Australia announced on 2 June that the eVisitor (subclass 651) scheme for British citizens will remain valid until 31 December 2028. The extension covers multiple-entry stays of up to three months and applies automatically to existing and new applicants. Officials cited 1.8 million UK arrivals in 2025 as key evidence of sustained demand.
The decision aligns with updated reciprocal arrangements negotiated during Prime Minister Albanese’s May visit to London. Processing times stay at an average of 48 hours for online applications. No biometric or interview requirements have been added for this nationality group.
Background context shows the original eVisitor program launched in 2008 and has been renewed periodically to support tourism and business links. UK travellers previously faced uncertainty after the 2023 pilot extension expired in March 2026. The new timeline provides four years of certainty for frequent visitors.
Further context includes Australia’s broader goal of reaching 15 million annual visitors by 2030. Tourism Australia data indicates British travellers spend an average of AUD 4,200 per trip, ranking among the top five source markets. The extension supports regional economies in Queensland and Victoria that rely heavily on long-haul arrivals.
What this means for you
UK passport holders planning trips before 2029 can continue using the free online eVisitor application without new fees or paperwork. Apply no earlier than three months before departure via the official homeaffairs.gov.au portal to avoid processing delays during peak summer. Keep a printed or digital copy of the grant notice for airline check-in.
Travellers should verify their passport validity covers at least six months beyond the planned return date, as this remains a standard entry condition. Families with children under 18 must ensure each minor has an individual approval even when travelling on a parent’s passport. Avoid third-party visa agents charging unnecessary service fees.
Looking ahead, the four-year extension allows travellers to book multi-year holiday packages and frequent-flyer redemptions with confidence while Australia reviews further digital entry upgrades scheduled for 2029.