Changes to the requirements for travel into and out of Australia came into effect on 18 April 2022. So what does that mean for your overseas trip?
Pre-departure testing is no longer required
When travelling to Australia, you no longer need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result to board your plane.
It’s important to remember that transport providers, transit locations and the state or territory you arrive in may still have testing requirements. Always check the requirements before you travel.
You still need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration when travelling to Australia. And you must still wear a mask at all times if you’re travelling to Australia by air.
Cruise travel into and out of Australia has resumed
Cruise vessels can once again travel into and out of Australian waters.
COVID-19 remains a global health risk, and infectious diseases such as COVID-19 can spread quickly onboard cruises. Carefully consider the risks of international travel before you book.
The Department of Health recommends that you avoid cruise ship travel if
- your routine COVID-19 and travel vaccinations aren’t fully up to date
- you’re in a vulnerable group that puts you at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
If you’re travelling to Australia on a cruise, you must complete a Maritime Travel Declaration before you board your vessel.
Read our advice on cruising overseas for more information.
Exemptions are no longer required to leave Australia
Unvaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents can now leave Australia without an individual travel exemption. But you may still be asked about your vaccination status. You’re required to show proof of your vaccination status if you’re asked by an Australian official or your transport provider.
The Australian Government recommends passengers leaving Australia be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and travel with proof of vaccination status documentation. If you’re unvaccinated, you’re strongly discouraged from international travel due to the health risks.
Airlines, cruise lines and other destinations can still have their own vaccination policies. You may face difficulty finding transport options if you’re unvaccinated.
Before you decide to travel
Remember
Only the Australian federal border restrictions have changed. Foreign governments, transport providers and Australian states and territories can have their own requirements for COVID-19 testing and vaccination.
Your transport provider can refuse to allow you on board if
- you’re showing symptoms of COVID-19
- you don’t meet their vaccination or testing requirements
- you don’t meet the requirements of your destination
- you refuse to wear a mask when required.
To understand all the rules and requirements before committing to an overseas trip:
- Read our Global COVID-19 Health Advisory and our step-by-step guide to travel during COVID-19.
- Read and subscribe to the travel advice for your destination, as well as all your transit locations. Make sure you understand their entry and exit requirements, and their vaccination requirements beyond the border.
- Contact your transport providers to confirm their vaccination and testing requirements.
Read more
- See our information on leaving Australia
- Learn about Australia’s re-entry and biosecurity measures
- Read about COVID-19 vaccinations and travel
- See our COVID-19 FAQs
See also
- COVID-19 and the border (Department of Home Affairs)
- Advice for Australian travellers (Department of Health)