Fully vaccinated Australians will soon be able to travel internationally without the need of applying for an exemption. The Government has announced that Australian citizens or permanent residents over the age of 12 who have received two doses of an approved vaccine will be allowed to travel without exemption. This could start sometime in November, but more information will be provided shortly.
Children under 12 years of age and those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons can also be able to travel overseas without an exemption.
Australian citizens and permanent residents who do not meet the eligibility requirements should continue to follow current border processes when leaving Australia or entering Australia.
Evidence of vaccination
Fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents must present their vaccination status when checking in at the airport for departure. You must show the airline staff your International COVID-19 vaccination certificate. You can request this in your MyGov account, once your vaccine is registered on the Australian Immunization Register.
International COVID-19 vaccination certificates are used around the world to show evidence that travelers have been vaccinated. The certificate will be available in PDF format and can be printed or stored electronically on your phone. The International COVID-19 vaccination certificate is based on ePassport technology and works similar to passport chips in the form of a QR code. The airline will check your vaccination status at check-in for departure.
Once the request for your international COVID19 vaccination certificate is available, it will take only a few minutes. If you do not have access to the internet, you can call Medicare to submit an application and the certificate will be emailed to you; this can take up to 14 days.
Returning to Australia
Australian citizens and permanent residents who are fully vaccinated with an Australian government approved vaccine, or who are under the age of 12 may be eligible for reduced quarantine arrangements when they return to Australia. You will need to show your vaccination status at check-in when travelling to Australia.
Quarantine Regulation
States and Territories are responsible for establishing and administering reduced quarantine regulations for vaccinated Australians and permanent residents. This can include limited home quarantine. You should check with the State or Territory that you are returning to for their quarantine arrangements.
Wayfinder Migration is happy to assist those who wish to undertake international travel. We know this is an exciting time for everyone. However, it is important that you are fully aware of the implications of travelling before making any plans.
Please note, this should be taken as a generic guide and is not considered or official advice. Travel advice is evolving constantly, as such, proper assessment should be undertaken at all times.
Still unsure? Feel free to book in a consultation for detailed advise and steps!