The Complete Guide to Australia ETA (Subclass 601)
For Malaysians
The fastest way for Malaysians to visit Australia. Learn how to apply via the app, troubleshoot issues, and get approved in minutes.
What is the 601 ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is a digitally stored visa linked to your passport. It is designed for short-term stays for tourism or business visitor activities.
Instant Processing
Most Malaysian applicants receive approval immediately after submitting via the Australian ETA App.
1 Year Validity
Valid for 12 months. You can enter Australia as many times as you want, staying up to 3 months each visit.
App Only
Malaysians must use the official "Australian ETA" app. No physical forms or embassy visits required.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Download the App
Download the "Australian ETA" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This is the only official way to apply.
Scan Your Passport
Use your phone's camera to scan the bio-data page of your Malaysian passport. Ensure there is no glare. Then, use the NFC function to read the chip in your passport cover.
Take a Facial Scan
Take a selfie within the app. Blink your eyes when prompted to verify you are a real person (liveness test).
Answer Declarations
Answer questions about your criminal history and domestic violence explicitly. Be truthful—false answers can lead to a 3-year ban.
Pay the Service Fee
Pay the AUD $20 service fee using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card.
Troubleshooting & Common Problems
App Stuck on "Scanning Chip"
Remove your phone case. Move the phone slowly up and down the back or front cover of your passport. It can be sensitive.
"More Information Required"
If instant approval isn't granted, you may receive a request for further information (Form 1554). Check your email immediately. This often happens if you have a common name or a previous visa history.
Cannot Find Malaysia in List
Ensure you have selected the correct "Issuing Authority" country code. It should be "MYS" for Malaysia.
Visa Rejected?
Do not re-apply immediately. A rejection on the ETA likely means you need to apply for a Subclass 600 Visitor Visa instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Australia on a 601 Visa?
No. The Australian ETA (601) has a strict "No Work" condition (8101). You cannot undertake paid work. However, you can attend business meetings, conferences, or seminars.
How long is the 601 ETA valid for?
It is generally valid for 12 months from the date of grant. It allows multiple entries, but each individual stay cannot exceed 3 months.
What if I have a criminal record?
You may not be eligible for an ETA. You should declare it truthfully. If you have a criminal conviction (especially with 12 months+ jail sentence), you must apply for a Subclass 600 visa and provide police certificates.
Official Visa Summary
Subclass 601 ETA
Visa Summary (2026)
- • Electronic Travel Authority (ETA 601)
- • Stay: 3 months per visit (12 months validity)
- • Processing: < 24 hours (Instant)
- • Service Charge: AUD 20
- • Eligible passports only
Australia Visa Consulting
Hotline: +60 11-3551 8168 | WhatsApp | Offline Address: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (by appointment).
FAQ
- What does the fee cover? Base Visa Application Charge (VAC) only. Excludes health checks, insurance, biometrics, or professional fees.
- Is processing time accurate? Based on official 90% processing times. Specific cases vary by document completeness and checks.
- Medical exam required? Required for most long-term visas and some short-term visitors.
- Validity Updated 2026. Policies change; always verify with official Home Affairs guidance.
Important: Only specific passport holders (Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, USA, Canada, Japan, Korea, etc.) are eligible. Chinese (Mainland) passport holders must apply for a Subclass 600.
