Australian ETA Photo Requirements and Guidelines
The Australian ETA application uses a live photo taken in the mobile application[1]. When you apply for your Electronic Travel Authority, you need to provide a clear picture of your face. Understanding how the process works helps you avoid common mistakes during your application.
Official Size and Specifications
The cited guide does not give photo dimensions. The ETA photo is taken live in the mobile application[1]. Do not rely on a 35 × 45 mm crop as an official requirement. Some photo studios use a 35 by 45 millimetre size because people ask for it, but the official system relies on the live capture tool[1].
The cited guide does not specify a head-height measurement[1]. Follow the instructions shown in the application when you take the photo.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The ETA video guides include instructions for taking a live photo[1]. The cited page does not state a background colour or lighting requirement. The supplied research recommends using a plain, light-coloured background for the live photo.
Face a window to get natural light on your face. Avoid standing directly under overhead lamps, which can cast dark shadows under your eyes and chin. Turn off room lights that create a yellow or uneven glow on your skin. Stand a short distance away from your background wall so you do not cast a harsh shadow behind your head.
How to Take Your Photo at Home
Follow the in-app instructions to take the live photo[1]. Prop your phone on a stable surface or ask a friend to hold the camera for you at eye level. Holding the phone yourself can cause the angle to tilt or your arm to block the frame.
Follow the instructions shown in the application when taking the photo[1].
The guide describes taking a live photo in the application[1]. It does not say whether a separate crop or printed photo is needed.
Glasses and Headwear Rules
The cited guide does not specify rules for glasses[1]. Follow any instructions shown in the application.
The cited guide does not specify rules for headwear[1]. Follow any instructions shown in the application.
Rules for Children and Infants
The live-photo guide is for applicants, but the cited page does not give separate instructions for infants[1]. The supplied research says a live photo is required for each applicant, with no separate infant specifications.
If you are helping a baby or toddler, lay them flat on a plain light sheet or hold them against a plain wall. Make sure their face is fully visible with their eyes open and mouth closed. Since babies move quickly, take several pictures until you get a clear shot that fits the on-screen guides.
Digital Submission and File Preparation
The ETA guide describes taking a live photo in the application[1]. It does not state file-size limits or pixel dimensions.
You can use the tool above to format your image file correctly if you have an extra photo saved. Always review the final picture to verify that your face is clear and well-lit before you upload it. Check that nothing blocks your facial features and that the image is sharp.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for an Australian ETA?
The cited guide does not state photo dimensions. It describes taking a live photo in the mobile application[1].
Can I wear glasses in my ETA photo?
The cited guide does not specify whether glasses may be worn. Follow any instructions shown in the application[1].
What background colour should I use?
A live photo is taken in the application using the applicant’s mobile phone; use a plain, light-coloured background[1].
Are there special photo rules for infants?
A live photo is required for each applicant; no separate infant specifications stated[1].
Does the application require a specific file size?
There are no published file size limits on the official guide[1].
Do I need to print my photo for the application?
No, the system captures a live digital image inside the mobile application, so printed copies are not required[1].