COVID-19: Trying to get home

This section has advice for Australians overseas who are trying to return home to Australia.

Returning to Australia from overseas is still challenging. There are caps on the numbers of passengers coming into Australian airports from overseas. We are working hard to get as many Australians home as possible. If you're overseas and wish to come home, be prepared for delays and disruptions to your travel.

• Registering with DFAT
• Facilitated commercial flights
• Overseas financial assistance
• Re-entry and quarantine measures

Who do I contact?

• For information on available flights to Australia, contact individual airlines or your travel agent. Commercial flights continue to be available in most destinations and are the best option for returning Australia.
• For questions about visas and other entry and exit requirements for the destination you're in, contact the relevant local immigration authorities. If you're unsure who to contact, look in the Travel advice for your location.
• For up-to-date advice on local conditions, check the website of your nearest Australian embassy or high commission and follow them closely on social media.
• Subscribe to the travel advisories for the destinations you're in as well as any you may be transiting through to receive important travel advice updates.
• If you're receiving an Australian Government payment while overseas, you may be eligible to request an extension so that you continue to receive your payment until you're able to return to Australia. Contact Services Australia to discuss your situation.

Need help?

We know this is a very stressful time for those trying to come home. We encourage you to be patient, follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19.

If you need urgent assistance or advice about local conditions, contact the nearest embassy or high commission.

If your situation becomes life-threatening or you have very serious concerns for your welfare, call the Consular Emergency Centre in Australia on +61 2 6261 3305.

For non-urgent general enquiries, email smartraveller@dfat.gov.au.

Read more:

• Find our information about how to stay safe while you're away
• Read the Consular Services Charter to learn how DFAT can and can't help
• See our information on medical assistance overseas
• Read about taking care of your mental health overseas
• See how to stay safe if you're travelling by boat

See also

• COVID-19 and the border (Department of Home Affairs)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) advice for travellers (Department of Health)
• Foreign embassies and consulates in Australia