Australia Turns On Green Signal To Open Borders For International Students

Studying in Australia has been a dream for students around the globe for many years, which is attributed to its top-class education system and post-study job facilities. However, because of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian Government had to impose various restrictions on international travel, which greatly affected overseas students.

But the good news is that, with many people being vaccinated, Australia has lifted its travel bans. However, there are still some obligations one has to comply with for a smooth transfer. This blog discusses all details you must know before booking your Australian flight.

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Let’s Have a look at the most recent updates for international students

As per the most recent updates, the Government of Australia has reopened international borders to Temporary Graduate Visa 485 holders and students who have received both doses of vaccination. The news is no less wonderful for the students, the local community, and the institutes that allow international students.

1. From 15 December 2021, international travelers have been allowed to enter Australia. However, it will also depend on the state border restrictions and state-specific entry requirements. For example, if you wish to travel to South Australia or arrive in another Australian city and then move to South Australia, a 7-day quarantine is necessary.
2. From 28 December 2021, international students have to undertake a 3-day quarantine to enter South Australia.

The next section focuses on several frequently asked questions covering some important information.

Find Your Answers To Frequently Asked Questions Below

Answers to these questions provide details about the most currently available information. However, as the authority will regularly update it, you must check it before proceeding.

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When Will I Be Able To Travel To Adelaide?

Fully vaccinated international students and holders of the Temporary Graduate Visa can travel to Adelaide from 15 December 2021. In addition, holders of other temporary visas will also be eligible. For the full list of eligible visas, you can check the official website of the Department of Home Affairs. Note that you will not require to obtain a travel exemption to travel to Adelaide.

However, there is one important requirement you must be aware of: completing the EntryCheckSA application. Make sure you fill out the application form a maximum of 14 days before your scheduled arrival. Also, the application must be completed at least 3 days (72 hours) before you arrive in South Australia.

When I Arrive in South Australia, Will I Have To Quarantine?

As per current regulations of the SA Government, all international travelers holding a full vaccination certificate have to spend 7 days in quarantine in South Australia. For this purpose, you have to use the HealthCheckSA application.

The good thing is that from 28 December 2021, this number of days will be reduced to 3 days as by then, the Government expects 90% vaccination to be completed. If you want more information on the quarantine requirements of South Australia, check its government website.

Can I Travel To South Australia Without Being Quarantined If I Arrive in Another Australian city?

Temporary Graduate Visa holders, international students, and other temporary visa holders entering Australia have to remain compliant with the quarantine requirements of the specific territory or state they arrive in. If they have plans to move to another state later, which has not lifted its border bans, they must also comply with that state’s quarantine requirements.

• So, before booking your flight, the first thing you must check is the state-specific quarantine arrangements. When you have plans to travel to another state or territory, you must check what domestic travel restrictions exist because Australian states and territories may have their own travel restrictions.
• So, if you want to enter South Australia from another Australian state, it is mandatory to complete the EntryCheckSA application. A border entry process will assess your vaccination status, COVID-19 risk, and departure location.

Once the procedure is completed, the Government will send you an email to advise whether any restriction is imposed and if the HealthCheckSA is needed to monitor your daily symptoms and check information on the necessary tests, test results, and quarantine.

Will I Need To Return to Australia With A Valid Student Visa?

Yes, holding a valid student visa is necessary for every international student returning to Australia. You can use your ImmiAccount or VEVO to check its status and validity. ‘VEVO’ is the full form of Visa Entitlement Verification Online, and every information of people holding Australian visas is stored there.

If your visa expires shortly or has already expired, make sure you apply for another visa using your ImmiAccount. For complete visa information, including visa benefits, costs, processing times, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step application procedure, visit the Australian Immigration website.

It may happen that you held your Student Visa Subclass 500 on or after 1 February 2020 and were unable to finish your study course due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In that case, you may apply for a waiver of the visa application fee. For more detailed information, it is best to visit the Department of Home Affairs website. Alternatively, you can also consult your institute.

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Is It Necessary for Me To Be Vaccinated in Order To Travel To Australia?

Yes, if you need to travel to Australia, make sure you are fully vaccinated. Students who have received both vaccination doses can enter Australia without any travel exemption.

One thing students get confused about is which vaccine they should receive. According to Australian law, every student should receive the prescribed schedule of doses of a vaccine that has the proper approval of Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Information on currently approved and recognised vaccines is also available on the Federal Government website.

All international travelers should carry a COVID-19 negative report as per current rules. The report should be of a PCR test conducted 3 days before the departure.

What Proof Do I Need To Show That I’ve Had All Of My Vaccinations?

To prove that you are fully vaccinated, you must show a valid document proof at the time of arrival. Make sure your vaccination certificate meets the following criteria.

• A relevant authority must issue it.
• It should be in English. A translated version will be required for a non-English certificate.
• It should also contain information such as the manufacturer of the vaccine, your name as the same as it on your passport, date of birth, and date of each dose.

We always recommend bringing a printed copy of it.

Will Students From All Over The World Be Able To Return To SA?

Individuals irrespective of the country are now allowed to enter Australia. The only thing you need is a full-dosed vaccine. Citizens from Japan, South Korea, and Singapore can also enter this country with any visa. However, state quarantine obligations apply even to returning Australians.

Is A Travel Exemption Still Required For Me To Visit Australia?

No, overseas students do not need a travel exception to visit Australia.

How Can Migration Agent Adelaide Help You?

For a smooth migration procedure, especially after a period of restrictions, you must take professional help. Many migration agents in Adelaide provide that help, but you may not find the best agent for your purpose. But when you contact Migration Agent Adelaide, they will undoubtedly fill that gap and assign you their best professional to look after your case.

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