can i travel in australia unvaccinated

Entering or leaving Australia

Australia welcomes millions of overseas visitors each year. Anyone who is not an Australian citizen needs a valid visa to enter the country.

International passenger caps have been removed for all international passenger arrivals into Australia.

All travellers should be aware that: People entering Australia do not need to provide evidence of vaccination status People entering Australia do not need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration People leaving Australia will not be asked to provide evidence of their vaccination status Unvaccinated visa holders do not ​ need a travel exemption to travel to Australia Mask wearing on international flights to Australia is no longer mandatory . It is important to remember that airlines, vessel operators and other countries may have specific requirements that travellers need to comply with.

Australian Citizens

All Australian citizens must enter and exit Australia on an Australian passport. Your Australian passport must be valid (not expired) on the day of your arrival in Australia. It does not need to have six months remaining validity to enter Australia unless you are passing through a third country that requires it. Citizens are not entitled to a visa, even if you are also a citizen of another country. Please see the  Department of Home Affairs website  for more information. 

Immigration and Visas

All foreign travellers, except New Zealand citizens, must obtain a visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia.

»    Immigration and visas

If you have a specific question, please contact the Department of Home Affairs .

You will also need to know what you can and cannot bring into Australia, knowing the duty-free concession limits and what to experience when travelling through Australian airports and seaports.

Please visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

Plan your trip with  australia.com , the official Tourism Australia website, offering a wide range of travel information and planning tools including over 2000 images, a currency converter, daily weather updates, interactive maps, suggested holiday itineraries, holiday deals, specialist travel agents and more. Available in nine languages.

Tourist Refund Scheme

The  Tourist Refund Scheme  enables you to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you buy in Australia.

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Easing restrictions for australians travelling overseas.

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.
• 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
• COVID-19 and the border (Department of Home Affairs)
• Advice for Australian travellers (Department of Health)

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All unvaccinated travellers can now fly to Australia

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COVID-19 and travel

Find out about travel requirements and steps you can take to stay safe.

Domestic travel within Australia

Domestic travel requirements are determined by state and territory governments. Check the websites of local health departments for information about travel to:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia .

Travelling overseas

The Australian Government does not currently have any COVID-19 requirements in place for travellers entering and departing Australia.

COVID-19 however continues to pose a health risk in Australia and overseas. We strongly encourage wearing masks and being vaccinated while travelling internationally. You should practice good cough and hand hygiene, and physically distance from others where possible.

Some countries, airlines and vessel operators may have COVID-19 travel requirements in place. Check the requirements of any:

• countries you are travelling to, or transiting through
• airlines or vessel operators.
• Smartraveller website
• Australian Government – international travel information .

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is important if you become sick with COVID-19 overseas. Make sure your insurance includes:

• transit destinations
• inclusions for COVID-19
• other add-ons like cruise specific insurance.

Some destinations also require travellers to hold travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Cruise travel

Check with your cruise provider or travel agent for up-to-date travel requirements for your ship and destination/s. You can also contact the relevant state or territory government to find out if any requirements apply for your destination.

Outbreaks onboard a cruise

Cruise ships carry a higher risk for spreading disease compared to other types of travel. COVID-19, influenza, and other infectious diseases spread easily between people living and socialising in close quarters.

If an outbreak of COVID-19 occurs on your cruise, you may need to:

• quarantine on the ship
• disembark and follow the local rules in the state or territory or country you are in.

Before you travel, check the  Smartraveller advice on cruises . Contact your travel agent or cruise operator for specific information on their COVID-19 safety protocols.

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Travel and COVID-19

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If you develop symptoms such as severe shortness of breath or chest pain, call triple zero (000) immediately. Tell the phone operator and the paramedics on arrival if you have COVID-19.

How to avoid catching COVID-19 including getting vaccinated, wearing masks and physical distancing.

Does Australia have COVID-19 travel restrictions?

Travelling to australia.

People travelling to Australia no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

Some countries, airlines and ships may have their own testing, vaccination and face-mask rules. You should check with them before travelling.

During your travel to Australia, you’re encouraged to wear a face mask to reduce your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19.

For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

Travelling interstate

You can freely travel within and between Australia’s states and territories. However, some remote communities may restrict who can enter and leave them.

Learn more about travelling in Australia:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia

Do other countries have COVID-19 travel restrictions?

Some countries may have COVID-19 entry and exit rules. You may need to:

• show proof of COVID-19 vaccination
• show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
• show proof of COVID-19 travel insurance
• quarantine for a certain time on arrival

Related topics

COVID-19 testing

Learn about COVID-19 testing, including when to get tested, what test you should use and what to do if you test positive to COVID-19.

• COVID-19 vaccination

Find out who can get the COVID-19 vaccine, including whether it's safe during pregnancy or for older people, and when and where you can get vaccinated.

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Last reviewed: December 2023

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Australia.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Australia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Australia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is mainly a concern in the Murray River, and the Outer Torres Strait Islands area.

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or traveling at times outside of the Japanese encephalitis season.

Japanese encephalitis (CDC Yellow Book)

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Australia is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Travelers arriving from the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador are exempt from this requirement.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite

Dengue outbreaks in Australia have only occurred in north and central Queensland.

• Avoid Bug Bites

Ross River virus disease

Ross River fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Australia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although Australia is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Australia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Australia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Australia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Australia.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Australia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Australia is ready to be explored as the last state reopens its border

Mar 3, 2022 • 3 min read

Western Australia reopened its borders today © Shutterstock

After nearly 700 days, Western Australia has lifted its hard border and is now permitting travelers to visit.

While Australia  reopened its borders to international tourists last week, Western Australia lagged behind. Labeled the "hermit kingdom" due to its hard border rules, Australia's most remote state largely disconnected from the outside world and kept both domestic and international travelers out in order to keep the virus at bay.

That situation has changed today (March 3) as Western Australia emerges from isolation, becoming the last state to drop its travel entry ban.

“Australia is now finally back together,” Qantas Airways chief executive Alan Joyce said. “This day has been a long time coming.”

Travelers are free to visit without quarantine, but they'll need to abide by slightly different entry rules. While Australia generally requires travelers to be at least double vaccinated to visit, Western Australia wants proof of three doses.

If you're planning a visit to Australia, here's what you need to know about its entry rules.

When can I travel to New Zealand? Opening dates announced for 2022

What vaccines are accepted for travel to Australia?

To be considered fully vaccinated, arrivals must have received at least two doses (including mixed doses) of an approved vaccine which includes AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Covax, Coronavac, Sputnik, Sinopharm, or Novavax, or one dose of a Johnson & Johnson vaccine. At least seven days must have passed since the final dose.

The rules are stricter for travel to Western Australia. The state requires that travelers are triple-vaccinated, complete a G2G pass before travel and take a COVID-19 test within 12 hours of arrival.

The latest Australia health and safety information

Do children have to be vaccinated to travel to Australia?

Children over the age of 12 are expected to show proof of full vaccination to travel to Australia. Though arrangements are in place in some states and territories to allow unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children aged 12-17 years to travel with a fully vaccinated adult. Children aged under 12 years are exempt.

How to present proof of vaccination to travel to Australia

People who were vaccinated in Australia can present their International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) to airline staff before boarding their flight. Overseas travelers can present their own official vaccination certificates.

Are COVID-19 tests required?

Yes, everyone over the age of five must present a negative PCR test result before flying to Australia. The results can be uploaded online, or presented to airline staff, during the check-in process. The test must be taken no later than 72 hours "before the scheduled departure of your first international flight", according to the Australian Embassy .

Travelers visiting Western Australia must take a test within 12 hours of arrival if entering by air (or 24 hours if not entering by air).

Do arrivals need to quarantine?

Quarantine has been scrapped for fully vaccinated arrivals, though unvaccinated arrivals have to quarantine (except in Western Australia where unvaccinated travelers are banned). Some states and territories have at-home quarantine measures in place for children aged between 12 and 17 who are not fully vaccinated.

To check requirements, see State and Territory Information for travelers .

What airlines are flying to Australia?

Major airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines, Etihad, Emirates and Air New Zealand have been ramping up operations since Australia started to reopen in November. Qantas Airways, Australia's national carrier, is operating three weekly return flights between Sydney and London and three weekly return flights between Sydney and Los Angeles to meet "pent up demand". Expect more to announce new schedules .

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This article was first published October 2021 and updated March 2022

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Australians will soon be allowed to travel abroad freely if they are fully vaccinated.

The eased restrictions will be the first stage in the country’s plan to reopen its borders since slamming them shut in 2020, separating families and leaving thousands stranded overseas.

• Share full article

By Livia Albeck-Ripka

• Oct. 27, 2021

The health minister of Australia announced on Wednesday that fully vaccinated residents would finally be allowed to travel abroad starting on Nov. 1, a year and a half after borders were closed to most ingoing and outgoing travel.

“Fully vaccinated Australians will not require an exemption to depart Australia,” Greg Hunt, the country’s health minister, told reporters in Canberra. He added that they would also be able to return without restrictions.

The eased restrictions will be the first stage in Australia’s plan to reopen its international borders since slamming them shut on March 20, 2020, separating families and leaving thousands of Australians stranded overseas .

The second stage, Mr. Hunt said, will allow students and critical workers to enter the country and, eventually, see borders fully reopened to tourists and other visitors.

“It’s exciting,” said Kelsey May, 25, an Australian who returned home from Britain in March of 2020, and has been separated from her partner since. But, Ms. May added: “We’ve been told so many things over the past 18 months that haven’t come to fruition. We just want to see what happens.”

On Monday, the health authorities also approved Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine booster shots for those 18 and older. They said the decision would make the country among the most highly vaccinated places in the world.

Nationwide, 62 percent of eligible Australians have had two doses of the vaccine, and 74 percent have had one dose.

But Canberra, the capital, announced it had become the first jurisdiction in the country to fully vaccinate more than 90 percent of eligible residents age 12 and older.

Livia Albeck-Ripka is a reporter for The New York Times, currently based in California. She was previously a reporter for The Times's Australia bureau. More about Livia Albeck-Ripka

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Australians can travel overseas again: what you need to know

The ban on leaving the country without an exemption is lifted from Monday. But that doesn’t mean a return to pre-Covid normal. Here are the rules

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H allelujah! Monday is the big day when fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents aged 12 and over may travel again internationally without having to apply for an exemption to leave the country.

To qualify as fully vaccinated, a vaccine must be approved or recognised by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This includes two doses at least 14 days apart of: AstraZeneca Vaxzevria, AstraZeneca Covishield, Pfizer/BioNtech Comirnaty, Moderna Spikevax or Sinovac Coronavac, or one dose of Janssen-Cilag Covid vaccine.

Children under 12 and those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons will also be able to travel overseas without an exemption.

If you love to travel but haven’t been vaccinated, there couldn’t be a better incentive to get jabbed.

Smart Traveller has removed its global “Do not travel” advisory and has updated travel advice levels for 177 destinations based on the latest risk assessments related to Covid-19 and other threats to safety and security. At this stage, no destination will be set lower than Level 2 (“Exercise a high degree of caution”).

But before you rush out to book flights, it’s worth asking some key questions:

What are Australia’s exit and re-entry requirements?

What are the requirements of your destination country?

What is your tolerance and budget for potential disruption caused by Covid-19?

Exit: vaccination evidence

To travel internationally without needing an exemption you must show your International Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) at check-in when departing Australia. You can create your ICVC on your myGov account. It will be provided in PDF format for printing or electronic storage on your phone.

Pre-departure test

At check-in, everyone who is five years of age or older must give proof of a negative Covid-19 (PCR) molecular test provided by a laboratory to be done no more than 72 hours before the scheduled departure of the first leg of your return flight to Australia. This is required in addition to the Covid-19 vaccine. A negative PCR test result certificate will still be valid if your flight is delayed longer than the 72-hour window, but if the flight is rescheduled or cancelled, you will need to take a new test no more than 72 hours before the new flight.

The Australian government regulates visas and exemptions, but state and territory governments regulate quarantine (and other inbound health related requirements). Therefore, even when you can leave Australia without an exemption, you must keep up to date with your state’s rules for your return.

From Monday, fully vaccinated returning Australians will not be required to quarantine in hotels or at home on arrival into NSW, Victoria and the ACT. Children under 12 will not be treated as unvaccinated.

If you arrive from overseas directly into another state, at this stage you will still be directed into mandatory hotel quarantine. Tasmania will open its borders on 15 December and South Australia has announced a slow reduction of restrictions starting on 23 November. Queensland has a very cautious reopening plan that will evolve as vaccination targets are reached. The Northern Territory has a home quarantine plan, for interstate arrivals, to begin around 23 November. Western Australia has not announced its reopening plan.

Where can you go?

As travel restrictions ease, Australians are showing the most interest in travelling to Fiji, Singapore, Thailand, Bali, the US and UK. Quarantine-free travel from New Zealand to Australia will resume from Monday.

From 1 December, Fiji is reopening its borders to fully vaccinated tourists (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Janssen), aged 18 and above, from Australia and a select group of countries , including the US and New Zealand. At check-in, everyone aged 12 and above must give proof of a negative RT-PCR result from a test taken within three days of departure. On arrival, all travellers must download careFIJI onto their phones and head straight to their hotel, where they will spend their first two days, with access to all hotel amenities. After a negative rapid antigen (swab) test, taken after 48 hours, they will have access to a range of tourist-appropriate areas throughout the country.

United States

The US has changed its vaccination requirements for non-US citizens entering the country. In the past, since Australia was considered a low-risk country for Covid-19, Australians did not have to be vaccinated to travel to the US. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) now states that, starting on 8 November, all non-US citizens aged 18 and above coming into the US by air must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before travel with any of the following Federal Drug Administration-approved vaccines: Pfizer/BioNtech Comirnaty, Moderna and Janssen; or World Health Organization Emergency Use Listing vaccines (including Australian-made AstraZeneca Vaxzevria).

All inbound air travellers aged two and older, regardless of citizenship, must show a negative Covid-19 test result. The timing of this test depends on vaccination status and age, something that is particularly relevant for travelling families. At check-in, fully vaccinated adults, and their accompanying children aged between two and 17, must give proof of a negative PCR result for Covid-19 from a test taken no more than three days before departure.

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Alternatively, you can provide documentation from a licensed healthcare provider showing recovery from Covid-19 in the 90 days preceding travel. No quarantine will be required, but the CDC will issue an order directing airlines to collect travellers’ contact details for a contact tracing system that is yet to be outlined. International travellers are also still recommended to get a test three to five days after arrival regardless of vaccination status, and some US states make this a requirement.

Vaccinated Australians will be able to travel to Singapore quarantine-free from 8 November. Starting on Monday you can apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass to enter as a short-term visitor under the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL). You must show proof you are fully vaccinated at least two weeks before travel (children under 12 travelling with family are exempt). You will also be required to take a PCR test on arrival at Singapore airport and remain in isolation until a negative result is received. You must have travel insurance that covers Covid-19 medical treatment and hospital costs. For the moment, only Singapore Airlines is operating VTL flights.

The UK recently scrapped its traffic light country system and will remove its red list of countries on Monday so that all fully vaccinated international travellers will no longer have to quarantine in a hotel. The UK recognises Australian Pfizer/BioNtech Comirnaty, Oxford/AstraZeneca and Moderna vaccines. Fully vaccinated travellers no longer need to show a negative test result before departing for the UK, although currently all airlines operating in and out of Australia are requiring passengers to take PCR tests before leaving. You must fill in a contact locator form before arriving in the UK and prebook a Covid-19 test to be taken before the end of day two after your arrival. Specific rules vary between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Thailand is a bit of a grey area because, while the country is opening to Australia and 45 other “low risk” nations on Monday, the current advice on the Smart Traveller site is at Level 3 (“Reconsider your need to travel”). There are currently limited direct flights to Thailand but Thai Airways has announced an increase in flights starting on 17 November as well as nonstop Sydney to Phuket flights three times a week and daily Sydney to Bangkok flights starting on 8 December. Things are changing fast, so it is worth checking for updates regularly.

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Fully vaccinated travellers (Australia’s Pfizer/BioNtech Comirnaty, Moderna and AstraZeneca Vaxzevria all approved) arriving by air will need to show proof of vaccination no less than 14 days before departure (children under 12 are exempt), a medical certificate with a negative result of a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure, and proof of a fully paid booking for their first night’s stay at government-approved hotels to wait for a negative result from a PCR test taken upon arrival. With negative results, travellers can go anywhere in Thailand. All travellers must register their details at the Thailand Travel Pass website at least seven days before departure and purchase a minimum per person US$50,000 travel insurance to cover medical expenses, including Covid-19 treatment.

Bali has recently opened to fully vaccinated travellers from 19 countries, who must quarantine in hotels for five days and follow strict visa requirements under new entry rules. Australia is not one of them, although there are indications that it will soon be added. But there are currently no direct flights from anywhere in Australia.

Potential disruptions

It is important to remember that most airlines are adding their own requirements in addition to those of destination countries. All are requiring mask-wearing in airports and for the duration of flights, except when you are eating. For flights to and from the US this applies to children as young as two. All airlines operating into and out of Australia are also requiring PCR tests and in some instances you may be asked to take a rapid antigen test requiring a negative result before you board. You also need to factor in the extra time and hassle with all the Covid-related checks while travelling.

Finding travel insurance that will cover Covid-related medical expenses overseas and cancellations due to Covid illness, not to mention lockdowns or government restrictions, is a monumental task. Suffice to say, there will likely be tears and unexpected costs involved.

Covid-related risks

You also need to factor in the risk of getting Covid-19 while travelling overseas and the costs involved of extending your stay in a hotel or managed facility, or, in the worst case, an ICU in a foreign hospital, until you can get a negative test and return to Australia.

And it is always possible that another international outbreak will occur while you are overseas and Australia will close its borders again. You will need enough resilience and a significant budget set aside to allow for an extended overseas sojourn.

For peace of mind, in these constantly changing circumstances, it may be worth using the services of a travel agent. They are not only across all the latest travel logistics and government requirements but are also equipped to help with refunds should you have to cancel or change your travel plans.

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International Travel Restrictions by Country

Find out where you can travel and covid-19 policies.

Select origin country, search destination or select a country on the map to see travel restrictions.

The travel status of individual countries can change suddenly, and we know it can be hard to stay on top of it all. That's why we're getting you the information you need to consider when planning travel. Learn about country-specific entry requirements such as the border status, COVID-19 testing requirements, and quarantine requirements. Many countries are reopening their borders for international travel. Find out which countries are open to vaccinated travellers.

Just enter your departure country above - the map will update to reflect countries' opening status and any entry requirements for air travellers. Before you book, be sure to double check your country's official government site.

Destinations you can travel to now

Netherlands, new zealand, philippines, south korea, united arab emirates, united kingdom, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Filter by region, status and more

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Albania.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Algeria.

American Samoa

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter American Samoa.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Angola.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Anguilla.

Antigua And Barbuda

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Antigua And Barbuda.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Argentina.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Armenia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Aruba.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Austria.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Azerbaijan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bahrain.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bangladesh.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Barbados.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belize.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Benin.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bermuda.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bhutan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bolivia.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Botswana.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brazil.

British Virgin Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the British Virgin Islands.

Brunei Darussalam

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brunei Darussalam.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bulgaria.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Burundi.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cambodia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cameroon.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Canada.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cape Verde.

Caribbean Netherlands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Caribbean Netherlands.

Cayman Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cayman Islands.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chad.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chile.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Comoros.

Cook Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cook Islands.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Costa Rica.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Croatia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Curaçao.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cyprus.

Czech Republic

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Czech Republic.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Denmark.

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Djibouti without restrictions.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Dominica.

Dominican Republic

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, need to quarantine to enter East Timor.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ecuador.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Egypt.

El Salvador

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter El Salvador.

Equatorial Guinea

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Equatorial Guinea.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eritrea.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Estonia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eswatini.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ethiopia.

Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Faroe Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Faroe Islands.

Federated States of Micronesia

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Federated States of Micronesia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Fiji.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Finland.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter France.

French Guiana

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Guiana.

French Polynesia

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Polynesia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gabon.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Gambia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Georgia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Germany.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ghana.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gibraltar.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greece.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greenland.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Grenada.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guadeloupe.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guam.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guatemala.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea.

Guinea-Bissau

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea-Bissau.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guyana.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Honduras.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hong Kong.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hungary.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Iceland.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter India.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Indonesia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ireland.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Italy.

Ivory Coast

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ivory Coast.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jamaica.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Japan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jersey.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jordan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kazakhstan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kenya.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kiribati.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kosovo.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kuwait.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kyrgyzstan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Laos.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Latvia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lesotho.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liberia.

Liechtenstein

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liechtenstein.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lithuania.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Luxembourg.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Macau.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Madagascar.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malawi.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malaysia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Maldives.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malta.

Marshall Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Marshall Islands.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Martinique.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritania.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritius.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mayotte.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mexico.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Moldova.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mongolia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montenegro.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montserrat.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mozambique.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Namibia.

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Nauru without restrictions.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nepal.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Netherlands.

New Caledonia

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Caledonia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Zealand.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Niger without restrictions.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nigeria.

North Macedonia

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter North Macedonia.

Northern Mariana Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Northern Mariana Islands.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Norway.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Oman.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Pakistan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Palau.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Panama.

Papua New Guinea

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Papua New Guinea.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Paraguay.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Peru.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Philippines.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Poland.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Portugal.

Puerto Rico

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Puerto Rico.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Qatar.

Republic of the Congo

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Republic of the Congo without restrictions.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Réunion.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Romania.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Rwanda.

Saint Barthélemy

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Barthélemy.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Saint Lucia

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Lucia.

Saint Martin

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Martin.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Samoa.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter São Tomé and Príncipe.

Saudi Arabia

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saudi Arabia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Senegal.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Serbia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Seychelles.

Sierra Leone

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sierra Leone.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Singapore.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovakia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovenia.

Solomon Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Solomon Islands.

South Africa

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Africa.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Korea.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Spain.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sri Lanka.

St. Maarten

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter St. Maarten.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sudan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Suriname.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sweden.

Switzerland

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Switzerland.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Taiwan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tajikistan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tanzania.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

The Bahamas

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter The Bahamas.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Togo.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tonga.

Trinidad and Tobago

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Trinidad and Tobago.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tunisia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Türkiye.

Turkmenistan

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Turkmenistan.

Turks and Caicos Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tuvalu.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uganda.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Arab Emirates.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Kingdom.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United States.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uruguay.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uzbekistan.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vanuatu.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vietnam.

Wallis and Futuna

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Wallis and Futuna.

Western Sahara

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Western Sahara.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zambia.

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zimbabwe.

How often is the data on this page updated?

We check for travel restriction information from government authorities daily and update the page any time we get new information. The following information regarding travel restrictions for each country is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.

How many countries are closed to visitors?

As of 11 Sep, 2 countries have completely restricted entry to non-citizens and 5 are open but require quarantine and/or a negative COVID test.

Where can I travel without COVID restrictions?

Currently you can travel from Australia to 197 countries without restrictions. Please check our map to learn more.

Are there any other types of travel restrictions besides COVID-19 tests and quarantines?

These are the two main types of restrictions or requirements needed to travel into another country. However, the COVID-19 testing options are continually widening as new methods are developed. Different countries may accept results from different or multiple test types, so be sure to check the individual country's specific requirements.

What should I do if I get COVID-19 while in another country?

If you get COVID-19 while in another country, follow the local authority's recommendations. These may include hospitalisation, self-isolating and testing in that country. Be sure to contact your travel insurance company and travel provider as well and inform them of your situation.

What should I do if the borders of the country I am visiting close?

Depending on your home country, you may need to change your departure date and return home as soon as possible. If that's the case, contact your travel provider to find the earliest departure.

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Ask a Travel Nerd: Can I Travel Without a COVID Vaccine?

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Domestic travel for unvaccinated travelers

International travel for unvaccinated travelers, final thoughts on traveling without a covid vaccine.

Between constantly changing entry requirements, mandated quarantines, testing rules and vaccine provisions, traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t easy. If you’re not vaccinated, it's even harder. Some countries flat-out don’t admit unvaccinated travelers, while others require a mandatory quarantine and extra tests.

If you plan on traveling and aren't vaccinated, here’s what you need to know.

As recently as Jan. 12, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend delaying travel until you’re fully vaccinated.

Requirements are up to each city and state. For example, while Illinois doesn’t have statewide restrictions, its recommendations differ based on the daily COVID-19 case rates of the state the traveler is arriving from. Unvaccinated travelers arriving from states with higher case rates are encouraged to secure a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel to Illinois. At the city level, unvaccinated travelers going to Chicago are asked to get tested for COVID-19 before and after arrival and to quarantine upon arrival.

Meanwhile, all travelers 16 and older who enter California via Los Angeles International Airport, Van Nuys Airport or Los Angeles Union Station are required to fill out a City of Los Angeles Traveler Form, agreeing to follow CDC travel guidance — or face up to a $500 fine.

Other states may be more flexible and have no recommendations or requirements related to vaccination, quarantine, forms or testing for visitors.

Tips for traveling domestically without a vaccine

If the required time frame for getting a COVID-19 test ahead of travel is less than 24 hours, check if an urgent care center near you offers a rapid results option. In addition, check if a PCR and/or antigen test will be accepted. Generally, results from an antigen test can be provided faster. If you have insurance, the test may be covered.

Before heading to your intended destination, check the city and state requirements and recommendations, because they may differ (like Chicago and Illinois). Find out if your destination has any special requirements based on the state you’re arriving from.

Some businesses require proof of vaccination for entry. Be prepared to be turned away from restaurants, bars, stores and other establishments if this is the case.

Check if there are any ongoing testing requirements. For example, unvaccinated travelers staying in Puerto Rico longer than a week must submit weekly COVID-19 test results.

» Learn more: The majority of Americans plan to travel this year, according to recent NerdWallet study

Traveling internationally may present a greater number of obstacles, especially due to different systems and a potential language barrier. Some countries don't allow unvaccinated travelers to enter, period . For example, travel to the majority of European countries is possible only to those who are vaccinated. If you’re not vaccinated, make sure the country you want to visit will allow you entry.

In addition, before returning to the U.S., you’re required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of the flight's departure. While abroad, you’ll need to go to a COVID-19 testing center. Unlike getting tested in the U.S., COVID-19 tests abroad aren't covered by insurance, so you'll need to budget for the out-of-pocket cost .

Furthermore, you should book your accommodations wisely. Does the hotel you want to stay at allow unvaccinated guests? Will you be able to dine at the hotel restaurant? Can you use the spa or gym facilities? These are important questions you’ll need to consider before booking an international hotel stay.

Scrutinize your access to activities and other places you’d like to visit during your trip, too, like restaurants and museums. On my recent trip to Germany, I had to show my proof of vaccination and identification in every bar, restaurant, shop and hotel I entered.

If you’re unvaccinated, you may be refused entry to all these places, which can ruin your trip.

Tips for traveling internationally without a vaccine

Get travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason coverage since entry requirements are changing constantly. What happens if you book a nonrefundable flight and hotel, and a week before your departure, your destination stops allowing in unvaccinated travelers? If you have travel insurance with CFAR, you’ll be able to cancel your trip and get your nonrefundable deposits back so long as changes aren’t made at the last minute. For example, with CFAR coverage from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, "you may only be eligible if you purchase CFAR at the time of your base policy purchase, insure your full trip cost, and cancel more than 48 hours prior to departure," according to the company's website.

Confirm entry eligibility for your must-have experiences, like restaurants, museums, shopping malls or bars and clubs. Double-check that your hotel will allow you entry as well.

Research COVID-19 testing sites in the area before departure. Will you need to travel far to get your test? Consider travel time when making a test appointment.

Check if there's an app that your destination country uses that will accept your pre-departure negative COVID-19 test result. This step could make it easier to visit any bars, hotels, shops, restaurants and museums you’d like to check out.

Traveling domestically and internationally may pose a new set of challenges for those who are unvaccinated. Be sure to keep up to date with the latest requirements to make sure that your trip goes smoothly. International travel may result in many more difficulties, so if you’re not prepared to deal with all the uncertainties of being abroad, consider travel to a location within the U.S.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee:   Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards:  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card  

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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Do I need a Vaccine to travel to Australia?

Please note:

Travelers entering and departing Australia are currently not subject to any COVID-19-related requirements by the Australian Government.

Are Vaccines Required to Travel to Australia?

Like most countries, Australia recommends that travelers arriving in the country on inbound international flights have up-to-date inoculations .

It’s essential to check for government health updates to determine any health risks or increased risks of certain diseases in the country before your trip.

This information changes often, so we recommend checking it on dates close to it. According to the CDC , there are various vaccines you need to get before traveling to Australia and other precautions you may need to take.

Do you require a travel declaration or tests to travel to Australia?

No, travelers visiting Australia do not require a negative pre-departure test, nor do they need to fill out the Australia Travel Declaration.

However, all travelers still need to apply for the Australia Incoming Passenger Card (IPC).

Endemic diseases in Australia

There are some endemic diseases in Australia that travelers will be at an increased risk of contracting while in the county. Since March 2022, this includes Japanese encephalitis, as parts of eastern and southeastern Australia currently have an outbreak.

The country also currently has several infectious diseases within its borders, including chickenpox, influenza, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, shingles, hepatitis B, and yellow fever.

Immunization against these diseases is highly recommended , and officials may request proof of vaccination on arrival in Australia, depending on your nationality and which country you are traveling to Australia from.

There are also a number of non-vaccine preventable diseases that travelers will need to take measures to avoid. These include leptospirosis, dengue fever, Ross River fever, TB and Hantavirus.

Summary Tables of Australia Vaccine Requirements

To help you ensure you will meet all the vaccination requirements to enter Australia, we’ve created two tables to consolidate and summarize all the relevant vaccination information below.

Required travel vaccinations for Australia

Routine vaccinations for Australia

Non-Vaccine Preventable Diseases

If you have more questions about the Australian visa requirements, you can check here .

You can also contact our 24-hour customer service team if you have any further questions.

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

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Australia Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Canada to Australia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to australia, find stays in australia, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, united arab emirates, united kingdom, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Australia from Canada?

Most visitors from Canada, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Australia.

Can I travel to Australia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Australia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Australia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Australia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Australia?

Visitors from Canada are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Australia.

Can I travel to Australia without quarantine?

Travellers from Canada are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Australia?

Mask usage in Australia is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Australia?

Restaurants in Australia are open. Bars in Australia are .

Fully vaccinated Australians can soon travel to several countries without needing to Quarantine. Here's where you can go

Australia's international border is reopening on Monday, allowing fully vaccinated travellers to leave the country freely for the first time in more than 570 days.

However, initially at least, the world won't be their oyster.

The Department of Foreign Affairs says seven countries have so far given the green light for fully vaccinated Australians to travel there, without the need to quarantine as soon as our border reopens: 

• The United Kingdom
• The United States of America
• South Africa 

Thailand has also announced its border will reopen to tourists on November 1, however, travellers will need to spend their first night in a government-approved quarantine hotel.

Singapore will allow quarantine-free travel from November 8, under a "travel lane" arrangement, and for those looking for a tropical escape closer to home, Fiji will welcome tourists from December 1, although visitors will have to self-isolate for two days upon arrival. 

Travellers will generally need to show proof of vaccination plus a negative COVID-19 test, as well as complying with the usual visa requirements.

Getting out may be the easy part

Clearing the international border is the first hurdle. When returning home, Australians will face a patchwork of domestic border controls.

New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT are scrapping all quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated international arrivals from November 1, but other states are moving more cautiously, still mandating quarantine at home or in a hotel for up to 14 days.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison had announced the border would reopen and overnight the government lifted its ban on international travel , removing the final hurdle for Australians looking to book an overseas trip.

Since March last year, Australians have been banned from leaving the country without seeking an exemption from the government. 

"On Monday, Australians will be taking off again," Mr Morrison told Parliament.

"Australians will be taking off as the international restrictions on travel for vaccinated Australian residents and citizens is lifted, and there's more than 500,000 Australians who have already downloaded their international vaccination certificate." 

Mr Morrison said he expected fully vaccinated foreigners would be allowed to enter Australia by the end of the year, under a staged reopening of the border. 

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• Federal Government
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Australia Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Malaysia to Australia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to australia, find stays in australia, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, new zealand, philippines, south korea, the bahamas, united kingdom, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Australia from Malaysia?

Most visitors from Malaysia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Australia.

Can I travel to Australia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Malaysia can enter Australia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Australia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Malaysia can enter Australia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Australia?

Visitors from Malaysia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Australia.

Can I travel to Australia without quarantine?

Travellers from Malaysia are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Australia?

Mask usage in Australia is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Australia?

Restaurants in Australia are open. Bars in Australia are .