Do You Need a Visa For Australia With a French Passport?
French citizens visiting Australia for tourism or short business trips typically need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA - Subclass 601) or an eVisitor (Subclass 651). Both visas allow stays up to 3 months within 12 months. You can apply online via the official Australian government website or app for an ETA, with requirements including a valid passport, a credit/debit card, and a valid email address. It's crucial to apply well in advance.
Australian Visa Options for French Citizens
Australia offers a range of visa types depending on the purpose and length of stay. While French passport holders benefit from streamlined access to certain visas, most travel purposes still require prior approval from the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) / eVisitor (Subclass 651)
French citizens are eligible for the eVisitor visa (subclass 651), allowing short stays of up to 90 days per visit for tourism or business activities. This visa is free and applied for online. For longer stays or specific purposes, the Visitor Visa (subclass 600) may be required.
Work Visa
French nationals wishing to work in Australia must apply for an appropriate work visa. Common options include:
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) – Available to French citizens aged 18–35, allowing work and travel for up to 12 months
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) – Requires employer sponsorship
Skilled Independent or Employer-Sponsored Visas – For qualified professionals meeting skills and experience criteria
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
French students accepted into Australian universities, colleges, or vocational institutions must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Applicants must provide proof of enrolment (CoE), sufficient funds, health insurance (OSHC), and, where applicable, English proficiency.
Family and Partner Visas
French citizens joining partners or family members in Australia may apply for Partner Visas, Parent Visas, or Child Visas, depending on their relationship and circumstances. These visas require extensive documentation proving genuine relationships and long-term intent.
Business and Temporary Activity Visas
For short-term professional engagements, conferences, or specialised activities, French citizens may qualify for Temporary Activity (Subclass 408) or Business Visitor streams, depending on the nature of the work.
Australian Visa Requirements for French Citizens
Eligibility depends on the visa category but generally includes:
A valid French passport
Proof of purpose of travel
Evidence of sufficient financial means
Health and character requirements
Valid health insurance (for most long-stay visas)
Certain visas, such as work or student visas, require sponsorship, enrolment confirmation, or skills assessments.
Required Documents
Valid French passport (scanned copy)
Completed online visa application
Passport-style photographs
Proof of accommodation or invitation
Financial evidence (bank statements, payslips)
Travel plans or return ticket (where required)
Visa-specific documents (employment contract, CoE, relationship evidence)
Certified Translation Requirements
All documents issued in French must be translated into English by a certified translator. This commonly includes birth certificates, marriage certificates, police clearance certificates, academic diplomas, and bank statements. Translayte provides certified translations that are accepted by Australian immigration authorities, ensuring full compliance with Home Affairs requirements.
Step-by-Step Australian Visa Application Process for French Citizens
Identify the Correct Visa
Choose the visa that matches your travel purpose using the Australian Home Affairs visa finder.
Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather all required documents and ensure they are current and complete.
Translate Documents into English
Any French-language document must be professionally translated and certified. Translayte ensures accuracy and official acceptance.
Submit Online Application
Applications are submitted through the ImmiAccount portal. Upload documents and pay the visa fee (if applicable).
Biometrics and Health Checks
Some applicants may be asked to provide biometrics or undergo medical examinations.
Visa Outcome
Processing times vary by visa type—from a few days for eVisitor visas to several weeks or months for long-stay visas. Once approved, visas are issued electronically.
Tips for a Successful Australian Visa Application for French Citizens
Submit a complete and well-organised application with clearly translated documents.
Inconsistencies, missing translations, or unclear financial evidence are among the most common causes of delays.
Apply well in advance of your intended travel date, especially for work or family visas.
Ensure your translated documents accurately reflect the originals, and use trusted providers like Translayte to meet Australian certification standards.
Being well-prepared significantly improves your chances of a smooth and successful visa approval.
