Planning to spend the holidays overseas this year? Between booking flights, finding the perfect Airbnb, and organising your out-of-office, it’s easy to forget one of the most important parts of international travel—making sure you’re Immigration-ready.
Whether you’re a citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder, a few simple checks now can save you from stressful surprises at the airport. Before you pack your bags, here are five essential things every traveller must confirm before leaving Australia.
1. Is your passport valid?
This includes Australian Citizens! Most airlines require at least 6 months’ validity on a passport to allow you to fly. Some countries also require this 6-month period, while others require blank pages to enter stamps and visas.
It is important to note that Australian Citizens must travel on an Australian passport. If you have attended your Citizenship Ceremony then you need to obtain an Australian passport before departing Australia. Visit the Australian Passport Office for details on urgent processing.
2. Is your Australian visa valid?
Permanent residents should note that the travel authority on the visa is only valid for 5 years from the date of approval. While you can remain in Australia forever, if you were to leave after the visa had expired, you would lose your permanent residency status. To ensure smooth travels, you must first secure a Resident Return Visa.
3. Does your Bridging Visa have travel rights?
Bridging Visas A, C, and E do not have any international travel rights. Bridging Visa B will have travel rights for a set period only, so you need to ensure this covers your intended trip.
Those on a Bridging Visa A or already on a Bridging Visa B can apply for a new Bridging Visa B to cover their intended trip. Immigration advises applying for this at least 2 weeks prior to your travel.
Bridging Visa C or E holders cannot apply for travel rights. Departing Australia means you will not be able to return without first securing another type of visa for entry.
4. Do you need a visa to enter the country?
Some countries will grant a visa upon entry, while others require you to apply before you go. Check Smartraveller for advice on destinations and links to foreign Embassies in Australia which can guide you through the visa process.
5. Have you secured your Travel Insurance?
Not only is it a requirement for entry for certain countries, but it’s also the smartest investment you can make for your holiday! Covering medical expenses, theft, loss of luggage, and cancellations, holding insurance means that if you have an accident or become unwell overseas, you won’t be facing a bill of tens of thousands of dollars. Choice.com.au has a great guide on selecting travel insurance for your trip.
Travel with confidence
With the holiday season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to double-check your documents and avoid any last-minute issues. A few minutes of preparation today can save you missed flights, unexpected visa problems, or delays at the border.
If you’re unsure about your visa status or need help understanding your travel rights, the team at AVIE is here to support you. We help migrants travel with confidence—during the holiday season and all year round.
Safe travels, and enjoy your well-earned break!