With the coronavirus pandemic still looming, countries around the world have been enforcing strict measures in order to protect their citizens. Due to the current situation in Australia, including state and territory border restrictions, business closures and social distancing requirements, all international visitors are encouraged to depart if it is possible to do so.
Countries around the world are implementing their own border restrictions in response to COVID-19 and the international air network is reducing in capacity. This may impact your ability to enter another country. Currently, travelers may be able to re-enter Australia only if they meet entry conditions. However, please be advised that these requirements are under constant review and may change at any time.
If you are an Australian citizens or permanent residents you cannot travel overseas due to COVID-19 restrictions. But if there are extenuating circumstances that require you to leave Australia, you may be able to apply online for an exemption to travel if you fall under one of the following categories:
- Your travel is as part of the response to the COVID-19 outbreak, including the provision of aid
- Your travel is essential for the conduct of critical industries and business (including export and import industries)
- You are traveling to receive urgent medical treatment that is not available in Australia
- You are traveling on urgent and unavoidable personal business
- Compassionate or humanitarian grounds
- Your travel is in the national interest.
You will also be required to provide the following evidence to be granted a travel exemption:
- Proof of ID
- Marriage certificates
- Birth certificates
- Death certificates
- Proof of relationship (for example, shared tenancy agreement, joint bank account etc.)
- Visa status
- Letter from a doctor or hospital indicating why the travel is necessary
- Letter from an employer indicating why the travel is necessary or the work undertaken is critical
- Letter from a related business or company
- Any other proof you may have to support your claims.
But note: All evidence supporting a travel exemption claim must translated into English. And you should apply for an exemption as soon as possible —at least 48 hours before your intended departure time. If granted an exemption, you must take evidence of that exemption to the airport.
There are certain categories of individuals who do not need to apply for an exemption. These categories involve those who are:
- Ordinarily resident in a country other than Australia
- Airline and maritime crew and associated safety workers
- A New Zealand citizen holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa
- Engaged in the day-to-day conduct of outbound and inbound freight
- Associated with essential work at offshore facilities
- Traveling on official government business, including members of the Australian Defence Force.
Our Registered Migration Agents at Migration Centre of Australia have been in the migration industry for many years and have helped thousands of clients onshore and offshore. We have trained thousands of Registered Migration Agents and Lawyers in the migration industry and we are trusted providers for our services. If you are planning to leave Australia, or you wish to apply for any type of visa during this time, or you want to know more about your visa options, don’t wait any longer and contact us today on (02) 4626 1002. If you wish to leave Australia, there is a limited time frame in which you must lodge for an exemption claim. Alternatively, you can send us an email at info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au and we will be more than ready to assist you.
