Travelling to Australia in 2024; The Complete Guide
Visas and Entry Requirements – Meeting Government Standards
Australia has stringent entry requirements to ensure a safe and secure environment for its citizens. Most foreign travelers must have a visa for Australia – the type of visa required depends on the nationality of the visitor.
Australia introduced the electronic visa system in 2018, offering two types of electronic travel authorizations, i.e., ETA or eVisitor visa.
The only difference between these visas is the list of eligible countries. In both cases, the approved visas are linked directly with the applicant’s passport and can be used for numerous entries to Australia lasting up to 3 months each. The validity of the electronic visa is 12 months.
Currently, to enter Australia in 2023, one needs to be a holder of a valid passport, and a valid visa, as well as complete and sign an Incoming Passenger Card. The last document is distributed during the flight to Australia by the airline’s crew.
Australia no longer requires travelers to take a pre-departure coronavirus test to enter or just transit Australia, no matter the vaccination status of the traveler.
Those who will be just transiting Australia should check the testing requirements applicable to their final destination or other countries they plan to transit to apart from Australia. Also, particular airlines may have introduced certain additional requirements.
In July 2022, the Australian authorities lifted the requirement to complete a Digital Passenger Declaration for air travelers, and Maritime Trave Declaration for those entering the country by sea. Declaring the COVID-19 vaccination status is no longer mandatory either.
Nevertheless, you should bear in mind that the entry requirements can vary between certain Australian states and territories. Moreover, the entry regulations may change at short notice.
Where to Go in Australia – Popular Cities and Towns
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Sydney – Sydney is the most popular city in Australia, with its iconic views from the harbor bridge and opera house, lively nightlife scene, world-class shopping centers, and an array of cultural attractions. Visit Darling Harbour for spectacular views of fireworks on New Year’s Eve, or take a cruise along the harbor to witness one of the largest natural harbors in the world. The beaches here are also a major draw; Bondi Beach is renowned for its surf, while Manly Beach is great for swimming and catching fish.
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Melbourne – The capital of Victoria has long been called the cultural center of Australia, with its strong music scene, fine-dining restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. Explore the funky laneways in Melbourne’s CBD or the many gardens, including Royal Botanic Gardens and Alexandra Gardens. Visit St Kilda beach for a dip in the water or to watch sunsets over Port Phillip Bay. And don’t miss out on all the incredible street art around town!
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Brisbane – Queensland’s capital city, is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations thanks to its subtropical climate and outdoor activities like stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking at South Bank Parklands. The city also has great nightlife, trendy cafes and bars, and world-class shopping at Queen Street Mall.
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Perth – Western Australia’s capital is known for its laidback atmosphere and stunning views of the Swan River estuary. Head to the nearby Rottnest Island to explore the white sand beaches or take a stroll along Kings Park overlooking the city skyline. Perth is also home to some of Australia’s best wineries, with many located in the nearby Swan Valley region.
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Bunbury – Bunbury is an up-and-coming town on Western Australia’s coastline, just two hours south of Perth. It’s home to beautiful beaches like Koombana Bay, where you can go swimming, fishing, and even whale-watching. The town also has fantastic wineries and plenty of galleries and museums to explore.