Originally Posted by
cfischer
My wife just got an ETA, but only after first filling out all the form on the AU Immi website (which we did previously). 4 days later no response, so then we read online that one can ONLY apply via the app. Then why on earth is the other system still operational and accepts applications? Why is nothing listed when you go into the decision tree where in the end you get the option of a $0 application via the website or a $20 application via the app? Ugh, all worked out in the end, but this was not smooth.
Are you sure she applied for an ETA and not an eVisitor (Subclass 651) visa? ETA (subclass 601) has never been free(*), and I can't see it listed anywhere in the IMMI website. 651 on the other hand is free, and is available for application - but US citizens are not eligible for that one.
The IMMI website itself is fairly clear about the fact that you need to use the app to apply, and doesn't provide any links to actually apply.
The other option, as has already been suggested, is that she may have been on a scam site rather than the real one.
Having said all that, I don't disagree the IMMi website is poor. I was using it last week for an ABTC application, and even that was a frustrating process.
(*) technically that's not correct. ETA/601 is free, and always has been, but there's always been a "surcharge" if you went via the official website/app to apply. If you could get someone with GDS access to apply for you, there was no charge.