Who can travel to australia?

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.

Normal Precautions

There are no COVID-19 restrictions in place for travel to Australia from Ireland. There is no requirement to present certificates of vaccination/testing for COVID-19 or to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration.

Masks are still required on flights travelling to Australia. It is important to remember that airlines, vessel operators and other countries may have specific requirements that travellers need to comply with.

Each state and territory in Australia has its own requirements that you will need to comply with. If you are planning to travel to Australia, you should check the requirements of the state or territory you are travelling to. Requirements could include COVID-19 testing after you arrive in Australia or vaccination requirements to visit certain venues or work in certain occupations.

Please ensure your visa is granted before travelling to Australia. To check Australia’s visa requirements, see: Explore visa options

For full details on entering Australia, please refer to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.

Irish citizens in Australia are advised to register their details.

The best help is often close at hand so if you have problems, try talking to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.

A Reciprocal Health Agreement is in place between the governments of Ireland and Australia. This agreement provides for free emergency care in an Australian public hospital for Irish citizens. It is important to note that the agreement only covers people who are legally in Australia on certain visa classes (student visas are not included).

This agreement is limited to emergency situations and is not a replacement for medical insurance. It does not cover ambulance costs which, given the size of Australia and the frequent use of air ambulances, can be significant. It does not cover prescription costs other than for patients while in hospital. Equally it does not cover outpatient costs for follow-up (dressings, physiotherapy, etc.).

It does not cover medical repatriation to Ireland.

Read further information on the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement between Ireland & Australia.

Australia’s current national terrorism threat level is ‘probable’ (see the Australian national terrorism threat advisory system). Attacks could be indiscriminate.

From 12:01am on Saturday 11 March, people travelling to Australia from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, are not required to show evidence of a negative pre-departure test for COVID-19.  For more information, see the Department of Health and Aged Care​.

The Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border Force provide advice for people seeking to enter or leave Australia.

For more information see:

People who require a visa should ensure their visa is granted before travelling to Australia. To check Australia’s visa requirements, see: Explore visa options​

The Australian Border Force provides further advice for people entering or leaving Australia by sea​.

Australian citizens planning to travel overseas are encouraged to check current travel advice by visiting Smartraveller​.

The Department of Health provides health advice on international travel and COVID-19​.

Each state and territory in Australia has its own requirements that you will need to comply with. If you are planning to travel to Australia, you should check the requirements of the state or territory you are travelling to. Requirements could include COVID-19 testing after you arrive in Australia or vaccination requirements to visit certain venues or work in certain occupations.

For more information see State and territory information.

Everyone in Australia can get a COVID-19 vaccine free of charge. International travellers who arrive into Australia are encouraged to access Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination program.

Alcohol and Drugs:

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  See our webpage for further information.

Potential Health Screening: The 1908 Quarantine Law gives Australian authorities broad powers to prevent the entry of diseases and other materials into Australia that might pose a threat to its welfare. In the event of a public health emergency involving a communicable disease, passengers arriving in Australia may be subject to strict health screening measures, including testing, monitoring, and assessment for possible quarantine.

Customs: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural goods, including plants and food products, and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals and pets.

Contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington, D.C., or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, and visit the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture website for additional information.

Natural Disasters:

Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. These events are difficult to predict and can result in loss of life. You should be aware of conditions around you and monitor local weather and safety reports so you can take appropriate action when needed.

See our Natural Disasters pages for information on storm preparedness and response.

Safety Concerns:

Outdoor Recreation/Adventure

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Australia. Australian federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

As of December 9, 2017 Australia defines marriage as “the union between two people.” Australia grants temporary and permanent visas to same-sex partners of Australian citizens.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.