VISAS & CUSTOMS
You'll need a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before you travel to Australia, if you're not an Australian or New Zealand citizen. New Zealand citizens are issued with a visa on arrival.
Visas are available from Australian embassies, high commissions and consulates. Alternatively, an ETA is available online before you leave, or from travel agents and airlines in certain countries. An ETA is registered electronically, so you don't need anything pasted into your passport before you leave. The ETA is confirmed electronically on your arrival in Australia.
Multi-entry three-month tourist visas are valid for one year. Six-month visas are also available. To extend your visa in Melbourne, contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.You should apply at least a month prior to expiration of your visa – just to be sure.
Working Holiday visas
The Working Holiday visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to 12 months and to work for up to six months with any one employer. Visas must be arranged several months prior to travel to Australia.
Citizens from the UK, Canada, the Netherlands, Japan, Republic of Ireland, Republic of Korea, Malta, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Hong Kong, Finland, the Republic of Cyprus, France, Italy, Belgium and Taiwan – aged between 18 and 30, without children, can join the Working Holiday Program.
Click here for more information.
Customs
Prior to landing in Australia you'll be handed an immigration form to fill out, as well as Customs and Agriculture Declaration forms. Australia has particularly strict quarantine laws - you must declare all goods of animal or plant origin, and you can't bring fresh fruit or vegetables into the country. If you're unsure about any items, it's best to declare them. If you've been snacking on the flight, ditch leftovers in the arrival area quarantine bins, or on the way to collect your luggage.
For more information, visit the Australian Customs Service website.
