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Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) Referral
In most cases ETAs are granted instantaneously.
Others require up to 12 hours to process and clients/travel agents are asked to 'make an enquiry in X hours to check whether your application has been successful'.
In small percentage of cases some clients will receive the 'refer to embassy' message which advises the ETA cannot be processed electronically. Where an ETA cannot be processed electronically it is called an ETA referral. This does not mean your ETA has been refused. In this situation your ETA referral needs to be assessed by an Immigration Officer.
We advise all clients to not make any irreversible travel arrangements until they have been granted an appropriate visa.
If you have applied via a travel agent, airline or online with a third party, your agent is responsible for processing your referral in accordance with our Procedures for Agents. You do not need to contact us directly or attend our office in person. We have streamlined processes in place with all Agents in the UK and Ireland to minimise any inconvenience to you.
If your agent has referred you to us directly please refer back to them with this advice. If your agent is unsure of the correct procedures your agent should contact us directly for further information.
Email: eta.london@dfat.gov.au
Phone: 020 7887 5863 (10am to midday weekdays except public holidays)