Intel: Australia’s E-Visa & Immigration at Sydney Airport

All non-Australians going to the country must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa in advance of their travels. (That includes Americans and Europeans). 

But the process is surprisingly modern. First, you must download the Australian ETA app on your smartphone. From there, you apply directly inside the app, take a selfie (no pre-loaded pictures from your photo album are allowed), and pay the small fee (approximately 13 usd). You’ll usually get emailed approval within a day or two. It is recommended to do this process at least 4 weeks in advance of your trip, in case there are issues.

Once you land (likely at Sydney’s Kingsford-Smith International Airport), as you walk the halls toward immigration, you’ll see kiosks scattered about. Stop by one of those kiosks, scan your passport, and get a paper receipt. Head straight to the unattended e-passport gates, scan your receipt and head on to the baggage claim. Unfortunately, there isn’t anyone to officially (and personally) welcome you to Australia (and they almost never stamp your passport), but the process is very smooth.

Photo Credit: Syllogi, Executive Traveller

In each publication, Syllogi will share various tips, resources, and other odd bits of helpful information we have happened across in our research.