Australia Visa Guide 2026
Canada 🇨🇦 Australia 🇦🇺
Canada to Australia Visa Guide
Official 2026 entry protocols for Canadian citizens. Australia requires all Canadian passport holders to have a valid visa or ETA before travel.
| Visa Option | Max Age | Stay Limit | 2026 Key Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| ETA (Subclass 601) | Any | 3 Months / visit | AUD 20 (Service Fee) |
| Working Holiday (417) | 35 Years | Up to 3 Years | AUD 670 |
| Student (Subclass 500) | Any | Course Length | AUD 1,600+ (Est.) |
| PR (Subclass 189/190) | 45 Years | Indefinite | AUD 4,765+ |
1. Tourism & Short Stays (ETA) App-Only
Canadians visiting for tourism or short business meetings typically use the **Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)**.
- Application: You must apply through the official **AustralianETA mobile app**. It uses NFC to scan your Canadian passport chip.
- Cost: There is no government visa fee, but a mandatory **AUD 20 service fee** applies for using the app.
- Validity: Valid for 12 months with multiple entries. Each stay can be up to 3 months.
- No Work: You cannot work for an Australian employer on an ETA; it is for tourism and business enquiries only.
2. Working Holiday (International Experience) For Ages 18-35
Canada is an eligible partner country for the **Working Holiday (Subclass 417)** visa.
- Extended Age: Canadian citizens can apply for this visa up until their **36th birthday** (age 18-35 inclusive).
- Duration: You can participate up to 3 times (12 months each) for a total of 36 months if you meet specified work requirements.
- Funds: You must show proof of at least **AUD 5,000** for your initial stay, plus money for a return flight.
- Specified Work: To get a 2nd or 3rd-year visa, you must perform "specified work" (e.g., farming, construction) in regional Australia.
3. Skilled Migration (Permanent Residency) Points-Based
Australia actively seeks skilled Canadians in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and tech.
- Points Test: You must score at least 65 points based on age, English (Canadians usually get full points without a test), education, and experience.
- Skills Assessment: Mandatory step where an Australian authority verifies your Canadian qualifications. Fees range from **AUD 500 to 1,500**.
- State Nomination (190): Grants an extra 5 points and a direct pathway to PR.
4. Border Security & Fast Track SmartGate Entry
Australia uses advanced technology to speed up entry for Canadians.
- SmartGates: Canadian passport holders (16+) can use automated eGates at all major airports (Sydney, Melbourne, etc.) for biometric entry.
- Biosecurity: Australia is extremely strict. You must declare all food, plants, and animal products. Fines for non-declaration are very high.
- Currency: Cash exceeding **AUD 10,000** must be declared upon arrival.
© 2026 Global Visa Guide | Verified via Department of Home Affairs & Australian Migration Data.