The Australian Department of Home Affairs announced stricter ETA processing for Indian passport holders effective August 1. Applicants must now submit employment and financial documents plus a police clearance certificate. Average approval time will increase from one day to five business days.
The policy targets a 23 percent rise in ETA refusals recorded in 2025. Indian travellers planning visits to Sydney, Melbourne and the Great Barrier Reef will face the new requirements.
Tourism Australia expects minimal impact on overall visitor numbers because 78 percent of Indian travellers already hold valid ETAs issued before August. Airlines have been instructed to verify ETA status at check-in.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has requested reciprocal fast-track processing for Australian citizens applying for Indian e-visas. Negotiations continue in Canberra.
What this means for you
Submit ETA applications at least 10 business days before travel after August 1. Prepare scanned copies of bank statements for the last three months and a recent employment letter. Avoid last-minute bookings during the transition period.
Indian nationals already holding valid ETAs issued before July 31 can travel without reapplication. Double-check airline requirements 48 hours before departure.
The tighter rules aim to reduce overstays while maintaining strong tourism growth from India projected at 15 percent annually.