Australia at a glance
| Entry | ETA 601 · Up to 3 months per visit |
|---|---|
| Retiree visa | None new · Old 405/410 closed |
| FMP line | 1-800-354 965 · Toll-free in Australia |
| Time zone | UTC+8 to +11 · Currency: Australian dollar |
| Cost of living | Roughly USD 2,800–3,800 a month. Housing is the big expense. |
| Money · language · time | Australian dollar (AUD) · English · UTC+8 to UTC+10:30 (some states observe daylight saving) |
Entering Australia
U.S. citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) before flying. Apply through the official AustralianETA app (service charge about AUD 20). It's valid for 12 months with stays of up to 3 months each visit.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- No retirement visa for new applicants. The old Investor Retirement (405) and Retirement (410) visas are closed to new applicants.
- Partner visas for spouses or de facto partners of Australians.
- Parent visas if you have a settled Australian child (long waits or high fees).
- Skilled work visas for people under the age limits with in-demand skills.
VA care and benefits in Australia
No VA medical facility. FMP toll-free in Australia: 1-800-354 965. SSA's records list Manila as the post serving Australia; confirm on SSA's site. Australia is on VA's international direct deposit list.
Vets in Australia are already in the group
Ask about visas, hospitals and FMP claims from people who've done it there.
Healthcare
Excellent. Medicare is for citizens and permanent residents. Visitors and most temporary visa holders need private cover.
Where veterans live
- Darwin: Rotational U.S. Marines, tropical.
- Brisbane / Gold Coast: Warm and fast-growing.
- Perth: West coast, Navy port visits.
- Sydney: Biggest city, U.S. consulate, highest rents.
Cost of living and property
Roughly USD 2,800–3,800 a month. Housing is the big expense. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle, and health insurance is extra.
Foreign buyers need Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval and are mostly limited to new homes. A temporary ban on foreigners buying established homes runs from April 2025 to March 2027.
Watch out for
State Department advisory: Level 1, exercise normal precautions. Bushfires, floods and strong sun. No path to stay long-term without family, work or a large investment.
Veteran organizations
None confirmed. Check VFW Department of Pacific Areas listings. See all veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
Does Australia have a retirement visa?
Not for new applicants. The old retirement visas are closed. Long stays usually need a partner, parent or work visa.
Is there a VA phone line in Australia?
Yes. The Foreign Medical Program toll-free number in Australia is 1-800-354 965.
Can VA pay my benefits into an Australian bank?
Yes. Australia is on VA's international direct deposit list.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.
