Things worldwide gradually seem normal as the global vaccine rollout gains momentum. We monitor the situation closely and keep this blog updated with new information. Now can we travel to Australia?
In Australia
The Australian Prime Minister has announced significant changes to Australia’s border rules, allowing thousands of overseas in Australia arrivals – including working holidaymakers.
From Now, all valid visa holders who have been fully vaccinated with a recognised vaccine by the TGA (i.e. AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson) will be allowed to enter Australia without any exemption.
Australia will also establish travel bubbles with Japan and South Korea, similar to that already in effect with Singapore and previously in action with New Zealand. Travellers must do a PCR test before boarding their flight and show evidence of complete vaccination. This is a massive step towards fully reopening the borders for all tourists in early 2022!
Visa requirements
To visit Australia, you must be a citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder in one of the above categories, so ordinary tourist visas are still suspended.
If you’re ready for an Aussie working holiday, the good news is you can apply for a 417 -Working Holiday visa or a 462-Work and Holiday visa, depending on your passport. Due to the backlog of tickets, the processing may take time. So you must be patient!
Travellers should also complete an Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) at least 72 hours before departure.
Negative covid report
The candidate must show a negative Covid PCR test taken 72 hours or less before departure before travelling.
Do I need a vaccine report?
To travel to Australia, it will be necessary to be fully vaxxed against Covid-19 with a vaccine recognised by the TGA (i.e. AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson).
Proof of insurance
Travel insurance is unnecessary for citizens, residents, or immediate family members.
Quarantine
Now, fully vaccinated eligible visa holders will travel to Australia without a travel exemption or quarantine as long as they enter New South Wales or Victoria. Find out more on the government website.
Un-vaccinated arrivals will still need to quarantine for 14 days at a designated facility in their port of arrival. Travellers may be required to pay for quarantine costs depending on the state or territory.
Covid tracking
When entering bars, restaurants and shops, you must check in with a QR code to record your presence.
Restriction & open tourist attractions
Candidates must wear masks on all flights, including airports and on public transport. Restrictions on mask-wearing, open businesses and tourist attractions vary across states.
Returning home
Every country has different restrictions for travellers arriving from abroad. Keep updated with local government announcements or news for information relevant to your situation.
UK – international travel restrictions apply under a simplified two-tier system from October 2021. The good news is that Australia is GREEN, so once the country fully opens to tourism, we will be ready to restart our small group tours! Find out more about UK travel restrictions here.
Bottom line
Vaccinated working holidaymakers and students can apply for their Australian visa today and enter quarantine-free. Full reopening to tourists will soon follow as Australia safely reopens to the world. Start packing your bags, travellers!
