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Consular Services Charter

How can you help us to help you?

Many problems encountered overseas can be avoided if some simple precautions are taken. Follow our Top 10 travel tips to be well on your way to having a hassle-free journey.

  1. Check the latest travel advice for your destination at smartraveller.gov.au before you go. Subscribe to receive free email notification each time the travel advice is updated.
  2. Take out travel insurance to cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities, like adventure sports, in which you plan to participate.
  3. Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online at smartraveller.gov.au or at the local Australian embassy, high commission or consulate once you arrive so we can contact you in an emergency.
  4. Obey the law of the country you’re visiting.Don’t expect to be treated differently to the locals just because you’re Australian, even if local laws appear harsh or unfair by Australian standards.
  5. Make sure you have the right visas for the countries you are visiting or transiting. Remember: a visa doesn’t guarantee entry. Visa, customs and quarantine conditions change regularly.
  6. Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers’ cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone at home.
  7. Consult your doctor on any recommended vaccinations and the necessary health precautions to take. Also find out about taking medication overseas - certain medicines aren’t allowed in some countries.
  8. Make sure your passport has a minimum six months validity. Carry extra passport photos just in case your passport is lost or stolen and you need to replace it while away.
  9. Keep in contact with friends and family back home and give them a copy of your itinerary so they know where you are.
  10. Check to see if you’re regarded as a national of the country you plan to visit, and whether dual nationality will have any implications for your travel plans.

More about the Consular Services Charter