Do Children Need to Apply for Australia ETA?
If you're planning a trip to Australia with your child, one important question you may have is: Do children need to apply for an Australia ETA? This is a common query among parents, as travel documentation requirements can vary depending on the traveler’s age.
In this article, we'll clarify whether children need to apply for an ETA to Australia, and provide helpful information on how to ensure that your child's travel documents are in order for your trip.
What is the Australia ETA?
The Australia Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is an electronic visa that allows eligible travelers to enter Australia for short stays, such as for tourism or business purposes. The ETA is linked directly to your passport and is valid for 12 months, allowing for multiple visits with a maximum stay of three months at a time.
The ETA is available for citizens of several countries, including the United States, Canada, the UK, and many others. It is one of the most efficient and convenient visa options for short-term visitors to Australia.
Do Children Need to Apply for Australia ETA?
Yes, children do need to apply for an Australia ETA. Like adults, all travelers, including children, must have a valid visa to enter Australia. This includes infants, toddlers, and minors who are traveling with their parents or guardians.
Even though the process is straightforward and mostly done online, every child must have their own ETA application linked to their passport, as the ETA is tied to individual travel documents.
What You Need to Know About Applying for an ETA for Children
Here’s a closer look at what you need to know when applying for an ETA for your child:
Separate Application for Each Child: Each child, regardless of age, must have a separate ETA application submitted in their name. The ETA cannot be shared between family members, so each child must have their own approved ETA linked to their passport.
Passport Requirements: Children will need their own valid passport to apply for an ETA. If your child doesn’t have a passport, you’ll need to apply for one before proceeding with the ETA application. This applies even to newborns and infants.
Same Application Process: The application process for children's ETA is the same as for adults. You’ll need to fill out an online form with the child’s details, passport information, and travel dates. The process is simple and quick, usually taking only a few minutes to complete.
No Additional Documents: In most cases, you do not need to submit additional documentation, such as birth certificates or parental consent forms, when applying for an ETA for a child. However, you may be asked to provide proof of travel arrangements or other documents in some cases.
Parental Consent: When filling out the ETA application, you will need to provide your consent as the parent or guardian of the child. This is a standard part of the process and helps ensure that the application is authorized.
Validity and Multiple Entries: Like adults, the ETA for children is valid for 12 months and allows multiple entries into Australia, with each visit not exceeding three months. If your child is traveling with you multiple times within a year, their ETA will remain valid as long as the 12-month period has not expired.
How to Apply for an ETA for a Child
The process for applying for an ETA for a child is similar to the process for adults. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
Visit the Official Application Website: Start by visiting the official Australian Government website or an accredited visa service provider to apply for your child’s ETA.
Complete the Application Form: You will need to complete an online application form with your child's personal details, passport information, and your travel plans. Be sure to enter all the information accurately to avoid delays.
Pay the Processing Fee: The processing fee for an ETA is the same for children as it is for adults. The cost is typically around AUD 20, though this may vary slightly depending on where you apply. Payment is made online using a credit or debit card.
Submit the Application: After completing the form and payment, submit the application. The ETA is usually approved within minutes, but you should apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any last-minute issues.
Receive the ETA: Once your child’s ETA is approved, it will be electronically linked to their passport. There’s no need to print anything unless specifically requested. The ETA is linked to the passport, so when the child travels, they just need to carry their passport to enter Australia.
Why Do Children Need an ETA?
All international visitors to Australia, including children, are subject to the country’s visa requirements. Even though children may not be traveling alone, they still require an ETA to ensure that their entry is authorized by the Australian government.
Having an ETA linked to your child’s passport ensures that the child can legally enter Australia for tourism or business purposes, just like adults. This also simplifies the immigration process, as the visa details are already electronically stored and linked to the passport.
Special Considerations for Children
Traveling with Only One Parent: If a child is traveling with only one parent or another guardian, you may be required to provide consent from the other parent for the trip. While this is not typically required for the ETA application itself, it may be asked for by Australian immigration authorities or airlines.
Infants and Newborns: Even though they are too young to apply for an ETA themselves, infants and newborns must still have their own approved ETA to enter Australia. The application process is the same, and the child will need their own passport.
Conclusion
In summary, children do need to apply for an Australia ETA if they are traveling to the country. Regardless of their age, every traveler, including children, must have their own valid visa. The process for applying for an ETA for children is simple and efficient, and the ETA is electronically linked to their passport, just like it is for adults.
Make sure to apply well in advance to ensure everything is in order before your trip to Australia. If you're traveling with a child, remember to apply for their ETA separately and ensure that their passport is valid before submitting the application.
Safe travels to Australia with your little one!
Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.
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