COVID-19 and travel
Do not go overseas. A travel ban is in place.
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Travel advice in challenging times
Providing Australians with the latest information and advice to stay safe overseas
Where are you going?
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
28 April 2020: All overseas travel is currently banned, with few exceptions. If you’re overseas and want to return, we continue to urge you to do so as soon as possible while flights are available. Where there aren’t options, we’re working to make flights available for you. If you can't leave or prefer to stay where you are, make plans for an extended stay.
Australia's border restrictions
From 11:59pm Saturday 28 March, all international travellers arriving in Australia regardless of nationality or point of departure must complete self-isolation for 14 days in designated facilities before they can go home. Self-isolation must happen in your city of arrival into Australia, no matter if you arrive by plane or cruise ship.
What to do when you can't get home
It’s stressful and frightening if you can’t get out of the country you’re in due to border closures. We suggest you continue to check with local authorities about available flights, however you may have to wait it out in that country until departure arrangements are made. Here’s our advice for what to do if you can’t leave the country you’re in.
Consular services explained
The Australian Government provides consular services for Australians overseas. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are working hard to provide advice and assistance to Australians in need. In some places our ability to provide consular services may be limited.
News and updates
28 Apr 2020
If you’re planning your flight home, you can still transit through Kuala Lumpur, Doha, New York, Paris, London or Tokyo.
28 Apr 2020
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Australia’s embassies, high commissions and consulates have had to adjust to local regulations on social distancing and self-isolation. Our ability to provide consular services may be limited due to restrictions on our movement.
08 Jan 2020
The Pacific cyclone season is usually between October and May. During this period, even small tropical storms can develop into major cyclones. Their direction and strength can change with little warning. Cyclones lead to landslides, mudslides and flash flooding causing extreme damage to infrastructure. This can cut off communications and access to transportation, emergency assistance, medical care, and food and water.
If you're in New Zealand and want to leave we recommend you do so now while commercial options are available. Follow the Australian High Commission New Zealand on social media for regular updates.
If you're an Australian normally resident in New Zealand you can return but you'll be required to isolate for 14 days in either quarantine or a managed isolation facility. If you're in New Zealand, minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Follow the advice of local authorities including observing the lockdown period and stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe and well.
COVID-19 advice for travellers
As more countries close their borders or introduce travel restrictions, overseas travel is becoming more complex and difficult. Read our COVID-19 advice for Australians overseas or considering travel at this time.
Medical assistance overseas
If you're overseas and need medical care, you may face unexpected challenges. Read our advice on what to do if you get unwell while overseas.
Do you need a visa?
You may need to get a visa to enter a foreign country. For some countries you must apply in advance. In other countries you can apply on arrival.
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