before assuming.
How long must my passport be valid?
Passport validity requirements vary by country, typically 3-6 months beyond your planned departure. Check the destination-specific requirement above. Renewing 8-9 months before expiry is good practice.
Can I bring my pet to Australia?
Most countries require: ISO microchip, valid rabies vaccination (15+ days, <1 year old), health certificate from an accredited vet (within 10 days of travel), and may require an import permit. Verify with the destination's veterinary authority.
This information is for reference only. Always verify requirements with the official embassy or consulate before travel. Data is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.