Australia is Open! Returning to Australia? What you need to know.

After nearly two years of one of the world’s strictest and most extended travel bans, Australia announced that they would open the international borders to all fully vaccinated visa holders from 21 February. The country is ready to welcome international visitors again. 

Here is everything you need to know about the reopening. 

When are the Australian borders reopening?

Australia’s borders have been progressively opening since November 2021, although many traveller groups were not yet allowed to enter the country. 

Skilled workers in critical sectors were welcomed into the country during 2021, but the reopening on 21 February will allow all visa holders, including tourists and business travellers, to enter the country. This decision was made after the National Security Committee of Cabinet agreed that the improving health conditions amid the coronavirus pandemic justify the call to open the borders officially.

The news has been received with great joy since many people with bridging visas have been trapped onshore or offshore since the start of Australia’s travel ban in 2020. Thousands of people who have been unable to see their families or travel for work will now be able to do so as long as they adhere to the vaccination requirements. Further to this, the country’s tourist industry will welcome the influx of international visitors travelling to Australia for holidays. Those awaiting border openings for international relocation will also be able to set their plans in motion.

What are the vaccination requirements for international travel to Australia? 

To gain entry access to Australia, all travellers must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, unless a vaccination exemption is provided for medical reasons. Unvaccinated travellers are still obligated to undergo hotel quarantine upon arrival, regardless of a valid vaccination exemption card. Travellers to Australia must also currently present a negative PCR test no older than three days or a rapid antigen test no older than 24 hours. Further to this, travellers must wear masks for the duration of the flight. 

International travellers are required to provide proof of having received two doses of any approved Covid-19 vaccine, which includes AstraZeneca, Janssen, Moderna, Pfizer, and Sinovac. A third booster shot is not mandatory for the time being, although it could become a requirement in the future. Printed and digital vaccine certificates issued by government authorities or accredited vaccination providers will be accepted. The name on the certificate must match the name on the traveller’s passport. The certificate must also indicate the vaccine brand and the dates the dosages were administered. The information must be presented in English or accompanied by a certified translation. 

Do these rules apply to all states?

While most of Australia is opening up to international visitors, some states may have stricter measures in place than others. Western Australia, for example, is currently closed to non-residents from abroad and other Australian states unless they have permission to enter. In contrast, travel into New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria is expected to be much easier. 

Quarantine and testing requirements may differ from state to state. For example, in New South Wales and Victoria, travellers are required to present another test within 24 hours of arrival and must self-isolate until a negative result is received. Travelling between states should be stress-free, with no additional testing required with the exception of Western Australia, as noted above.

As for underaged travellers, children below the age of 12 are considered fully vaccinated, although 12-17-year-olds may fall outside this category depending on the state-specific vaccination criteria. Some Australian states may allow unvaccinated or partially vaccinated teenagers to enter, although this might not be the case nationwide. If you are planning a trip to Australia, make sure you check the precise requirements of the state you are travelling to. 

Can I relocate to Australia now that the borders are opening?

Yes! With the international borders opening for all visa holders this month, nothing is holding you back from getting started on your relocation journey to Australia. 

THE EXPATRIATE Relocation Specialist Blog was written By Leona Lees from Claymore and Thistle.  If you’d like some more information about relocating to Australia today to book your complimentary consultation  for relocation to Australia. 

For more insights into living, working, and travelling in Australia, take a look at Claymore Thistle’s relocation blog. 

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