Australia Visa RequirementsFor Taiwan passport holders
Australia requires Taiwan passport holders to obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) before travel. The fee is AUD 20 (approximately USD 13). The ETA allows multiple entries for stays of up to 3 months per visit, with a 12-month validity period.
Taiwan passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Australia.
Apply via the Australian ETA app (iOS/Android) or through a registered travel agent. You cannot apply on the Australian immigration website directly; use the official ETA app. Fee is AUD 20 by credit/debit card. Approval is usually instant or within minutes. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport; carry a printout as backup. You do not need to present a physical visa document at the border.
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
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid ROC Passport
Must be the same passport used to apply for the ETA. Valid for the duration of your intended stay.
Australian ETA App (AUD 20 Fee)
Apply via the official Australian ETA app (iOS/Android). Fee AUD 20 by credit/debit card. Approval usually instant.
Required at Entry
ETA Approval Confirmation
The ETA is electronically linked to your passport. Keep your approval email as backup. No physical visa label is issued.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from Australia within 3 months. Australian border officers commonly check.
Completed Incoming Passenger Card
Fill in the arrival card distributed on the plane. Must declare any food, animal, plant, soil items.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Adequate funds for your stay. AUD 1,000 per month or equivalent bank/credit card.
Current Travel Situation
Taiwan to Australia: What You Need to Know
Australia and Taiwan do not have formal diplomatic relations; Australia recognizes the PRC. However, Australia and Taiwan have substantial unofficial ties, including significant trade (Taiwan is a major buyer of Australian iron ore, coal, and LNG) and security cooperation. Australia extends ETA access to Taiwan passport holders, though with a fee of AUD 20, unlike some passport holders who receive free ETAs. The Australian Office in Taipei (Australian Commerce and Industry Office) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Canberra maintain active bilateral engagement.
How to Get There
For stays exceeding 3 months or for work and study: apply for a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417, available to Taiwan citizens aged 18-30), Student Visa (subclass 500), or Skilled Worker Visa through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
Money & Banking
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are universally accepted; Australia is highly cashless. ATMs dispense AUD. International card fees apply; consider a multi-currency travel card to reduce fees.
Practical Tips
Direct flights from Taipei (TPE) to Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE), and Perth (PER) operate via EVA Air, Qantas, China Airlines, and others. The ETA is valid for multiple entries over 12 months; each stay must not exceed 3 months. For work or study, different visas apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Taiwan passport holders need a visa for Australia?
Yes. Taiwan passport holders must obtain an Australian ETA (Electronic Travel Authority, subclass 601) before travel. The fee is AUD 20 (approximately USD 13). The ETA allows multiple entries for stays up to 3 months each, valid for 12 months.
How do I apply for the Australian ETA as a Taiwanese passport holder?
Apply via the official Australian ETA app (available on iOS and Android). You cannot apply on the main Australian immigration website; the dedicated app is required. Fee is AUD 20 by credit/debit card. Approval is usually instant. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport; no physical document is issued.
Why does Australia charge AUD 20 for the ETA while other countries offer free ETAs to Taiwan?
Australia applies the ETA fee based on its own fee schedule. Taiwan passport holders are categorized under paid ETA status. This fee is a standard application processing charge, not a political statement about Taiwan's status.
Is there a Taiwan representative office in Australia?
Yes. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) has offices in Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth, providing comprehensive consular services for Taiwanese citizens throughout Australia.
What is the Australia Working Holiday Visa and can Taiwanese citizens apply?
Yes. Taiwan citizens aged 18-30 (extendable to 35 in some cases) can apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417). This allows 12 months in Australia with work rights. Complete 88 days of specified regional work (farming, construction) for a second-year visa, and 180 days for a third year.
Which airlines fly from Taipei to Australia?
Direct or single-connection flights from Taipei (TPE) to Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE), and Perth (PER) operate via EVA Air, China Airlines, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines (via SIN). Flight time is approximately 9-10 hours direct.
What should I know about Australian customs when bringing items from Taiwan?
Australia has very strict biosecurity. All food items, wooden products, plant materials, and certain animal products must be declared or left behind. Failure to declare attracts heavy fines (AUD 420 on the spot, potentially higher for serious violations). Declare everything you are unsure about; customs officers are trained and thorough.