Australia's department of immigration and citizenship DIAC has said that it would add Bulgaria, Romania and Poland to the list of countries whose citizens can use Australia's electronic tourist visa system.

Most applicants from the three Eastern European countries can look forward to having their visa applications processen within minutes of submitting them, DIAC secretary Andrew Metcalfe said in a statement, initially published on June 16 and re-circulated by Australian immigration consultans Migration Expert on June 30.

"Australia's electronic tourist visa service allows people from eligible countries to use the internet to apply for a visa at anytime from anywhere in the world, Metcalfe said. "A further step in October this year will introduce another new online service to continue streamlining the processes for EU tourists and business visitors to come to Australia."

"This eVisitor service will further enhance the convenience and speed of online applications. It will use technological advances to enhance security and immigration risk screening. It can also eliminate the need for lengthy application forms and other documents, Metcalfe said.

By giving Bulgarians, Romanians and Poles access to the eVisitor service system, Australia edged closer to full reciprocal visa arrangement with the European Union, he added.

"Simplifying entry for more than a million people from the EU visiting Australia each year enhances cultural links, encourages tourism growth and facilitates business relationships with Australia’s largest trade partner," Metcalfe said.