COVID-19 (Novel-Coronavirus) 

On 19 March 2020 Australia’s Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, announced the following:

“Australia is closing its borders to all non-citizens and non-residents. The entry ban takes effect from 9pm AEDT Friday, 20 March 2020, with exemptions only for Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family, including spouses, legal guardians and dependants. New Zealand citizens who live in Australia as Australian residents are also exempt, as are New Zealanders transiting to New Zealand. Exemptions for Pacific Islanders transiting to their home countries will continue to apply. Australian citizens and permanent residents and those exempt from our entry restrictions will continue to be subject to a strict 14 days self-isolation. We also strongly urge Australians looking to return home to do so as soon as possible.”

The Department of Home Affairs news and media page has further information on restrictions and exemptions, including:

·         Definitions of immediate family members

·         Visa holders who are not able to enter Australia before the required entry date

·         Current visa processing arrangements

·         Students in Australia

·         Self-isolation requirements for arrivals to Australia

We strongly advise applicants to consult the Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date advice to assist you in making a decision about possible travel to Australia. Information will be updated regularly.

We also suggest that you consider subscribing to Smart Traveller which has the latest information and advice for safe travel overseas.

The Department of Health also has a page with links to COVID-19 related information as well as information for international travellers.

If you are resident in Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, Comoros or Reunion Island your visa application is processed by the Australian High Commission in Pretoria. For more information on visa options, lodging a visa application, and how to get in touch with the Australian High Commission please see:

http://southafrica.embassy.gov.au/pret/Visas_and_Migration.html

Please also refer to our information guide below for answers to frequently asked questions:

General Visa Information Sheet

Australian Businesses Operation in Africa - Visa Fast Track

Government Officials Travelling for Official Business - Visa Fast Track

Citizenship

If you are interested in apply for Australian citizenship, please see the following website for information on eligibility and how to apply:

http://citizenship.gov.au/