Overview
Japanese passport holders are eligible for the Subclass 601 ETA for short-term tourism or business visits.
The Subclass 601 ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) is Australia's main short-stay travel authorization for citizens of select countries including Japan. Introduced in 1996 and modernized over time, it now uses mobile-app-based facial biometrics for most submissions.
Basics
Who Should Submit an Australian ETA
- Japanese passport holders visiting Australia for tourism or business consultation up to 3 months per entry.
- Travelers not exceeding 12 months of cumulative stays in a 12-month period.
- Work, working holiday, or long-term study requires different subclasses: 417 (Working Holiday), 482 (Skills in Demand), 500 (Student) etc.
How the System Works
- Submissions via the official Australian ETA App (iOS / Android only — no desktop option).
- Required: passport scan, facial photo (live capture in app), arrival details.
- Fee is AUD 20.
- Approval typically within minutes, occasionally up to 12 hours.
- Valid for 12 months from issuance, multiple entries permitted.
Recent Updates (2024–2026)
- 2025 — Biometric facial scan added at app submission step.
- 2024 — App-only model fully replaced web-based legacy system.
- Ongoing — SmartGate facial recognition expansion at major airports.
Frequently Asked Points
Why is there no website option?
Department of Home Affairs migrated to app-only in 2024 for biometric capture; this is mandatory for security verification.
Can I use someone else's phone?
Yes, the app supports manual entry; but the facial scan must be of the traveler themselves.
Two passports?
You must travel using the exact passport the ETA is linked to. Renewing your passport requires a new ETA.
What about working at a conference?
Attending a business conference is permitted under ETA. Speaking, performing, or any paid activity may require a different visa.
Notes & Updates
- Apply via the Australian ETA App (official) or the Australian government website.
- Official fee is AUD 20.
- Working holiday, employment, or long-term study requires a different visa (e.g. Subclass 417, 482).
- You must enter Australia using the passport used in the application.
- Australian ETA submissions through third-party sites typically charge AUD 30–80 extra — use the official app to save money.
- Travelers under 18 need their guardian's consent recorded in the app.
- Holders of certain criminal records may be denied — full disclosure is required.
- Citizens of NZ, EU, US, Canada, Japan, and other listed countries are eligible. Other nationalities have different subclasses (ETA Subclass 651, eVisitor Subclass 651).
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* Information current as of May 2026. Always verify with official government sources before travel.
