michelle_dorland

I just applied and got approval for my husbands and my ETA visa. I forgot to put our middle names on the application, just put our first name under the "given name". Do you think we'll have a problem entering Australia?

michelhuebeli

Michelle - with all due respect, what does it matter what we think here on the forum? We won't be the ones standing there having to explain what we did or didn't do, nor will we be the agent wielding the power to let you in or to send you back.

But since you ask, what I think (having made the trip to Australia dozens of times) is that you need to show all required documentation and - if you have it - an official document or two from back home where your middle name is NOT listed so you can say and show that you don't normally use your middle name, by way of excuse that I think will be accepted. Let's hope so, anyway.

tt7

Aren't there three of you coming to Oz? Every traveller needs their own ETA.

The ETA form refers to "Given Names" (i.e., plural) and the instructions clearly require ALL (their capitalisation, not mine) given names. The "details need ..... to be exactly the same as they appear in your passport....."

That said, I would be somewhat surprised if you had a problem. However, it may be better to be safe rather than sorry. I assume that completing another ETA application will cancel the existing ETA (as an ETA is linked to the passport number). When they swipe your passport, it will tell them whether or not you have a valid ETA - it would require an eagle-eyed / bored / picky immigration officer to notice that the ETA does not include all the names on the passport - however, it may be worth spending $40 for some peace of mind....

Melnq8

I don't think it'll be a problem, I really don't. I certainly wouldn't suggest applying for another one.

However, if you're really worried, I'd suggest contacting them directly with your concern.

http://www.immi.gov.au/contacts/visa-enquiries/eta.htm

tt7

Melnq8 managed to find what I couldn't - a number to call! Give them a call and see what they say.

In a different thread, you indicated you would have your 5 year old with you? In this thread, you said you had done your and your husband's ETA but didn't mention the 5 year old, so wanted to ensure you were aware that every person must have their own ETA (even if they are included in a parent's passport).

michelle_dorland

Thanks for your replies. I did my 5 yrs old ETA application correct with both names. It was then that I discovered my error on my and my husband's. I tried to apply for another visa and the website won't let me as I already have a valid one linked to my passport. I have emailed the local office located in Canada and haven't heard back, asking them to correct our given names. I also tried calling, but the phone number on the website is disconnected. I know this is my mistake. I never realized that reaching someone would be so difficult. It's stressing me out since I want to buy our plane tickets and don't want to worry if they will let us into the country when we get to Australia.

michelhuebeli

Have you checked with your airline? They aren't supposed to let you board if your papers aren't in order (they have to bring you back on their nickel if you get refused entry on arrival...), so they know a lot about the formalities and how they are implemented. And they, if anyone, would know where you should go to have the error rectified. But don't give up if the first airline agent can't seem to help, this may need to be kicked upstairs...

orangetravelcat1

Why not call an agency that handles passports and visas, like CIBT? They charge a fee but for peace of mind, that would be worth it.