Guide for Visa Holders Leaving and Entering Australia Over the Holidays

Before your schedule becomes inundated with holiday packing, shopping and excitement, you must ensure you’re updated on your visa travel requirements. 

The last thing you want is to arrive at the airport, ready for your trip, only to find that you cannot travel outside Australia. To ensure this doesn’t happen to you, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guideline on requirements for exiting and reentering Australia on a visa.

What Do Visa Holders Need to Leave and Enter Australia?

Visiting and leaving the country over the holidays can be overwhelming for Australian visa holders. There’s much to consider, such as vaccination requirements, declaration cards, and health and travel insurance. To help you streamline this process, here are some of the most essential requirements for visa holders visiting or leaving Australia:

Requirements for Entering Australia on a Visa

Here’s what you need for entering Australia:

• Valid passport: You must hold a current or up-to-date passport. If it’s expired, renew it before applying for a visa and travelling to Australia. 
• Valid visa: Whether you have a tourist, student or work visa, it must be valid or issued for the time you plan on staying in Australia. You cannot enter on an expired visa.
• Health and travel Insurance: While health and travel insurance are not mandatory, they are highly recommended. Insurance can ensure you are covered in a medical or other emergency. 
• Character requirements: To get a valid visa to Australia, you must complete a police clearance in your country and pass a character test. 
• Proof of funds: Some visas can require bank statements and records showing that you have sufficient funds to travel to Australia. 

Requirements for Leaving Australia on a Visa 

Here’s what you need for leaving Australia:

• Valid visa: Ensure you have a valid visa allowing multiple entries into Australia. 
• Up-to-date passport: You must have an up-to-date passport whether travelling to your birth country or a different country. 
• Compliance with visa conditions: You must comply with your visa requirements regarding the length of time you can stay outside Australia.
• Travel documents: Ensure you have all necessary flight tickets and documentation for your next destination. 

Tips for Temporary Visa Holders Leaving and Reentering Australia 

Here are some tips for temporary visa holders leaving Australia for short overseas trips: 

1. Check Visa Conditions

Understand the conditions for leaving and reentering Australia based on your visa type. Some visas may restrict the time you can spend outside the country. Double-checking this information can help you avoid complications when returning from your trip.

2. Photocopy Important Documents

Whether leaving or reentering Australia, make copies of essential documents like your visa, passport, flight details, accommodations, and insurance. Some border checks can require copies of various information. They can also come in handy in cases where you lose your original documents. 

3. Learn About Your Destination

Know your requirements for entering your next destination. For example, if you’re travelling to a Schengen state, ensure you have the correct visa before boarding your flight from Australia.

In most cases, border security only allows travellers with the appropriate documentation to travel to a destination. It’s also vital to research safety requirements and potential risks or restrictions for travelling to certain countries. 

4. Insure Yourself

Some countries require that you have sufficient travel and health insurance before visiting. Check which travel insurances various countries allow and disallow and ensure you have appropriate cover. When returning to Australia, keep copies of your health insurance just in case it’s required on arrival.  

5. Plan for Delays

Before departing from Australia, remember to arrive at the airport on time. International check-ins, border security, and customs processes can be lengthy. Get to the airport at least three hours before your international flight to stay ahead of customs procedures and potential delays.  

6. Notify Relevant Personnel

Whether employed or a student in Australia, notify relevant people like your employer or lecturer of your travel plans. Keeping them in the loop can help prevent misunderstandings in circumstances like travel restrictions and visa issues prohibiting you from returning home.

7. Avoid Legal Issues

While on your holiday, it’s essential to maintain good character and avoid legal issues that could hinder your return to Australia. 

8. Stay Updated

Australia does not prohibit travel to other countries but can in various situations. If your destination becomes unsafe, travelling there might be banned. 

Travel restrictions may also be imposed in instances where your place of travel has a contagious medical outbreak. In these cases, entering back into Australia can be challenging. Stay updated with current affairs and avoid travelling to areas with severe situations. 

9. Get Professional Advice

If you need more clarification about the requirements for travelling on your visa, get professional help. Various certified immigration specialists can help you understand what is required for your travel. They provide expert advice and recommendations and facilitate getting a valid Australian visa. 

Other Important Information for International Passengers Entering and Leaving Australia

As an International citizen entering and exiting Australia on a visa, it can be challenging to keep up with the various changes to travel document requirements. Here’s some of the latest information to ensure a smooth experience.

• Vaccination status: According to current legislation, international passengers entering and leaving Australia do not need to provide evidence of their vaccination status. 
• Digital declaration card: Visitors entering Australia do not need a Digital Passenger or Maritime Travel Declaration.
• Customs regulations: Australia has strict customs laws, and staying updated on what you can and cannot bring into the country is essential.  

FAQs About Travelling to and From Australia On A Visa

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about travelling to and from Australia on a visa: 

1. Do permanent residents need a visa to return to Australia? Permanent residents can require a relevant resident return visa to enter Australia after travel. 
2. Do you go through customs when leaving Australia? You must go through a customs and border security check when departing Australia. 
3. Does Australia still have departure cards? As of 2017, passengers do not have to complete a departure card. 
4. How long can you be out of Australia on a permanent resident visa? As long as your visa remains valid, you can travel for as long as you like within five years from the date it was issued. 

Get Advice From the Experts at Australia Migrate 

When planning your overseas holiday, keeping up with visa requirements for exiting and reentering Australia might be the last thing on your list. Fortunately, Australia Migrate stays updated with the latest visa regulations, policy changes, and trends, so you don’t have to.

Our team of experienced immigration and visa specialists advise on everything you need to enjoy a smooth transition into and out of Australia. Whether you need guidance for travelling on your visa or want to start your visa application process, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Contact us online today to learn more about our services.