Canada Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australians travelling to Canada by air need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), a quick online pre-approval costing CAD $7, valid for up to five years or until passport expiry.
Australia passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply for your eTA online at the official Government of Canada website (canada.ca/eTA) before booking flights. The eTA costs CAD $7 and is electronically linked to your passport. Most applications are approved within minutes, though some take a few days. The eTA is valid for five years or until your passport expires and allows multiple entries. Each visit can last up to six months. Land border crossings do not require an eTA. Note: Canada charges CAD $7, not USD $7.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada is a highly popular destination for Australians, offering world-class cities, national parks, and ski resorts. The country is considered very safe with a high standard of living. While petty crime exists in urban areas, serious safety incidents involving tourists are rare. Seasonal weather extremes should be planned for, especially in winter when temperatures in many regions fall well below freezing.
Practical Tips
Apply for your eTA well before travel as the vast majority are approved instantly, but a small number require additional review. Only apply on the official canada.ca website to avoid third-party sites that charge inflated fees for the same service. If you plan to work or study in Canada, additional permits are required beyond the eTA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa to visit Canada?
Australians do not need a full visa for tourism but do need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD $7, is applied for online at canada.ca, and is linked electronically to your passport. It is valid for five years or until passport expiry.
How long can Australians stay in Canada?
Australians can stay in Canada for up to six months per visit as a temporary visitor. The border officer determines the exact duration at entry and will stamp your passport. If you wish to extend your stay, apply for an extension before your authorised period expires.
Do I need an eTA to cross into Canada by land?
No. The eTA requirement applies only to travellers arriving by air. Australians crossing into Canada by land from the United States do not need an eTA, though you will still need a valid passport.
Can I work in Canada on a tourist eTA?
No. The eTA only permits tourism, visiting family, or short-term business activities. If you intend to work or study in Canada, you must apply for the appropriate work permit or study permit before or after arrival, depending on the program.