Deep breath. Here's the answer.

Australian citizens don't need a visa for a short visit to the UK (up to 6 months for permitted activities such as tourism, visiting family or some business), but must get an approved ETA before travelling. The ETA currently costs £20, lasts 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever is sooner) and allows multiple visits. Apply on the official GOV.UK page or the UK ETA app; allow up to 3 working days and wait for approval before you travel. You don't need an ETA if you hold British or Irish citizenship (dual British citizens cannot use an ETA), already have a UK visa or permission to live, work or study in the UK, or are lawfully resident in Ireland and arriving from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man.

Key facts

For Australian passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

You may need a visa if…

• An ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry — border officers still decide.
• British or Irish dual nationals cannot use an ETA.
• Not needed if you already have a UK visa or permission to live, work or study in the UK.
• Lawful residents of Ireland arriving from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man don't need one.
• Work and longer stays need the right visa.

Before you travel

• ✓Apply for your ETA on GOV.UK or the UK ETA app (currently £20).
• ✓Allow up to 3 working days and wait for approval before travelling.
• ✓Travel on the same passport you used for the ETA.

Common questions