International travel and COVID-19

Tijana 16/8/2022 3 Min. reading time

Au Pair in Australia: Au Pair in Australia:International travel and COVID-19

Australia's border is open and has been for over 6 months after locking down most of the country for almost 2 years. 

COVID-19 testing

You do not need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test to meet Australian inbound travel requirements. Some countries, airlines and vessel operators may require a pre-departure test result at check-in before you can board your flight or ship. Check the entry requirements of the country you are travelling or transiting through, and your airline or vessel operator’s requirements. 

Vaccination and masks

Masks are mandatory on inbound international flights. You must also meet the mask requirements of the airline or cruise vessel you travel with. To reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and influenza, the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) strongly recommends mask-wearing in indoor settings, especially where physical distancing is not possible.

Check your  destination country's  local public health orders for COVID-19 vaccination and mask requirements during transit and on arrival. You should also be aware of the mask-wearing policies of your airline or vessel operator, and the Australian state or territory you are traveling to. 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is as important as a valid passport. Make sure transit destinations are included in your insurance, as well as any other add-ons you might need, like cruise-specific insurance. Some destinations also require travelers to hold travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Learn more about travel insurance on the Smartraveller website, and see the CHOICE travel insurance buying guide: COVID-19 edition.

Staying safe while overseas

COVID-19 continues to pose a health risk overseas. It is important that you consider how you can best protect yourself and your family from COVID-19 infection. People who are unwell or close contacts of people who have been unwell with COVID-19 should delay travel. 

Wearing masks whilst travelling is strongly recommended. You should also undertake appropriate hand and respiratory hygiene, and physically distance yourself from others where possible. 

Unvaccinated Australians are strongly discouraged from travelling internationally due to the health risks. 

You must ensure you meet the requirements of the airline or vessel operator you are travelling with and any countries you transit through. 

If you're thinking of travelling overseas, it's important you understand the risk of contracting COVID-19 at your destination. This includes any financial implications this may have for you and those travelling with you. Some travel insurers now offer limited cover for COVID-19. 

You can minimise your risk of becoming unwell by making sure your travel vaccinations are up to date, including for COVID-19. When travelling: 

  • follow local public health orders and health advice 
  • monitor for symptoms 
  • wear masks as advised and in appropriate settings 
  • practise good hand hygiene 
  • get tested if you have symptoms
  • know what to do if you test positive while travelling