Travel Restrictions

Travel to Australia is highly restricted at the moment. Due to Covid the borders are basically closed. There are a small number of individual exemptions, but these are only for extreme circumstances, and quarantine still applies.

This restrictions will change as the Covid situation changes, and perhaps as our understanding of the situation and how to deal with it improves.

Escorting a Minor back to Australia

If a young child who is a permanent citizen or permanent resident returns to Australia they may be accompanied by a guardian. Each child under 2 maybe accompanied by one guardian. Several children over the age of 2 from the same family are only permitted one guardian for the family group. Additional guardians may be permitted if there are sufficient medical reasons.

Temporary Visa Holders leaving Australia

Temporary Visa holders can leave at any time to return to their own country. But they will not usually be allowed to return unless there are exceptional circumstances. Their home country may have restrictions on re-entry, which need to be a taken into account.

If the temporary Visa holder intends to return to Australia they must apply for an inwards exemption before they leave. This will only be granted it they are:
– Travelling for essential business reasons.
– Visiting a relative who is ill, or attending a close family funeral.
– They need medical treatment in their own country not available here.

Some General Exemptions to the Closed Boarder

– All Australian citizens or permanent residents may return to Australia.
– Immediate family members of citizens or permanent residents may enter the country with proof of the relationship.
– New Zealand citizen who is usually a resident in Australia can enter.
– A diplomat and immediate family with 995 Visas.
– Airline and maritime crew.
– Individuals with Business Innovation and investment Visa, subclass 188.

Some Individual Exemptions

– Individuals providing specialist medical services for the Covid situation.
– Medical students in the last 3 years so their degree who have a hospital placement.
– Some students completing year 11 or 12.
– Students in final years of advanced degrees with research grants. Evidence must be provided.
– Travel for compassionate reasons.
– Planned marriage to an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.

You must lodge for an exemption at least 2 weeks, but not more than 2 months, before the planned travel.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No individual should take, or refrain from taking, any action solely based on the material contained in this article. While we aim to offer accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on the date of receipt or in the future. If you require more information or seek relevant legal advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our office.