australia tourist arrival requirements

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Crossing the border Incoming Passenger Card

​​​incoming passenger card (ipc).

Passengers arriving in Australia are required under Australian law to identify themselves and provide certain information through the completion of a passenger card.

Australian law concerning completion of a passenger cards is set out in the Migration Act 1958 (the Migration Act) and the Migration Regulations 1994 (the Migration Regulations).

What is a passenger card?

A passenger card is a document providing passenger identification and an effective record of a person's entry to Australia.

An Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) is to be completed by passengers entering Australia.​​​​​ IPCs will be provided to travellers on board their flight or ship before arrival or by the Australian Border Force in the arrival terminal.​​

Passenger cards also serve as:

• a declaration in relation to health and character requirements for non-Australian citizens
• a visa application form for Special Category Visa applicants and for Norfolk Island Permanent Residents.

Who needs to complete a passenger card?

Most passengers are required to complete and present a passenger card when entering Australia. However, particular people are exempt from completing a passenger card (as prescribed in regulation 3.06 and schedule 9 of the Migration Regulations).

Australian citizens who refuse to complete an IPC may be penalised. Non-Australian citizens may be penalised and refused immigration clearance.

Completing a passenger card in English

An IPC must be completed in English. Passengers requiring assistance to complete a passenger card can download printable sample versions of the IPC, including translations (see Passenger Card Samples section below).

Completing an incoming passenger card

Passengers entering Australia are required to accurately provide the following information on both sides of the IPC:

• family/surname, given names and passport number
• flight number or name of ship
• intended address in Australia
• if they intend to live in Australia for the next 12 months
• declarations relating to customs and quarantine.

• the country in which they boarded the flight/vessel
• their date of birth and usual occupation
• nationality as shown on their passport
• contact details in Australia and emergency contact details.

Passengers are required to sign and date the IPC, and are also required to correctly answer additional questions concerning their migration status, health status and any prior criminal convictions. For non-Australian citizens, providing false information can affect their visa status.

Completing a passenger card on behalf of another traveller

An IPC can be completed on behalf of another traveller where a person is in charge of that traveller. This includes parents/guardians of minors and carers of travellers with special needs.

A non-Australian citizen is considered to have completed a passenger card where the card is completed on their behalf.

Further information

Information about the Departments access to passenger information of all persons taking or proposing to take international passenger air service flights into and out of Australia.

See: ​ Collection of passenger name records

Information about arrival and departure records in the Movements Reconstruction database and how to request access to the information.

See: Movement Records ​​​​​​​

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COVID-19 and the border

Updates to Australia's immigration and border arrangements during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.

​​​Latest updates

From 12:01am on Saturday 11 March 2023, people travelling to Australia from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, will not be required to show evidence of a negative pre-departure test for COVID-19. For more information see Entering and leaving Australia .

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Entering or leaving Australia

Australia welcomes millions of overseas visitors each year. Anyone who is not an Australian citizen needs a valid visa to enter the country.

International passenger caps have been removed for all international passenger arrivals into Australia.

All travellers should be aware that: People entering Australia do not need to provide evidence of vaccination status People entering Australia do not need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration People leaving Australia will not be asked to provide evidence of their vaccination status Unvaccinated visa holders do not ​ need a travel exemption to travel to Australia Mask wearing on international flights to Australia is no longer mandatory . It is important to remember that airlines, vessel operators and other countries may have specific requirements that travellers need to comply with.

Australian Citizens

All Australian citizens must enter and exit Australia on an Australian passport. Your Australian passport must be valid (not expired) on the day of your arrival in Australia. It does not need to have six months remaining validity to enter Australia unless you are passing through a third country that requires it. Citizens are not entitled to a visa, even if you are also a citizen of another country. Please see the  Department of Home Affairs website  for more information. 

Immigration and Visas

All foreign travellers, except New Zealand citizens, must obtain a visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia.

»    Immigration and visas

If you have a specific question, please contact the Department of Home Affairs .

You will also need to know what you can and cannot bring into Australia, knowing the duty-free concession limits and what to experience when travelling through Australian airports and seaports.

Please visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

Plan your trip with  australia.com , the official Tourism Australia website, offering a wide range of travel information and planning tools including over 2000 images, a currency converter, daily weather updates, interactive maps, suggested holiday itineraries, holiday deals, specialist travel agents and more. Available in nine languages.

Tourist Refund Scheme

The  Tourist Refund Scheme  enables you to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you buy in Australia.

Australia's borders are open for tourism. Here's who can travel, and when

Australia's tourism industry is rejoicing at the news that tourists will soon be allowed into the country after almost two years of border restrictions.

The changes will also allow people to reunite with loved ones who were unable to get a visa under previous entry requirements.

However, strict COVID-19 rules will still apply.

Click on a link below to jump to the question:

When can tourists come to Australia?

• Is Western Australia open to tourists?

Do tourists need a COVID-19 vaccine to travel to Australia?

Can unvaccinated people travel to australia.

• What COVID-19 vaccines do Australia recognise?

Can unvaccinated children enter Australia?

Do tourists need to prove a negative covid test, are cruise ships allowed.

All fully vaccinated visa holders, including tourists, will be allowed to travel to Australia without an exemption from February 21 .

International arrivals will be subject to arrival caps  and the quarantine requirements of each state or territory.

Australian citizens, permanent residents, their family members and some vaccinated visa holders are already allowed to travel to Australia.

Is Western Australia open to tourists?

WA is open to travellers who arrive from overseas, however, from February 9, the state's limit on international arrivals will be capped at 530 people per week.

International arrivals to WA must complete a G2G Pass declaration, undergo quarantine and COVID testing.

All international arrivals to Australia — including tourists — are required to be fully vaccinated unless they have proof of medical exemption.

The federal government defines fully vaccinated as two doses, for most vaccine brands , and does not require international arrivals to have a booster shot.

However, the Victorian government has flagged it may require international arrivals to have had two doses and a booster.

Other states and territories may follow suit if the government's vaccine advisory body ATAGI changes the definition of "fully vaccinated" to mean three doses.

In announcing the border reopening, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said people would not need three doses of a COVID vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated.

"It will be two [doses]. There are various arguments around the world for three doses. Two doses is what the Chief Medical Officer says is sufficient," Mr Morrison said on February 7.

Unvaccinated travellers will need to provide proof that there is a medical reason that they cannot be vaccinated in order to travel to Australia.

They must also apply for a travel exemption to come to Australia.

If they are granted permission to travel, they must  undergo mandatory hotel quarantine upon arrival.

What COVID-19 vaccines does Australia recognise?

International travellers to Australia are considered fully vaccinated if they have received COVID-19 vaccines recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

That includes receiving two doses ( mixed doses are accepted ) of:

• AstraZeneca Vaxzevria
• AstraZeneca Covishield
• Pfizer/Biontech Comirnaty
• Moderna Spikevax or Takeda
• Sinovac Coronavac
• Bharat Biotech Covaxin
• Sinopharm BBIBP-CorV (for people under 60 years of age on arrival in Australia)
• Gamaleya Research Institute Sputnik V
• Novavax/Biocelect Nuvaxovid

Or one dose of:

• Johnson & Johnson/Janssen-Cilag

The final dose required to be fully vaccinated must have been received at least seven days before travelling to Australia.

Travellers must show airline staff their International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) or a foreign vaccination certificate.

Children under 12 do not need to be vaccinated to travel to Australia.

However, if the child is travelling with an unvaccinated adult family member, the entire family group will be subject to arrival caps and have to undergo mandatory hotel quarantine.

Some state and territories allow for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children aged 12 to 17 to travel with a fully vaccinated adult.

When checking in for their flight to Australia, international travellers must present either:

• A negative PCR test taken within three days of departure
• A negative Nucleic Acid Amplification Test taken within three days of departure
• A medical certificate as evidence of a negative RAT taken under medical supervision within 24 hours of departure

There is currently a ban on international cruise ships in Australia.

The ban came into effect in March 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It has been extended until mid-February 2022 due to the fast-spreading Omicron variant.

The cruise industry says ships may not return to Australian waters until April or May this year.

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Australian Visa and Entry Requirements FAQs

Learn about visa requirements for entry to Australia for tourism purposes with this list of frequently asked questions. 

Please note this page is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. For information on visas to enter Australia, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information from Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .*

Ready to plan your trip? We're ready to welcome you! Here are some helpful tips for getting your visa sorted: 

• Be sure to secure the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia. Use the Visa Finder to explore your options.
• Ensure all details are correct and provide all required documents when you apply. An incomplete or incorrect application can delay your visa.
• Submitting multiple applications at the same time can slow the process. For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children. 
• Questions? The Australian Government's Global Service Centre can help.

Australian Visa Information

Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of Australian visa types, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, via the ETA app or on the  Department of Home Affairs website.

There are different Australian visa types available for travellers to Australia. Knowing which Australian visa to apply for depends on the length of your stay, your passport and the purpose of your visit. You’ll also need to meet certain financial and medical requirements, be outside of Australia when applying and maintain health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) This visa allows you to visit Australia as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay for three months each visit. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of countries and regions, who live outside Australia. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is  here .

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app. Agents can assist you in the application process, but you must be physically present as a live facial image is required.

eVisitor  (subclass 651) This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of European countries and it cannot be extended.

Visitor visa  (subclass 600) The Visitor visa allows you to visit Australia, either for tourism or business purposes. It is open to all nationalities. Generally, a period of stay of up to three months is granted, but up to 12 months may be granted in certain circumstances. Applicants will have to pay a fee to submit their application.

The application process may differ depending on which visa you need.

You can only apply for the  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located  here .

For other visas, you can apply online by creating an ImmiAccount and completing the application process. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of your travel date to allow enough time for processing. You may be asked to provide further supporting information. You will be notified in writing if your tourist visa is approved and it will be digitally linked to your passport. For more information on different visa types, and Australian visa requirements including how to apply for an Australian visa, visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website.

If you are already in Australia and hold a valid Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) you can extend your stay by applying for another visa, such as a Visitor visa (subclass 600). An eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot be extended.

See the Department of Home Affairs website for details.

Working Holiday Visas

Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions.

Find out more about working holiday visas here .

*Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check this information is still current by visiting the Australian Department of Home Affairs .

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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COVID-19 information for international arrivals

If you are arriving in NSW from overseas, follow this advice to protect yourself and people around you from COVID-19.

Last updated: 22 June 2023

Who is this information for?

This information applies to anyone who arrives in NSW from a country outside Australia in the last 14 days. This includes if you:

• have come to Australia on a flight from an overseas country
• have arrived on a vessel (e.g. cruise ship) that has travelled to an international port.

What should I do before I travel to NSW?

If you are travelling to Australia, see   entering and leaving Australia for more information.

What should I do when I arrive in NSW?

It is not mandatory to have a COVID-19 test after arriving in NSW if you have travelled overseas.

Masks are not mandatory in airports, cruise terminals or on public transport in NSW.

However, it is important to remember that travelling and interacting closely with people can put you at increased risk of COVID-19. NSW Health recommends people wear masks where they cannot physically distance from others, in crowded, indoor places, and in settings where there are people who at high risk of severe illness.

You are at risk of testing positive to COVID-19 for up to 14 days after being exposed to someone with the virus. Most people will test positive in the first 7 days. This is why it is important to be careful to protect the people around you, especially those who are at higher risk of severe illness, during this time.

To protect your loved ones and everyone around you, it is recommended that you monitor closely for symptoms of COVID-19 after arrival. If you develop symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 and stay home until your symptoms have resolved, even if you receive a negative result. 

Please see What COVID-19 test should I do?

How else can I help slow the spread of COVID-19 while I am in NSW?

If you have been exposed to COVID-19, follow the Advice for people exposed to COVID-19  to help stop the spread.  

We can help protect each other from COVID-19. Find out more on  Together we can stay COVID safe .

What if I test positive to COVID-19 in NSW?

If you test positive to COVID-19, follow the advice in Testing positive to COVID-19 and managing COVID-19 safely at home .

Stay home until your symptoms resolve, and don't visit people at high risk of severe illness, or anyone in high-risk settings, such as hospitals, aged or disability care facilities for at least 7 days.

If you have to leave the house wear a mask when indoors and on public transport, avoid large gatherings and crowded, indoor places.

Entering NSW from interstate

There are no restrictions on interstate travel to NSW but we can practise safe behaviours to help protect each other from COVID-19, please read Stay COVID safe .

Workers and businesses should check the advice on  Keeping workers Safe  beforehand if travelling for work.

Travelling to another state or territory

Check the state government website for your destination before you travel, as states can change COVID-19 advice or restrictions if the COVID-19 situation changes:

• Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
• Northern Territory
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• Western Australia

Travel to remote Aboriginal towns and communities

People travelling to rural and remote Aboriginal communities should read  COVID-19 information for Aboriginal communities  for advice on how to stay safe from COVID-19 and flu.

Related information

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Australia reopens to international tourists

Tourism Australia has welcomed the return of overseas tourists on 21 February 2022, with the first international flights touching down in Australia since the reopening to all fully vaccinated travellers, and other visitors. 

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Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan joined Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison at Sydney International Airport to greet the first international tourists to arrive on our shores in almost two years.

“Australia's health and economic response to the pandemic has been among the best in the world, with one of the highest vaccination rates and low mortality,” Mr Tehan said.

“We are successfully managing the pandemic and learning to live with the virus. Australians are travelling overseas, and we are welcoming international visitors to our country.

“International tourists will come here to see our iconic attractions, sample our world-leading food and drink, learn about our Indigenous culture, and enjoy the Australian way of life.

“Australia is the best country in the world and we're excited to be sharing it with the rest of the world again.”

Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said the tourism industry has been looking forward to the return of international tourists.

“At Tourism Australia we are so excited to be welcoming back international visitors who make up a critical part of our visitor economy,” Ms Harrison said.

“We know Australia remains an incredibly desirable destination for international visitors and we can’t wait to once again share all of the unforgettable tourism experiences we have to offer here in Australia.”

“There is no doubt the last two years have been very challenging for the tourism industry, and whilst recovery will take a bit of time, operators can’t wait to say g’day and welcome back international tourists.”

Tourism Australia launched the campaign, Come and Say G’Day - Don’t Go Small. Go Australia , into key Western markets, such as the USA and UK, ahead of the border reopening.

Come and Say G’Day - Australia is Yours to Explore , which launched in Singapore ahead of its reopening, will continue to be rolled out in markets in Asia.

TRAVELLING TO AUSTRALIA 

• From 21 February 2022, visa holders who are fully vaccinated with two doses of a Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved COVID-19 vaccine can travel to Australia quarantine-free, without the need to apply for a travel exemption. 
• hold a valid Australian visa.
• be fully vaccinated with two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine approved by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and provide proof of vaccination status.
• Present a negative rapid antigen test (RAT) within 24 hours of departure or a Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure (unless a medical exemption applies).
• Complete an Australia Travel Declaration at least 72 hours before departure.  
• Fully vaccinated visa holders can enter all states and territories quarantine-free from 21 February 2022, except for Western Australia.  
• Travellers will need to comply with requirements in the state or territory of their arrival, and any other state or territories that they plan to travel to. Information on entry requirements is updated regularly so it is important to check the latest requirements before travelling. Travellers are also encouraged to check any requirements for stopover destinations that they are transitioning through. 
• For requirements for travel into specific states and territories in Australia, visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website | State and Territory Information.
• For more information on travelling to Australia visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs I Department of Home Affairs  

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: 

Beau Mitchem M: +61 413 254 708  [email protected]

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

*Disclaimer:  The information on this website is presented in good faith and on the basis that Tourism Australia, nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission, negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any statement, information or advice given in this website. Tourism Australia wishes to advise people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent that this website may contain images of persons now deceased.

Ministers Department of Health and Aged Care

Changes to requirements for international arrivals

From 12.01am 6 July people will be able to travel to and from Australia without being required to declare their COVID-19 vaccination status.

The Hon Mark Butler MP Minister for Health and Aged Care

From 12.01am 6 July people will be able to travel to and from Australia without being required to declare their COVID-19 vaccination status.  

The decision to amend the Biosecurity Act 2015 to remove these requirements was based on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer.

Travellers must still comply with any remaining COVID-19 requirements of airlines and shipping operators, as well as other countries and states and territories. 

This currently includes wearing masks on inbound international flights. State and territory orders mandating masks on domestic flights also remain in place.

 Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:   

“The Australian Government makes decisions on COVID related issues after considering the latest medical advice.

“The Chief Medical Officer has advised it is no longer necessary for travellers to declare their vaccine status as part of our management of COVID.

“Unvaccinated Australians, as well as certain groups of visa holders, have been able to travel to Australia for some time.

“We will continue to act on the medical advice as needed.” 

• The Hon Mark Butler MP
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Travel Advisory September 8, 2023

Australia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with removal of major event information.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Australia.

If you decide to travel to Australia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Australia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Suite 2, 50 Miller Street North Sydney, NSW 2060 Australia Telephone:  +(61) (2) 2 8219-2100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 4422-2201 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Canberra (The Embassy does not provide consular services.) Moonah Place Yarralumla, ACT 2600 Australia Telephone: +(61) (2) 6214-5600 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 411-424-608 Fax: +(61) (2) 6214-5970

U.S. Consulate General Melbourne 553 St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia Telephone: +(61) (3) 9526-5900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (3) 9389-3601 Fax: +(61) (3) 9526-5968 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Perth 4th Floor 16 St. George's Terrace Perth, WA 6000 Australia Telephone: +(61) (8) 6144-5100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (8) 9476-0081 Fax: +(61) (8) 9325-5914 Email:  [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA. The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers.

If you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

If you are travelling on a valid U.S. ePassport (a passport that contains an electronic chip) and are 16 years of age or older, you are eligible to use Australia’s automated border processing system, SmartGate, upon arrival in Australia (SmartGate kiosks are available only at participating airports). There is no additional enrollment process or fee to use SmartGate. Visit the SmartGate website for more information and for a list of participating airports in Australia.

Visit the Embassy of Australia website for the most current visa information.  

HIV/AIDS restrictions. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreigners seeking permanent residence in Australia. Depending on the type of visa you apply for, the length of your stay, and your intended activities in Australia, you may be required to undergo a medical examination before the Australian Department of Home Affairs will issue you a visa.

If you are in the application process, and are found to be HIV positive, a decision on the application will be considered on the same grounds as any other pre-existing medical condition (such as tuberculosis or cancer), with the focus on the cost to Australia’s health care and community services.

Additional information about Australian immigration health requirements can be found here.

Please verify this information with the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. before you travel. 

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorists have targeted, and could continue to target, Australia.

• Australia has an alert system for possible terrorist attacks. The threat levels range from “not expected” to “certain.” The Australian National Security website has up-to-date information regarding the current terrorism threat level. You may also contact the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.
• U.S. citizens in Australia should remain vigilant toward their personal security and exercise caution.
• Australian law protects the right of individuals and groups to engage in peaceful protest and to publicly express their views. Demonstrations and political rallies are generally approved by local authorities and well publicized. However, please be cautious of any possible confrontation that could escalate into violence. You should attempt to avoid the areas of demonstrations and be careful within the vicinity of any demonstrations. You should stay current with media coverage of local events and always be aware of your surroundings.
• You should be aware that robberies, burglaries, assault, and auto theft are common in Australia’s larger cities.
• Foreign visitors in popular tourist areas are targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers, and petty thieves. Most petty crime can be avoided if basic security precautions are taken.
• Be careful when visiting bars or clubs in the entertainment areas of major cities, as “bar brawls” and other assaults sometimes occur. You should watch out for drink spiking when consuming alcohol with unfamiliar people.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 000 and contact the U.S. Consulate in your district.
• The local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information about Australian Victim Assistance programs.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. consulate in your district for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned or deported.

• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, such as inside certain areas of Australian airports, near prisons, and at military bases.
• Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Alcohol and Drugs:

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy sentences and fines. Please see Australia’s Department of Health webpage for further information. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in jail time.
• Random breath testing of a driver's blood alcohol level is a common occurrence.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Potential Health Screening: Australian authorities have broad powers to prevent the entry of diseases and other materials into Australia that might pose a threat to its welfare. In the event of a public health emergency involving a communicable disease, passengers arriving in Australia may be subject to strict health screening measures, including testing, monitoring, and assessment for possible quarantine.

Customs: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural goods, including plants and food products, and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals and pets. Can you bring it in?

Contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington, D.C., or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, and visit the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture website for additional information.

Natural Disasters:

Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. These events are difficult to predict and can result in loss of life. You should be aware of conditions around you and monitor local weather and safety reports so you can take appropriate action when needed.

See our webpage for information on storm preparedness and response.

Safety Concerns:

Outdoor Recreation/Adventure

• Be aware that Australian fauna can be dangerous. From jellyfish to crocodiles, sharks, poisonous insects, and snakes, the continent and its waters host wildlife that merit awe and respect in equal doses.
• Visit the Wet Tropics Management Authority visitor information guide for information on Australian wildlife and marine life.
• Take important safety precautions when swimming, such as swimming only between the flags where a lifeguard is present, and never swimming alone.
• Further information on beach safety can be found on the Surf Life Saving website.

Follow recommended precautions when snorkeling and scuba diving and never dive alone. Over the past few years, there have been numerous deaths related to snorkeling and scuba diving incidents.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Australia. Australian federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

As of December 9, 2017 Australia defines marriage as “the union between two people.” Australia grants temporary and permanent visas to same-sex partners of Australian citizens.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance

• Australia enforces laws prohibiting discrimination against access to premises, facilities, and accommodation.
• Many of the downtown areas of Australian cities were built in the 1800s. These areas often have narrow sidewalks crowded with pedestrians and tourists.
• Most public transit, parking, streets, and buildings are accessible for disabled travelers.
• Tourist spots at the beach or in the Australian outback can have varying degrees of accessibility.
• Many accommodations and venues provide accessibility information on their websites.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Australia, dial 000.

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

• Excellent medical care is available in Australia.
• Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Prescriptions:

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Australia  to ensure the medication is  legal in   Australia .
• Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of hospitals and a link to the Australian National Health Services Directory at Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia (usembassy.gov) . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Australia.

Pharmaceuticals:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.  

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem during certain months in Australia due to bush fires. Consider the impact seasonal bush fire season pollution may have on your health and consult your doctor before traveling.

The air quality varies considerably and changes with the season. It is typically at its worst in the bush fire season. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Traffic operates on the left side of the road, and all vehicles use right-hand drive.
• Use caution when crossing streets and when driving.
• When crossing roads on foot, make sure you look carefully in all directions.
• Seat belt use by drivers and all passengers is mandatory, and fines apply for not wearing them.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• Speed limits and laws are rigorously enforced. Speed limits vary throughout Australia and are measured in kilometers, not miles. Be aware that speed cameras are everywhere and you will be ticketed for driving over the speed limit.
• Roads and streets are frequently narrower and less graded than U.S. highways.
• Outside major metropolitan areas, most highways are two-lane roads with significant distances between destinations.
• When driving in Australia, exercise caution while passing or merging with adjacent traffic.
• If driving in rural areas, be alert to free-roaming animals, such as kangaroos, and "road-trains" (several semi-truck trailers connected together).
• Passing road-trains is dangerous, and you should pull over to allow on-coming road-trains to pass to avoid being sideswiped.
• If you have no experience with a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you should exercise common-sense when driving in the Australian outback.

Traffic Laws:

• Each state/territory has different rules about using a foreign driver’s license and the conditions under which a visitor might have to get an international driver’s license. More information about  driving rules and regulations is available by state .
• Texting or holding your phone while driving is against the law in Australia, but you can use a hands-free system to communicate while driving.
• For specific information concerning Australian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, mandatory insurance, and the rental and operation of motor vehicles in Australia, visit the  Australian Tourist Commission website.

Public Transportation:  Australia has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, ferries, trains, and subways. Metered taxis and ride sharing services are also prevalent. Use common sense safety practices, such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings, on all public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Australia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Australia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Australia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  portal select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Australia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia

Statistics on international travel arriving in and departing from Australia.

• Next Release 12/06/2024 Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia, April 2024
• Next Release 12/07/2024 Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia, May 2024
• Next Release 15/08/2024 Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia, June 2024
• View all releases
• Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia Reference Period February 2024
• Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia Reference Period January 2024
• Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia Reference Period December 2023

Key statistics

In March 2024:

• Short-term visitor arrivals: 761,050 – an increase of 24.1% on one year earlier 
• Short-term resident returns: 767,110 – an increase of 20.7% on one year earlier
• Total arrivals: 1,614,830 – an increase of 20.1% on one year earlier
• Total departures: 1,709,930 – an increase of 29.1% on one year earlier

These statistics report on the number of international border crossings rather than the number of people. Most data in this release are rounded to the nearest 10. As a result, sums of components may not add exactly to totals.

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Some users are experiencing truncation of content when viewing collapsible sections of the publication, particularly when viewing large tables or graphs. 

If this issue is encountered, please consider downloading the data or collapsing and re-expanding the section to access all content. We are working on this issue and will have it rectified shortly.

Overseas Migration Statistics

This release presents statistics on all overseas arrivals and departures, which is not the same as overseas migration statistics.

If you are looking for ABS statistics on overseas migration, please refer to:

• Overseas Migration ;
• National, state and territory population .

Arrivals and departures

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• Provisional data for the most recent month has not had the full quality assurance methods applied as is done for the earlier months. Provisional data will be revised in the next issue of this publication.
• Provisional data for the most recent month has not had the full quality assurance methods applied as is done for the earlier months. Provisional estimates will be revised in the next issue of this publication.
• Category of travel data is not available from provisional estimates.
• Permanent arrivals (settlers) comprise: travellers who hold permanent visas, New Zealand citizens who indicate on their passenger card an intention to migrate permanently, and those who are otherwise identified as eligible to settle.
• Australian resident includes Australian citizens, permanent visa holders residing in Australia, and any New Zealand citizens who can be identified as a resident.
• An overseas visitor is any traveller arriving to, or departing from, Australia who is not an Australian resident.

Note: Long-term are travellers who have been away or in Australia for 12 months or more. Short-term are travellers who have been away or in Australia for less than 12 months.

Visitor arrivals - short-term

Compares international visitor arrivals each month by source country and change at the state and territory level. Analysis in this section is undertaken on short-term trips (less than 1 year).

For visitor arrivals to Australia:

• A total of 761,050 short-term trips were recorded, an increase of 147,710 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 9.0% lower than the pre-COVID level in March 2019.
• New Zealand was the largest source country, accounting for 15% of all visitor arrivals.

Countries where visitors came from

The three leading source countries where visitors came from were:

• New Zealand (115,270 trips)
• The USA (84,770)
• The UK (78,820).
• Top 10 source countries based on month ending March 2024.
• Excludes SARs and Taiwan.

State or territory of stay

All travellers are asked their intended address in Australia upon arrival. For March 2024, the highest number of visitor arrivals for short-term trips was observed for New South Wales (282,310), whilst the Northern Territory recorded the fewest (3,580).

2.3 Short-term visitor arrivals, state or territory of stay - March 2024

This map presents the number of short-term visitor arrivals in Australia in March 2024, by their state of intended stay.

- New South Wales (282,310) - Victoria (199,120) - Queensland (159,500) - South Australia (22,290) - Western Australia (76,560) - Tasmania (9,210) - Northern Territory (3,580) - Australian Capital Territory (8,390).

• Includes Other Territories.

Visitor arrivals - state and territory

Compares international visitor arrivals each month by source country for each state and territory. Analyses in this section are undertaken on short-term trips (less than 1 year) unless otherwise stated.

New South Wales

For visitor arrivals to New South Wales:

• There were 282,310 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 48,310 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 10.1% lower than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

The three leading source countries for New South Wales were:

• The USA (44,730 trips)
• New Zealand (33,340)
• The UK (28,010).

Long-term visitor arrivals

For visitors arriving in New South Wales for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 18,540 arrivals, a decrease of 5,010 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 0.7% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.  

For visitor arrivals to Victoria:

• There were 199,120 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 39,870 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 15.1% lower than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.  

The three leading source countries for Victoria were:

• New Zealand (31,470 trips)
• China (19,990)
• The UK (18,150).

For visitors arriving in Victoria for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 18,220 arrivals, a decrease of 1,800 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 1.4% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

For visitor arrivals to Queensland:

• There were 159,500 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 47,580 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 4.2% lower than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

The three leading source countries for Queensland were:

• New Zealand (37,910 trips)
• Japan (21,300)
• The USA (14,060).

For visitors arriving in Queensland for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 8,400 arrivals, a decrease of 980 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 37.6% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

South Australia

For visitor arrivals to South Australia:

• There were 22,290 short-term visitor arrivals, a decrease of 780 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 9.8% lower than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.  

The three leading source countries for South Australia were:

• The UK (2,820 trips)
• India (2,620)
• The USA (2,300).

For visitors arriving in South Australia for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 3,010 arrivals, a decrease of 740 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 28.1% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

Western Australia

For visitor arrivals to Western Australia:

• There were 76,560 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 11,260 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 2.3% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

The three leading source countries for Western Australia were:

• The UK (14,180 trips)
• Singapore (9,150)
• New Zealand (6,480).

a. Top 10 source countries based on month ending March 2024. b. Excludes SARs and Taiwan.

For visitors arriving in Western Australia for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 6,720 arrivals, a decrease of 450 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 88.4% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

For visitor arrivals to Tasmania:

• There were 9,210 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 950 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 5.5% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

The three leading source countries for Tasmania were:

• New Zealand (2,580 trips)
• The USA (1,040)
• The UK (820).  

For visitors arriving in Tasmania for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 610 arrivals, a decrease of 180 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 30.1% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

Northern Territory

For visitor arrivals to the Northern Territory:

• There were 3,580 short-term visitor arrivals, a decrease of 420 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 27.2% lower than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

The three leading source countries for the Northern Territory were:

• The USA (1,090 trips)
• Indonesia (270)
• The UK (180).

For visitors arriving in the Northern Territory for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 690 arrivals, a decrease of 190 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 67.7% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

Australian Capital Territory

For visitor arrivals to the Australian Capital Territory:

• There were 8,390 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 950 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 1.3% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

The three leading source countries for the Australian Capital Territory were:

• New Zealand (1,250 trips)
• India (970)
• The USA (930).

For visitors arriving in the Australian Capital Territory for a long-term trip (1 year or more):

• There were 1,130 arrivals, a decrease of 180 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 49.2% higher than pre-COVID levels in March 2019.

Visitor arrivals - short-term - calendar year 2023

Compares annual international travel arrivals over time by source country, state and territory, age and sex, main reason for journey and median duration of trip. All analysis in this section is done on short-term trips (less than 1 year).

For the most recent analysis by financial year, see the  June 2023 issue of Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia .

For visitors arriving in Australia in 2023:

• There were 7,187,430 visitor arrivals, nearly double the previous year
• New Zealand was the largest source country, accounting for 18% of visitors
• The most popular reason for travel was 'holiday' (40%)
• The median duration of stay in Australia was 14 days, down from 18 days in 2022.

Annual visitor arrivals

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a substantial decline in travel movements due to international border restrictions from March 2020. These restrictions were progressively lifted from 1 November 2021, and by 21 February 2022 Australian borders were reopened to most travellers. 

There were 7,187,430 visitor arrivals in 2023. This is an increase of nearly double on the previous year, up from 3,694,380.

Visitor arrivals have increased since international border restrictions were removed in November 2021, but remain lower than pre-COVID levels back in 2019. The number of arrivals in December 2022 was 60% of the same period in 2019, and by December 2023 had increased to 81% of the 2019 level. The total number of visitor arrivals in 2023 was 76% of the number recorded in 2019. 

Visitor arrivals to Australia have generally been increasing over recent decades, with a continuous increase in the ten-year period ending 2019. However, due to the impact of COVID-19, a substantial decline was observed from February 2020 onwards. Since November 2021, visitor arrivals have been increasing as border restrictions were progressively lifted.

Peaks were seen during the:

• Brisbane Expo in 1988
• Sydney Olympics in 2000
• Easing of COVID-19 border restrictions from late 2021.

Decreases were observed during the:

• Asian financial crisis in 1998
• September 11 attacks in the USA in 2001
• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003
• Global Financial Crisis (GFC) in 2008
• Global COVID-19 pandemic starting in 2020. 
• 2001 Sept 11 attacks
• Asian financial crisis

The top five source countries for 2023 were New Zealand, the USA, the UK, China and India.

• Short-term visitor arrivals for all top 5 source countries were higher than the previous year
• New Zealand remained the largest source country for visitor arrivals with 1,272,140 visits
• Arrivals from the USA were the second highest with 659,750 visits

Ten years ago, in 2013, the top five source countries were New Zealand, China, the UK, the USA and Singapore.

• Top 5 source countries based on year ending December 2023.

Visitor arrivals have increased significantly since the easing of travel restrictions in November 2021, but visitor numbers from different countries have recovered at varied rates.

South Korea was the only one of the top 10 source countries in 2023 to exceed pre-COVID levels, reaching 103% of 2019 arrivals. China had the lowest rate of recovery, reaching 37% of 2019 arrivals.

• Top 10 source countries based on year ending December 2023.

All travellers are asked their intended address in Australia upon arrival. 

11.7 Short-term visitor arrivals, state/territory of stay — 2023

This map presents the proportion of short-term visitor arrivals in Australia in 2023, by their intended state or territory of stay:

• NSW (38.4% of all short-term visitors)
• Vic. (25.6%)
• Qld (20.4%)
• Tas. (1.0%)
• ACT (1.3%). 

Ten years ago, in 2013, Victoria had a smaller proportion of visitor arrivals (22.3%) than Queensland (23.5%) and the Northern Territory had a larger proportion (1.2%) than the Australian Capital Territory (1.0%) and Tasmania (0.7%).

All states and territories expect the Northern Territory recorded an overall increase in international visitors in the years prior to 2020. While most states recorded steady annual growth, the Northern Territory and South Australia experienced fluctuations in visitor numbers. All states and territories observed a considerable drop in visitor numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since the easing of travel restrictions in November 2021, visitor arrivals have increased in all states and territories, but have increased towards pre-COVID levels at different rates. In 2023, visitor arrivals to ACT reached 86% of 2019 movements, the highest of any state or territory. Visitor arrivals to the Northern Territory were the lowest, with movements in 2023 reaching 60% of 2019 levels.

The mix of source countries at the state and territory level was different to that at the national level. In 2023:

• New Zealand was the largest source country for visitors to NSW, Vic., Qld, SA and Tas.
• The UK was the largest source country for WA
• The USA was the largest source country of visitors to the NT
• China was the largest source country of visitors to the ACT.

Ten years earlier, in 2013, it was similar, the only difference was that the UK was the leading source country for visitors to SA, and New Zealand was the leading source country for visitors to ACT.

Age and sex

There were more visits to Australia by females than males in 2023 (3,456,860 males compared with 3,730,570 females). In 2013, however, there were more male short-term visitor arrivals than female (3,317,100 males and 3,164,600 females).

In 2023, the median age for male visitors was 41 years, while the median age for female visitors was 42 years. When broken down into five-year age groups, the largest group of visitor arrivals was those aged between 25 and 29 years. New Zealand was the largest source country for this age group, and ‘holiday’ was the most frequently stated reason for journey (42%). In 2013, the median age for male visitors was 40, and the median age for female visitors was 39.

Main reason for journey

Visitors are asked the main reason for their journey upon arrival in Australia.

In 2023, the most frequently stated reasons were:

• ‘Holiday’ (40%)
• ‘Visiting friends/relatives’ (37%)
• ‘Business’ (6.2%).
• As a percentage of all short-term visitor arrivals.

In the pre-COVID period, ‘holiday’ was the most frequently reported reason for journey for visitor arrivals (47% in 2019), but international travel restrictions due to COVID-19 caused a change in travel behaviour. Since the easing of these restrictions, the number of visitors to Australia has increased for all reasons, and ‘holiday’ has returned to the most common (40% in 2023).

Female visitors were more likely than males to record their main reason for journey as 'holiday' or 'visiting friends/relatives'. Male visitors were more likely to record 'business' or 'employment' than female visitors.

• Visiting friends/relatives

Duration of stay

Visitors are asked their intended duration in Australia upon arrival.

During 2023, the median duration of stay in Australia was 14 days. This is a decrease compared to 2022, when the median trip duration was 18 days. In 2019, prior to the pandemic, the median duration of short-term visitor trips was 10 days, but median duration of stay increased during the pandemic.

The median duration varied between the states and territories and between the numerous source countries.

• Top 10 source countries have been calculated at the Australia level.
• Excludes SARs and Taiwan.

In 2023 the median duration by state or territory was:

• Highest in NT at 21 days 
• Lowest for NSW and Qld at 12 days.

Visitors from India recorded a median duration of stay of 61 days, which was the longest of the top 10 countries. This was down from 86 days the year before.

Visitors from Japan recorded for a comparatively shorter stay, with a median duration of 7 days. This was down from 10 days the year before.

The median duration of stay of short-term visitors to Australia also varied by their reported reason for journey. Those travelling for:

• ‘Education’ stayed the longest (152 days)
• ‘Employment’ (147 days)
• ‘Visiting friends/relatives’ (20 days)
• ‘Holiday’ (10 days)
• ‘Convention/conference’ and ‘business’ stayed the shortest (7 days).

Arrivals - international students

Compares international student arrivals each month by visa type.

• In March 2024 there were 44,580 international student arrivals to Australia, a decrease of 9,060 students compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of student arrivals in March 2024 was 38.2% lower than the pre-COVID levels in March 2019.
• International student visa holders whether it be for a short-term (less than 1 year) or long-term (1 year or more) duration. This is not the same as when a traveller self reports 'education' as their main reason for journey.
• English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students.

Resident returns - short-term

Compares international resident returns each month by destination country and change at the state and territory level. Analysis in this section is undertaken on short-term trips (less than 1 year).

For residents returning from overseas:

• A total of 767,110 short-term trips were recorded, an increase of 131,380 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.
• The number of trips for March 2024 was 1.8% higher than the pre-COVID level in March 2019.
• New Zealand was the most popular destination country, accounting for 16% of all resident returns.

Destination countries

The three leading destination countries residents returned from were:

• New Zealand (124,440 trips)
• Indonesia (110,190)
• Japan (62,590).

State or territory of residence

All travellers are asked their intended address in Australia upon arrival. For March 2024, the highest number of resident returns from short-term trips was observed for New South Wales (248,670), whilst the Northern Territory recorded the fewest (5,590).

13.3 Short-term resident returns, state or territory of residence - March 2024

This map presents the number of short-term resident returns in Australia in March 2024, by their state of intended residence.

- New South Wales (248,670) - Victoria (202,810) - Queensland (159,410) - South Australia (30,260) - Western Australia (100,480) - Tasmania (7,210) - Northern Territory (5,590) - Australian Capital Territory (12,560).

Resident returns - short-term - calendar year 2023

For Australian residents returning to Australia in 2023:

• There were 9,975,230 resident returns from overseas, an increase of over 4.7 million on the previous year
• Indonesia was the leading destination country for Australians travelling overseas, accounting for 1,368,050 trips
• The most popular reason for travel was 'holiday' (57%)
• The median trip duration was 15 days.

Annual resident returns

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a substantial decline in travel movements due to the introduction of international border restrictions in March 2020. These restrictions were eased progressively from 1 November 2021, resulting in increased travel in 2022 and 2023.

9,975,230 residents returned from overseas trips in 2023. This was an increase of over 4.7 million on the previous year, when 5,225,640 trips were taken.

The number of resident returns in 2023 remained lower than pre-COVID but increased across the year, and by December 2023 had reached 99% of the corresponding period in 2019. The total number of residents returning from overseas in 2023 was 88% of 2019 (pre-COVID) volumes.

The number of Australian residents travelling overseas has largely been increasing over recent decades, with the general trend interrupted by various historical events such as the: 

• Early 1990s recession in Australia
• September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001
• Bali bombings in 2002
• Global COVID-19 pandemic starting in 2020.

A substantial decline was observed in late March 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19. Travel by Australian residents has been increasing over the past two years after border restrictions were gradually removed from November 2021.

• 2002 Bali bombings
• Early 1990s recession

The top five destination countries in 2023 were Indonesia, New Zealand, the USA, the UK and Japan.

• Short-term resident returns for all top 5 destination countries continued to increase after the removal of international travel restrictions 
• Indonesia was the leading destination country with 1,368,050 trips, most of whom recorded 'holiday' as their reason for travel (86%)
• Residents returning from New Zealand increased to 1,263,540, up from 707,990 in 2022
• The USA was the only country in the top 5 where travel volumes remained lower than 10 years ago (667,080 trips, down from 972,020 in 2013).

Ten years ago, in 2013, the top five countries were New Zealand, the USA, Indonesia, Thailand and the UK.

• Top 5 destination countries based on year ending December 2023.

The number of Australian residents travelling overseas has increased significantly since the easing of travel restrictions in November 2021, but the number of residents visiting various countries has increased at different rates.

India was the highest of the top ten destination countries when compared to pre-COVID levels, with trips taken in 2023 exceeding the 2019 level by 15%. The number of Australians visiting Fiji also exceeded the 2019 level by 12%. The USA had the lowest rate of recovery of the top 10 countries, reaching 63% of the 2019 volume.

• Top 10 destination countries based on year ending December 2023.

All travellers are asked their intended address in Australia upon arrival.

14.7 Short-term resident returns, state/territory of residence — 2023

This map presents the proportion of short-term resident returns in Australia in 2022-23, by their intended state or territory of residence:

• NSW (33.5% of all short-term resident returns)
• Vic. (28.0%)
• Qld (17.9%)
• ACT (1.9%). 

Ten years ago, in 2013, the Northern Territory had a higher proportion of resident returns (1.2%) than Tasmania (1.0%). Victoria’s proportion has increased (up from 24.8%) and Western Australia’s has decreased (down from 15.3%).

Most states and territories recorded growth in the number of residents taking overseas trips in the years prior to 2020. Western Australia remained steady from 2014 until the impact of the pandemic, while the Northern Territory fluctuated across the decade. There was a considerable drop for all states and territories from March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The easing of travel restrictions from November 2021 has resulted in an increase of international travel from residents of all states, but travel has increased towards pre-COVID levels at different rates. When compared to 2019, overseas trips were the highest for Victorian residents, with resident returns in 2023 reaching 90% of 2019 levels, and lowest for Northern Territory residents, with 2023 movements reaching 66% of 2019 levels.

The top destination country varied between states and territories:

• New Zealand was the most popular destination for residents from NSW, Qld, Tas. and ACT.
• Indonesia was the top destination for Vic., SA, WA and the NT.

Ten years earlier, in 2013, the difference was that New Zealand was the leading destination for residents of Vic., and the USA was the top country for those living in NSW, SA, and the ACT.

There were more trips taken overseas by Australian males than females in 2023 (5,092,650 males compared with 4,882,580 females). Ten years earlier, in 2013, there were also more trips taken by males than females (4,586,090 males compared with 4,123,510 females).

In 2023, male residents returning to Australia had a median age of 42 years, whereas female residents had a median age of 41 years. When broken down into five-year age groups, more women than men travelled in the age range of 15 to 34 and there were more men than women in all other age groups under 90 years of age.

Australian residents returning from overseas are asked to provide the main reason for their journey.

• 'Holiday' (57%)
• 'Visiting friends/relatives' (29%)
• 'Business' (6%).
• As a percentage of all short-term resident returns.

Prior to COVID, ‘holiday’ was the most frequently reported reason for residents returning from overseas trips (57% in 2019). However, due to the impact of the pandemic and travel restrictions, the proportion recording ‘visiting friends and relatives’ became the most frequent reason during that period and reached a peak of 59% in February 2022. In 2023, ‘holiday’ has returned as the most common reason for journey (57%) and surpassed ‘visiting friends/relatives’ (29%).

Female residents returning to Australia were more likely than male residents to record their main reason for journey as 'holiday' or 'visiting friends/relatives'. Male residents were more likely to record 'business' or ‘employment’ than female residents.

The exact duration away is measured for Australian residents returning from overseas.

During 2023, the median short-term trip duration for Australians travelling overseas was 15 days. This was less than in 2022, when the median trip duration was 16 days.

In 2019, prior to the pandemic, the median duration of short-term resident trips was 14 days, but median duration of stay increased during the pandemic.

The median duration varied between the states and territories and between the numerous destination countries.

• Top 10 destination countries have been calculated at the Australia level.

Residents visiting India stayed away the longest of the top 10 destination countries, with a median duration of 29 days.

Residents travelling to Fiji had a median duration of 7 days, which was the shortest of the top 10 destination countries.

The duration of stay of short-term trips by Australian residents going overseas varied according to reason for journey. Those travelling for:

• 'Employment' stayed away the longest (24 days)
• 'Visiting friends/relatives' (23 days)
• 'Education' (21 days)
• 'Holiday' (14 days)
• 'Convention/conference' (9 days)
• 'Business' stayed the shortest (8 days).

Recent changes

All references to 'gaza strip and west bank' have been updated to 'occupied palestinian territories'.

From 14/5/2024 all references to 'Gaza Strip and West Bank' have been updated to 'Occupied Palestinian Territories' to align with an update to the Standard Australian Classification of Countries (SACC) . 

Data downloads

1. Additional provisional data is available under the Data downloads for State of clearance (Table 13), Country of citizenship (Table 14), and Visa group (Table 15). No further breakdowns of provisional data are available, other than those which appear in this release.

2. The ABS identified a data quality issue with OAD processing which affected the state of clearance and visa grouping data. As a result, Overseas Arrivals and Departures data from September 2007 to August 2015 was revised and released in the March 2023 publication.  A further revision to data from July 2007 to June 2017 was released in the April 2023 publication. For further information see Methodology page, in the History of changes section for the year 2007. 

3. Due to improvements made to the quality of the imputations used to estimate duration of stay, OAD data from January to March 2022 has been revised and released in the April 2022 issue.  These imputations use historical data and have been impacted by changed travel behaviour during the COVID-19 travel restrictions period. For further information see Methodology page in the History of changes section for the year 2022.

4. The ABS identified a data quality issue with the source data which affected the state and territory of stay/residence data.  As a result, Overseas Arrivals and Departures data from July 2021 to February 2022 was revised and released in the March 2022 issue. For further information see Methodology page in the History of changes section for the year 2022.

5. For all Short-term Visitor Arrivals (STVA) and Short-term Resident Returns (STRR) series, the trend estimates have been suspended from February 2020 and the seasonally adjusted estimates have been suspended from April 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel. For more information, see the Seasonally adjusted and trend estimates section in the Methodology page associated with this release.

6. The quality of the imputation used to estimate duration of stay for some resident departures was impacted by changed travel behaviour during COVID-19 travel restrictions. The proportional split between short-term resident departures and long-term resident departures was impacted from April 2020 to December 2021. Where possible, instead of departure volumes, we recommend clients use short-term resident returns and long-term resident returns for greater accuracy. For more information on how this variable is imputed, please see paragraph 28 of the Imputations and derivations section of the Methodology page.

7. Occasionally situations occur that necessitate breaks being applied to the trend series. For an overview of the breaks currently included in the trend series, see paragraph 14 of the Seasonally adjusted and trend estimates section in the Methodology.

8. For further information about the data, including updates or changes, see the Methodology page.

Time series spreadsheets

Table 1: total movement, arrivals - category of movement, table 2: total movement, departures - category of movement, table 3: short-term movement, visitors arriving - selected countries of residence: trend, table 4: short-term movement, visitors arriving - selected countries of residence: seasonally adjusted, table 5: short-term movement, visitors arriving - selected countries of residence: original, table 6: short-term movement, visitors arriving - intended length of stay and main reason for journey: original, table 7: short-term movement, residents returning - selected destinations: trend, table 8: short-term movement, residents returning - selected destinations: seasonally adjusted, table 9: short-term movement, residents returning - selected destinations: original, table 10: short-term movements, residents returning - length of stay and main reason for journey: original, table 11: short-term movement, visitors arriving - state of intended stay: original, table 12: short-term movement, residents returning - state of residence: original, table 13: total arrivals and total departures - state of residence/stay and state of clearance, table 14: total arrivals and total departures - country of citizenship, table 15: total arrivals and total departures - visa group, table 16: total arrivals - state of residence/stay by visa group, table 17: total departures - state of residence/stay by visa group, data explorer datasets.

Two Overseas Arrivals and Departures datasets are available in Data Explorer.

1.  Visitor arrivals and resident returns, Selected Countries of Residence/Destinations

2.  Visitor arrivals and resident returns, Intended Length of Stay and Main Reason for Journey

Caution: Data in Data Explorer is currently released after the 11:30am release on the ABS website. Please check the reference period when using Data Explorer.

For information on Data Explorer and how it works, see the  Data Explorer user guide .

This release contains overseas movement data which should not be interpreted as 'persons'. See the Scope section, paragraph 1 in the Methodology for more detail.

The statistics in this release have been rounded. See the Confidentiality section in the Methodology for more detail.

For enquiries about these and related statistics, contact the Customer Assistance Service via the ABS website  Contact Us  page. The  ABS Privacy Policy  outlines how the ABS will handle any personal information that you provide to the ABS.

Previous catalogue number

This release previously used catalogue number 3401.0.

Methodology

Do you need more detailed statistics, request data.

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Bali Travel Regulations

Bali entry requirments and regulations.

Stay updated with the official government regulations regarding Bali Entry Requirements .

General Travel

General travel requirements to Bali include Customs, Covid Vaccination status, plus more.

Below we will answer all the questions you may have about your eligibility to enter Bali.

Visa Regulations

Bali Visa regulations relate to how long you plan to stay in Bali, Visa on Arrival, B211a, Valid and expired passports etc.

You may find on our Bali Visa Page .

Bali Quarantine and Travel Requirements

Are there international flights to bali.

ABSOLUTELY. The number of flights to Bali may be lesser than before. Still, airlines are gradually including it again in their schedules, with airfares increasing significantly due to the pandemic – Singapore Air, KLM, Qatar, and Jetstar are among them. However, they aren’t as frequent anymore.

Do I Need a Visa to Enter Bali?

Depending on your nationality, the purpose of travel and the duration of stay, you can find out what documents are required for your visit. Please click the button below to check which visa requirements apply to you.

Bali Visa Regulations.

Do I Need a B211A Visit Visa?

If your country is not included in the list of visa-free and Visa on Arrival to Bali countries, or if you are planning to stay for more than 60 days, then a B211A Visit Visa is necessary. It’s worth noting that the original Visa on Arrival has been improved, so it now covers business meetings, sourcing and purchasing goods, transit activities, and government duties.

Can I Visit Bali Now?

Exciting news for international travellers! Indonesia has relaxed most of its travel restrictions and visa requirements, enabling visitors to explore the country’s gorgeous landscapes. However, specific steps still need to be taken to enter Indonesia safely and hassle-free; let this page guide you through these crucial details so your trip is smooth sailing!

Covid Requirements for Travelling to Bali?

Travellers who are fully vaccinated DO NOT need to quarantine and can now travel into Indonesia without a PCR test.

After receiving two (or more) doses of Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, or other approved COVID-19 vaccinations , travellers can confidently enter Bali, Indonesia with peace of mind that they are safe from any potential risk of catching it more in Bali than anywhere else in the world. 

Unvaccinated

For the unvaccinated, entry into Bali/Indonesia is possible; however, only with a Medical Exemption Letter. Your doctor should provide this letter and explain any comorbid diseases or other conditions that would prevent you from receiving vaccinations.

However, this will not apply if you remain unvaccinated due to personal choices rather than medical reasons – in which case entry will unfortunately not be permitted.

If you have already recovered from Covid-19 and only received one dose of the vaccine, a recovery certificate will be required to travel to Bali. This document proves that you are no longer an active transmitter of Covid-19. Without this certificate, entry into Bali is strictly prohibited.

Proof of Vaccination

To travel to Bali, Indonesia, you must present a valid digital or printed proof of Covid Vaccination with the final dose taken 14 days prior. Although officials may not check your status upon arrival in Indonesia, airlines typically verify this requirement when checking in. Therefore, you must meet this criterion for entry.

Date of Vaccination (Expiry)

Currently, Indonesia does not have an expiration date for vaccinations; instead, it simply monitors the number of vaccinated people.

At this moment, no other quarantine conditions are necessary. You will be qualified to enter Indonesia following the abovementioned regulations, or you won’t be able to make your way into the country. 

Regulations can often fluctuate, and different airlines may enforce the rules more strictly than others. Unfortunately, some carriers might even struggle to stay up-to-date with changing regulations and could ask for documentation that is no longer necessary. Consequently, verifying your airline’s requirements before you travel to Indonesia is essential to avoid any unnecessary complications during your trip.

What Other Documents Do I Need for Bali?

Accelerate your arrival in Bali by completing the ONLINE Customs Declaration Form: E-CD (Electronic Custom Declaration).

Airlines and immigration authorities may require you to have a return ticket within the time frame of your visa validity.

Also, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from arrival, or they will deny entry! Finally, fill out all paperwork BEFORE you arrive to save time in airport customs when visiting Bali.

It is essential to ensure your passport has an empty page before embarking on any international journey.

Additionally, please be aware that Emergency Passports and Temporary Travel Documents are no longer acceptable forms of travel documentation.

To assist with a smooth transition amid this pandemic, we strongly recommend downloading a “Travel Health App” before travelling abroad for all necessary health advisories and updates.

Bali Travel Regulations FAQs

Those under 18 years of age typically don’t require vaccinations; however, if they apply for a B211A Visa (not the one issued upon arrival), they must provide a medical statement indicating why vaccination is impossible.

Following January 2023, the President officially abolished all COVID-related travel limitations (PPKM measures), such as testing and mask-wearing. As a result, the situation is entirely under control, with so many millions of people now vaccinated.

Forget about the dreaded PCR Test when entering Bali / Indonesia; all travellers must be fully vaccinated unless they have a medical exemption stating otherwise.

With multiple medical insurance providers available with a simple Google search, finding coverage for your trip to Bali is easier than ever. However, it’s important to note that travel medical insurance isn’t required. Here’s our top-rated Bali insurance provider .

It depends on where you are flying from; however, if you don’t have the funds to fly direct to Bali, no worries! You can still get a ticket from Jakarta at an affordable 50-150 USD rate. In addition, airlines such as Citilink, Batik Air, Air Asia, Lion Air and Garuda offer regular flights that make this journey possible easily. So if the direct flight is too expensive for your budget, it might be well worth considering a domestic flight.

To ensure compliance with local regulations, please refrain from bringing more than the equivalent of IDR 100,000,000 (ca. AUD 10,000) cash into the country. 

Travelers to Bali need at least one COVID-19 vaccination. For air travel, a PCR test no older than 48 hours is mandatory. For other transports, an antigen test within 24 hours is sufficient.

Visitors need a valid visa and an undamaged passport. Additionally, certain forms and apps are required upon arrival, and transit rules apply.

Tourists must stay in registered hotels and villas. Unlicensed accommodations like certain Airbnb rentals are not permitted.

International travelers must complete an Indonesia e-CD form, applicable to all parts of Indonesia, including Bali.

Travelers should be up-to-date with routine vaccinations like measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and influenza before visiting Bali.

Australians need a valid passport with six months’ validity and at least one blank page. Temporary passports are not accepted.

Australians require a passport with at least 6 months validity, a return or onward flight booking, and proof of COVID-19 vaccinations.

Foreign travelers must undergo a health check upon arrival in Indonesia, including body temperature checks.

A new law prohibiting cohabitation and sex outside marriage is set to come into effect in three years, potentially impacting tourism.

Australian passport holders need a visa to enter Bali, available upon arrival at Indonesian airports for certain stay durations.

Bringing more than IDR 100 million (around $6,500 USD) requires declaration at customs.

Travelers are allowed to bring 1 liter of alcoholic products per person. Excess amounts are subject to fines or confiscation.

It’s a mandatory form for declaring personal or excess goods for tax purposes, to be completed before arrival.

Mosquitoes can be prevalent in Bali, so it’s advisable to use repellents and take precautions, especially during the rainy season.

Bali is generally safe for tourists, with only a few experiencing problems. Common sense and awareness are key to a safe visit.

The Visa on Arrival for Bali costs around AUD$50 (IDR 500,000).

Consult with a healthcare provider for specific advice. Commonly recommended items include pain relievers, antihistamines, and medications for stomach ailments.

Yes, it’s important to consider travel insurance for Bali to cover unforeseen medical and travel-related incidents.

Bali’s governor has stated that tourists’ marital status will not be checked under the new law, which is not yet in effect.

The Visa on Arrival costs approximately USD $35, valid for 30 days and extendable for another 30 days at a local immigration office.

While new laws criminalizing sex outside marriage are pending, tourists are currently not charged under these laws.

Australian drivers need both their national license and an international permit for proper insurance coverage and legality in Bali.

Cash is generally preferred in smaller towns and rural areas, while cards are widely accepted in larger cities.

You can use your phone in Bali by getting an Indonesian SIM card, provided your phone is unlocked.

Most Australian debit cards, especially those affiliated with Mastercard or Visa, are widely accepted in Bali. Before traveling, inform your bank of your trip to avoid unexpected card cancellations.

Travelers to Indonesia are allowed to carry a reasonable amount of perfume, along with specific allowances for tobacco and alcohol, adhering to the customs regulations.

Declare all purchased items, gifts, and business-related goods at customs. This includes duty-free purchases and items received as gifts or for business use.

Australians require a tourist visa for visits up to 30 days in Bali, effective from May 2022.

The Bali visa-on-arrival fee can be paid in several currencies, including AUD, at designated airport counters.

Bali’s departure tax is now included in the airline ticket price, eliminating the need for separate payment at the airport.

Ibuprofen and similar over-the-counter medications are generally allowed in Bali, but prescription drugs should be accompanied by a doctor’s note, especially if they contain controlled substances like codeine.

Australians traveling to Bali need a valid passport, visa, EVOA application, and compliance with COVID-19 health measures, including the PeduliLindungi app.

While holding hands is common, more intimate gestures like kissing are generally not practiced in public in Bali, in line with local customs.

Despite laws against cohabitation and extramarital relations, unmarried tourists commonly share rooms in Bali without legal issues.

Pre-arranging a visa online is recommended to avoid long queues at the airport, allowing more time for vacation activities.

Tourists can bring up to IDR 100 million (around US $6,500) without declaring it. Amounts exceeding this limit must be declared.

Two men can share a room in Bali without issues, though public displays of affection are generally discouraged.

Moderate public displays of affection like hugging are acceptable in Bali, especially among friends, but overtly sexual behavior is frowned upon.

Australians can stay in Bali for 30 days with a Visa on Arrival, with the possibility of a 30-day extension through specific agencies.

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Malaysia.

Malaysia (PDF 367.29 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on 321 159 999 or 322 662 222.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities.

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities, due to the high threat of kidnapping. The risk of kidnapping increases on the water and waterfront after nightfall and is highest in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau.

See Safety .

• There's an ongoing high risk of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah. There have been a number of attempted and successful kidnappings. This includes islands, dive sites and tourist facilities. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice. Obey all local governments' curfews.
• Terrorism is a threat. Possible targets include businesses and public areas popular with foreigners. Take official warnings seriously.
• Petty crime is common. Bag-snatching, including by thieves on motorbikes, happens often. When walking, hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic. Safeguard your belongings, especially in shopping centres, at the airport and on trains. Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your credit card in sight when paying for purchases.
• Assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking can occur, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.
• Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. If you intend to travel in the region by boat, check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports . Arrange personal security measures.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia.
• Dengue fever is common, including in major urban areas. Zika virus is also a risk. Malaria is a risk in rural areas. Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya, filariasis and Japanese encephalitis. 
• Rabies is present in Malaysia. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and other mammals. Get medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you.
• Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, tuberculosis, typhoid and cholera. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Private hospitals in major cities are of an international standard. You'll need to pay up-front at all hospitals unless you have travel insurance, and your travel insurance policy covers your hospitalisation. Services are more limited in rural areas. Government hospitals require a deposit even if you have travel insurance.
• Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah. Ensure you're immunised against pertussis and practice good personal hygiene.

Full travel advice: Health

• If you're suspected of using drugs, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival in Malaysia. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. Penalties for drug offences are severe. 
• Don't use, carry or traffic illegal drugs. Punishments include the death penalty.
• It's unclear if surrogacy is legal under Malaysian civil law and what conditions apply. Get legal advice before arranging a surrogacy.

Malaysian law requires that you carry identification, such as your passport or a Malaysian Immigration Issued Card (IKAD), with you at all times. If you are asked by police and are unable to provide it, you may be detained until you can present valid identification.

• Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country. Many areas have conservative standards of dress and behaviour, including at religious sites and government offices. Get advice on local customs.
• Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including visitors from Australia. Research laws that apply to you before you travel.
• Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport. If Malaysian authorities find out you're a dual citizen, you may need to renounce one of your citizenships immediately, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You must complete a  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)  before arrival in Malaysia. The MDAC must be submitted through the  Malaysian Immigration website . See the  Malaysian Immigration website  for further information, including exemption details.

• In most circumstances, you can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Malaysian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate for the latest details.
• Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian travellers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their  Malaysian Digital Arrival Card  (MDAC) 3 days before arriving. The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card  website.
• Monitor the websites of the  Malaysian Department of Immigration,  My Safe Travel , the  Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes to entry requirements. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the  Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorist attacks could happen in Malaysia. Attacks could be random and may affect locations popular with Westerners or during major events or holidays that attract large crowds.

Malaysian authorities have arrested people for planning terror attacks. This includes attacks against entertainment venues in Kuala Lumpur.

Other possible targets include:

• hotels, clubs and restaurants
• places of worship or religious holidays
• outdoor recreation events
• tourist areas

To stay safe:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• be cautious around places known to be possible terrorist targets
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• check the media for any new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Terrorist threats

Overland travel through Thailand

Read our travel advice for Thailand if you're planning to go there overland.

Avoid travelling to or through the far southern provinces of Thailand.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

There's an ongoing high threat of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah, including islands, dive sites and other tourist facilities.

Extremists based in the southern Philippines are active in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau in eastern Sabah.

Foreigners have been kidnapped from the nearby islands of Sipadan and Mataking and surrounding waters.

Some attempted and successful kidnappings have happened in coastal areas of eastern Sabah in recent years.

• In April 2024, two Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency personnel were injured in a shootout with a suspicious vessel while on patrol near Kunak.
• In May 2021, Malaysian authorities arrested eight suspected Abu Sayyaf militants who they suspect may have been planning kidnappings in Malaysia.
• In September 2019, 3 fishermen were abducted in the waters off Lahad Datu.
• In June 2019, 10 fishermen were abducted in waters between Lahad Datu, Sabah and Sitangkai, Southern Philippines.
• In December 2018, 3 fishermen were abducted from Pegasus Reef near Kinabatangan, Sabah.
• In November 2016, militants based in the southern Philippines attacked a yacht in waters between eastern Sabah and the Sulu archipelago. One German national was killed and another kidnapped and later killed.  Further in 2016, some commercial seamen were kidnapped from cargo vessels in the area.
• In May 2015, gunmen entered a local seaside restaurant in Sandakan and abducted the manager and one customer.

Malaysian authorities increased security in the region in response to kidnapping incidents. The Sabah Government has restricted the use of waterways.

Security measures

There's a 6pm to 6am curfew on water travel in 6 coastal districts of eastern Sabah state. This includes offshore areas up to 3 nautical miles (5.5km) from the coast.

All vessels travelling in the waters off Lahad Datu and Sandakan in daylight hours must get a permit or permission from police.

Vessels must travel only on designated routes.

There's a ban on resort-organised water activities at night. This includes diving and fishing.

Authorities established the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), which includes the regions of:

• Kinabatangan
• Kota Marudu

There's an increased presence of security forces in the ESSZone.

Authorities may extend the water travel curfew each fortnight. If you travel by water during curfew hours without permission, authorities could fine you or jail you for up to 6 months.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

Civil unrest and political tension

You could encounter protests or demonstrations on the streets or at certain venues.

Protest activity could lead to violence and disrupt public services, including public transport, and cause traffic congestion. However, this is rare.

Police permission is needed for public gatherings and demonstrations. If you take part in a protest or demonstration, authorities could arrest and deport you.

Avoid protests and demonstrations.

During periods of unrest:

• check the news and other sources for information on planned and possible unrest or strikes
• plan your activities to avoid unrest on national or commemorative days
• be ready to change your travel plans

If civil unrest disrupts your transport plans, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Petty crime is common.

Opportunistic pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab robberies happen often where thieves snatch handbags, shoulder bags, jewellery, mobile phones and other valuables from pedestrians.

Hotspots include busy pedestrian crossings near major shopping malls, including within the KLCC area.

Motorcyclists, and sometimes thieves in other moving vehicles, pull bags from victims. This often causes injuries.

Smash-and-grab attacks against slow-moving and parked vehicles also happen.

To avoid petty crime:

• don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
• walk on footpaths when you can and stay away from the curb
• hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic
• when driving or parking your car, keep valuables out of sight
• always keep vehicle windows up and doors locked, even when moving

Handbags, expensive watches, jewellery, mobile phones and cameras are tempting targets for thieves.

Many travellers have lost passports and other valuables to thieves on trains and at airports.

Carry only what you need and leave other valuables, in a secure location.

Thieves sometimes work in groups at busy shopping centres. One or more may approach you with stories of distress or warnings for your safety. When you're distracted, others steal your belongings.

Watch your personal belongings, especially:

• in crowded areas and during holiday periods
• when travelling on trains from the airport
• at airports

Be wary of approaches from strangers, especially in shopping centres.

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud is common.

Credit cards are often copied for illegal use. This can happen anywhere, from small shops to large department stores and hotels.

Always keep your credit card in sight.

Online scams

Online scams  have increased in recent years. Scammers often pretend to be people in need of financial help.

They prey on people looking for companions on online dating websites.

To protect yourself from being scammed:

• be wary of people asking for money
• don't send money or provide your bank details to anyone you don't know
• be careful when sharing personal information with people you haven't met in person

Scams involving gambling are also common.

Violent crime

You could experience violent crime in Malaysia. Australians have been victims of violent crime in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other areas of the country. You should exercise vigilance and take sensible precautions. If you're a victim of crime, inform the local police and get a police report.

Incidents of assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang have occured. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.

To stay safe while using taxis:

• don't hail taxis on the street, especially after dark
• book taxis by phone at a shopping centre taxi desk
• check there's a licence with photo on the dashboard or seat back before getting into a taxi
• check the driver matches the photo.

If you're alone in a taxi, sit in the back seat. Keep your belongings with you in the taxi.

If your taxi stops to pick up other passengers, get out of the taxi when it's safe to do so. Taxi drivers aren't allowed to pick up extra passengers, but it sometimes happens.

E-hailing services are available. Use the same precautions as taxis.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Malaysia experiences severe weather and natural disasters , including:

• earthquakes
• severe rainstorms

If there's a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• monitor local media and weather reports
• check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes can happen in Malaysia.

In 2018, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit Sabah. No deaths or injuries were reported. The earthquake's tremors were felt and climbing activities were suspended.

Coastal regions of the world can experience tsunamis. Malaysia and its neighbours are vulnerable to earthquakes, which make destructive tsunamis more likely.

US Tsunami Warning Centre

Severe weather

Flooding and landslides are common during the wet season which is usually from October to February.

Severe rainstorms can result in deaths and extensively damaged infrastructure.

Essential services can be interrupted.

Tours and adventure activities

The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators aren't always met. This includes for adventure activities, such as diving.

Operators may not provide enough safety equipment. They also may not pay attention to maintenance standards and safety precautions.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check your travel insurance covers you for it
• ask and insist on minimum safety requirements
• use available safety equipment, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem, especially in the:

• Strait of Malacca
• waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) issues weekly piracy reports.

Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. This includes waters between Sabah, Malaysia and Palawan in the Philippines.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

• check IMB piracy reports
• get local advice
• arrange security measures

Travelling by boat

• Going on a cruise

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations if, despite our advice, you're travelling to the coastal region of eastern Sabah.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. Contact the  high commission or embassy of Malaysia  to check what documentation local authorities may need you to have. Further information can be found on the  Pharmaceuticals Services website.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

More information: 

Health risks

Smoke haze often happens from June to October, but it can happen at any time.

Check the haze situation and any health warnings the Malaysian Government issues.

When haze levels are high, authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity. Get your own medical advice.

• World Air Quality

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue  is common, including in major urban areas. Sometimes serious outbreaks happen.

There's no vaccination or treatment available for dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

• discuss any travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

The Zika virus bulletin includes advice on how to minimise Zika virus risks.

Malaria is a risk in rural areas. It's less common in urban and coastal areas. Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases can happen. This includes chikungunya and filariasis .

Reported cases of Japanese encephalitis have increased in recent years. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel

The risk of contracting insect-borne diseases increases during the wet season.

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• always use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Ministry of Health Malaysia

Rabies is a potentially fatal viral disease. It's found in dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

The most recent cases were reported in Sarawak. It was transmitted through feral dog and cat bites.

Rabies can also be contracted when a rabid animal's saliva gets directly into your eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin.

Avoid direct contact with dogs and other mammals.

If a dog, monkey or other mammal bites or scratches you, use soap and water straight away to wash the wound thoroughly.

Get urgent medical attention.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common.

These include:

• tuberculosis
• hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• wash your hands often and thoroughly

Get medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah since the beginning of 2023. If you're planning to travel to Sabah:

• ensure you're immunised against pertussis
• practice good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing, not sharing drinks or lip balm
• keep your distance from people who appear sick
• seek medical attention if you develop symptoms

Infectious diseases

Marine stings

Stings from jellyfish and other marine animals can be fatal.

Ask local authorities, your tour operator or hotel about:

• swimming conditions
• precautions to take
• other dangers

Black henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos as they often contain a dye that can cause serious skin reactions.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

You can find private hospitals with international-standard facilities in major cities.

Public hospitals in major cities have a good range of medical services. However, access can be slow. Services are more limited in rural areas.

Most private hospitals need a cash deposit or a confirmation of insurance before they will admit you. They also expect immediate payment for services.

You need to pay up-front for treatment at government hospitals.

There are decompression chambers in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic surgery, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical facilities can be poor.

Serious and possibly life-threatening complications can result.

Before travelling for medical tourism:

• research and choose medical service providers carefully
• don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers
• check your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery, as most don't

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you're suspected of using drugs before you visit Malaysia, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. 

Penalties for drug offences are severe, including drug possession and the presence of drugs in your bloodstream. Malaysia still carries the death penalty for drug trafficking.

Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Malaysian civil law applies to everyone in Malaysia. Under this law, it's unclear if surrogacy is legal and what conditions apply.

Under sharia law, surrogacy is illegal. However, sharia law only applies to Muslims.

Surrogacy isn't practised openly in Malaysia. If you want to pursue surrogacy, it's mostly a private arrangement between you and the surrogate.

Get independent legal advice before entering into a surrogacy arrangement.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt

Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including those from Australia.

Research laws that apply to you before you travel.

Serious crime

Crimes that may attract corporal punishment include:

• certain drug offences
• commercial crime

LGBTQIA+ law

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal.

Punishment can include whipping and up to 20 years in prison for same-sex acts involving either men or women.

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Drink driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offence, which can result in fines and/or a jail sentence. Authorities strictly enforce these laws. 

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country.

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many areas. This includes at religious sites and government offices.

Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.

Learn about customs at your destination. If in doubt, get advice from locals. Take care not to offend cultural or religious beliefs.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan  is observed in Malaysia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Dual citizenship

Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

If Malaysian authorities find out you hold both Australian and Malaysian citizenship, you may need to renounce either your Australian or Malaysian citizenship straight away, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

In most circumstances, Australian passport holders can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. 

Arrange a visa before you travel if you're visiting for:

• volunteer work

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate  of Malaysia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

If you breach your visa conditions or overstay your visa, authorities may fine, detain or deport you.

Always check the correct dates are on the visa stamp placed in your passport.

Follow immigration rules, including your visa conditions.

Border measures

Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their  Malaysian Digital Arrival Card  (MDAC) 3 days before arriving.

The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card  website.

Entry requirements may change at short notice. Monitor the websites of the  Malaysian Department of Immigration ,  My Safe Travel , the  Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the  Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Staying in Malaysia

You should ensure you keep your visa up to date.

Other formalities

Foreigners need to provide biometric identification (fingerprints and/or face) on arrival.

Children aged younger than 12 years and visitors with finger disabilities don't have to do this.

Some countries including Malaysia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for more than 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

When you depart, declare any MYR over MYR30,000, $US10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can take larger amounts out of the country if you declare it when you arrive.

ATMs are widely available.

Local travel

If you travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, you need your passport. East Malaysia includes Sabah and Sarawak.

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for any related damage and injuries if you plan to hire:

• a motorcycle
• any other vehicle

Driving permit

To drive in Malaysia, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

If you don't have both, you need to apply for a Malaysian licence.

Driving or riding

Road travel

Motorcyclists are a common traffic hazard. They often:

• weave through traffic
• drive through red lights and pedestrian crossings
• travel on the wrong side of the road

Motorcyclists have been increasingly confronting drivers who shout, gesture or toot their horn at them. They sometimes assault drivers.

You're more likely to die in a car accident in Malaysia than in Australia.

To stay safe, drive carefully and avoid road rage.

On a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Some taxi drivers, especially in tourist spots or when roads are jammed, don't use their meter. This is illegal.

Malaysia's taxi regulator has an English-language hotline for reporting problems. To make a report, call 1 800 88 7723 and provide the:

• vehicle number
• taxi company name
• time, date and location of the incident
• name of the driver if known

Always ask if the driver will use the meter, or agree the fare, before you get in a taxi.

At the start of your trip, take note of the vehicle number, the taxi company name and the name of the driver.

Public transport

There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses. This often happens at night or in bad weather.

If you plan to travel by bus, choose a company with a good reputation and avoid overnight travel.

Transport and getting around safely

In recent years, several passenger boats have sunk due to overloading and poor maintenance.

Before booking tickets on a passenger ferry, speedboat or other vessel, check there is appropriate safety equipment available.

Don't travel on any vessel that looks overloaded or in poor condition.

When you board, confirm there are enough life jackets for all passengers. Know where they are.

In bad weather, wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

There is a curfew on travel by water from 6pm to 6am in the coastal districts of eastern Sabah. See ( Safety) .

Airline safety

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Malaysia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

National parks

National parks are protected areas, and some are home to ethnic minority groups.

Be respectful of the law and customs in these areas. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Don't remove any wildlife or plants from the park.

Before entering a park, register your plans with park officials and let someone you trust know where you're going.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on +60321 159 999 or Royal Malaysia Headquarters (Bukit Aman) +603 22662 222.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.

Australian High Commission, Kuala Lumpur

6 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng 50450 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Phone: (+60 3) 2146 5555/2146 5575 Fax: (+60 3) 2141 5773 Website: malaysia.highcommission.gov.au Email: [email protected] Facebook: Australia in Malaysia X: @AusHCMalaysia

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You can get limited consular help, including lodging Australian passport applications, at the following Australian consulates headed by honorary consuls:

Australian Consulate, Penang

Level 3 Jalan Macalister  10400 Penang Malaysia Phone: (+60 4) 226 8955 Fax: (+60 4) 228 3366 Email: [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Kota Kinabalu

Lot 01-05, 11th Floor Jubili Tower (Menara Jubili) 53, Jalan Gaya 88000 Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia Phone: (+60 88) 267 151 Fax: (+60 88) 266 509 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Sarawak

E39 Level 2 Taman Sri Sarawak Mall Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia Phone: (+60 19) 898 9787 Email: [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Australia entry requirements for Canadian Citizens

Australia is one of the top 15 destinations for Canadians worldwide , according to Statistics Canada. That’s why it is important for visitors from Canada to know exactly what they need to travel Down Under.

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Australia?

Yes, Canadians will need a visa to travel to Australia with a passport issued by Canada. In fact, almost all foreign nationals must have an appropriate type of Australia visa before departure.

Canadian passport holders can obtain a convenient electronic travel authorisation (ETA) by applying online.

Please note that there are no visas on arrival for Australia available to Canadians.

What Australian visa type should Canadians apply for?

Canadian nationals can apply for an ETA Australia if the purpose of their trip is one of the following:

• Visiting family and friends
• Business meetings or conferences
• Transit on the way to another country

The following activities are also permitted with the ETA , as long as they are a secondary reason for visiting — the main reason must be one of those listed above.

• Volunteering
• Short-term study

Please note that long-term studying or engaging in paid work while travelling on an ETA is not permitted . Canadian travellers who wish to work in Australia should contact their nearest embassy or consulate for more information about working and study visas.

Working holiday visas are available for Canadians under the age of 35 who wish to explore Australia on a budget.

Australia's ETA requirements for Canadian nationals

All travellers must meet Australian ETA requirements for Canada before applying for an ETA. These requirements are:

• Have a valid Canadian passport
• Have an active email address for correspondence on ETA-related issues and obtaining the visa itself
• Have a valid credit or debit card for online ETA fee payment

Some travellers may be asked to provide further documentation , depending on the reasons for their travel.

In addition, Canadian applicants must meet certain other criteria to be granted the ETA:

• Must be in good health (no serious contagious illnesses)
• Must not have a criminal record that includes serious offences or prison sentences of a year or more

It is important to keep in mind that an ETA or another type of Australian visa does not guarantee entry into Australia. This right can only be granted by the Australian Border Force officers at the border crossing.

ETA Australia: passport conditions for Canadians

The applicant’s Canadian passport must meet the following requirements:

• Valid for the length of the trip to Australia
• One or more blank pages available for entry stamps

When applying for an ETA for Australia, Canadian citizens who are dual nationals must use either their valid Canadian passport or one issued by another country eligible for the ETA.

It is important to apply for an ETA Australia with the same passport that will be presented at the border crossing . This passport is then registered electronically to the ETA. Without it, the visitor will be denied entry.

Australia's health requirements for Canadian travellers

Canadian travellers must meet the Australian health requirements to be granted entry into the country. This means that they must not have any health conditions that could result in becoming a burden to the Australian health system.

It is important to not have highly infectious diseases, that may represent a threat to the Australian community, like tuberculosis.

How to use the ETA to travel to Australia from Canada

Airline staff will usually check that you have an ETA before boarding a flight from Canada . In general, airlines will not allow you to board without one.

Once you land in Australia, you will need the ETA to clear immigration. This is done electronically by scanning your Canadian passport .

If you have an electronic Canadian passport , you will be able to use the automated SmartGate system to clear border control quickly upon arrival in Australia at 9 major international airports:

You can also show your passport to a border officer, who will scan it to check your ETA.

Register with the High Commission of Canada in Australia

We offer an Embassy Registration service for Canadian travellers. This service exists in case of emergency situations while you are abroad.

The Canadian High Commission in Canberra will be able to contact you and provide assistance in the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster or terrorist incident.

The High Commission can also help family and friends in Canada to contact you and vice versa.

You can register your details with the High Commission of Canada in Australia while applying for your ETA through our website . Simply choose the Embassy Registration option when completing the ETA application.

The registration process only takes a minute and gives you peace of mind while visiting Australia.

Faqs about Canadian Citizens traveling to Australia

What documents do canadians need to enter australia.

As a Canadian citizen visiting Australia, they will need a valid Canadian passport and an ETA or visa, depending on the length and purpose of your stay.

How do you apply for an Australian ETA for Canadians?

To apply for an Australian ETA from Canada, candidates must fill out an online application form and provide the ETA information details. After reviewing and confirming the information, applicants need to pay the Australian ETA registration fee using a debit or credit card.

Are there any COVID-19 health requirements for Canadians visiting Australia?

There are currently no COVID-19 restrictions for Canadians entering Australia . However, this could change if the global situation worsens. Always check the latest information before traveling.

Can Canadian citizens live in Australia?

If you wish to immigrate to Australia from Canada, you must meet the necessary criteria based on: Qualifications, Skills, Work experience. In general, Australia only accepts foreign professionals and tradespeople who plan to work in sectors where the country needs more workers. Canadians who meet the requirements can apply for a long-term Australian visa .

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Bali Visa Requirements for Australian Travelers

Indonesia visa for australians (au).

Entering Bali / Indonesia with a Passport from Australia

What are the Visa Regulations for Australians to visit Bali / Indonesia?

Your length of stay in bali will determine what type of visa for indonesia (tourist visa | holiday visa) applies to you .

Note: Following regulations apply to travelers who hold an Australian passport. An Australian residency is not enough. Visas are generally granted based on your citizenship / passport. 

With an Australian passport you can choose between following Visa Types:

Bali visa requirements for indonesia for nationalities eligible for a visa on arrival - with travel purpose tourism , social visit, meetings, sourcing.

Important: Make sure your passport is valid at least 6 months from the day of entry. No exceptions. See Passport Requirements

A. If you stay less than 30 days in Indonesia

• Visit Visa (also known as Visa on Arrival . (Info, Costs, Application Link, FAQ , can be purchased online!

B. If you stay between 30 or 60 Days in Indonesia

• Visit Visa ( Visa on Arrival) but needs to be extended once for 30 days. (Info, Prices, FAQ)
• or, you can get a 211A Visa, valid for 60 days (Info, Prices, FAQ, Online Application Service, Requirements)

C. If you stay more than 60 Days in Indonesia

• 211A Visa, valid for 60 days, can be extended twice while in Indonesia for 60 days each (Info, Prices, FAQ, Online Application).

If you are looking for a long stay Visa, Temporary Resident Permit, KITAS, Remote worker Visa etc, have a look at our Indonesia Visa Overview

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• Complete Travel Guide

Visa on Arrival / Visit Visa Information

• How much does the Visitor Visa / Visa on Arrival (VoA) Cost - what are the Visa fees?
• How long is the Visa on Arrival valid?
• Where can I get the Visa on Arrival, Tourist Visa?

Please find all UPDATED information about the Visit Visa / Visa on Arrival here:

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Indonesia Visa on Arrival (VOA): Eligibility and Requirements

Published: May 13, 2024

Indonesia Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available for most countries in the world. Eligible nationalities can obtain VOA at many of Indonesia’s airports, seaports, and land borders.

The procedure to obtain VOA is very easy. The requirements for VOA are also quite relaxed. Moreover, it has recently become possible to extend VOA online just like Indonesia’s other tourist visas.

Quick summary:

• Eligibility: 97 countries
• Duration of stay: 30 days
• VOA Fee: 500.000 IDR (~30 USD)
• Extension: Once for 30 days more

If you haven’t already, read the Indonesia Visa Guide for information on various visa types for tourists, their eligibility and requirements.

Table of Contents

Understanding indonesia visa on arrival.

VOA validity

Indonesia VOA is valid for 30 days. 

You pay and receive your VOA. But once you pass immigration, a “Stay Permit” is issued in your passport which allows you to remain in Indonesia for 30 days.

Any extensions of your visa are technically extensions of your “Stay Permit”. We will look into stay permit extensions later in this article. 

Duration of stay

The maximum duration of stay for Indonesia VOA is 30 days.

The day you land is considered Day 1. The last day you are allowed to stay in Indonesia will be written on your “Stay Permit” passport stamp next to “Valid Until”.

For example, if you land on 01 April 2024, you must leave Indonesia on or before 30 April 2024. 

Allowed number of entries

Indonesia VOA is single-entry only. Once you leave Indonesia, your VOA is void. If you want to reenter later, you will need to obtain a new VOA.

Allowed ports of entry

You can obtain an Indonesia Visa on Arrival at almost any international airport, seaport, and overland border, including Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Medan, Makassar, etc.

Here is the full list.

Land borders

Voa extension.

Indonesia VOA is extendable one time for an additional 30 days.

You will receive a “Stay Permit” of 30 days when you obtain VOA. This stay permit can be extended for an additional 30 days for a total of 60 days stay in Indonesia. 

The extended duration is added to the original duration. Even if you extend early, you will get 60 days in total.

For example, if you enter Indonesia using VOA on 01 April 2024 and extend your stay permit on 15 April 2024, you will receive your extension until 30 May 2024. That means you must leave Indonesia on or before 30 May 2024.

Indonesia Visa on Arrival Requirements

Who is eligible for Indonesia VOA

In total, 97 countries are eligible for the Indonesia Visa on Arrival This includes the 9 ASEAN countries plus Timor-Leste that are visa-exempt.

Visa-Exemption is non-extendable where as VOA is. Therefore, if you come from a Visa-Exempt country, you can still obtain a VOA if you plan to stay longer than 30 days. 

This is the full list of eligible countries:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

Documents required for VOA

The following documents are required for Indonesia VOA.

Boarding pass

Return or onward ticket.

VOA is issued either when paying for the VOA or when clearing immigration. You will be asked to present these documents wherever the VOA is issued. 

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when entering Indonesia. Your passport must also contain at least one blank page. The VOA and Stay Permit stickers take at least half a page. 

You may or may not be asked to present your boarding pass for the flight you have arrived from. This depends on the airport and immigration officer. 

Personal experience

While paying for my VOA at Bali airport, I somehow lost my boarding pass for the flight I arrived on. Luckily the immigration officer did not ask for my boarding pass. I cannot guarantee whether or not a boarding pass is required for VOA. But if it is, make sure to hold on to it till you clear immigration.

You may be asked to present proof of onward travel . You can present your ticket out of Indonesia within 30 days.

If you have plans to extend your visa and have a ticket out in 60 days, you may have to do some explaining especially at the flight check-in. Immigration is aware so they may understand. To be on the safe side, you can get an onward ticket within 30 days to avoid questions. 

Visa on Arrival fee

The Visa on Arrival fee is 500,000 IDR (around 30 USD). You can pay in IDR or another common foreign currency like the USD, EUR, or AUD.

At some airports, for example, Jakarta and Bali, you may pay by credit or debit card.

There are ATMs just beside the Visa on Arrival payment desks.

Visa on Arrival Process at Bali Airport

Obtaining VOA at Bali Airport (Ngurah Rai International Airport – DPS) is a 2-step process.

Step 1: VOA Payment

Step 2: voa issuance.

When you arrive at the Ngurah Rai International Airport, follow the signs and walk towards immigration. 

Near the immigration, you will see the signs for “VOA Payment”. Approach a VOA payment desk and present your passport. 

You will be asked for your preferred currency for payment. Tell them your preferred currency and they will tell you the exact amount you must pay in that currency.

For Indonesian Rupiah, it’s 500,000 IDR. But for other currencies, it varies depending on the exchange rate. 

In March 2024, it was 33 USD. 

After processing your VOA payment, they will return your passport with 2 copies of the VOA payment receipt. 

At Ngurah Rai International Airport, VOA is issued at the immigration. So after paying the VOA fee, head to the immigration and join the lines. 

When it’s your turn, present your passport, boarding pass and the 2 copies of your VOA fee to the immigration officer.

The immigration officer will stick VOA and Stay Permit stickers in your passport. They will retain one copy of the VOA fee. The immigration officer will give your passport and one copy of your VOA fee back to you.

The immigration officer may or may not ask for your onward ticket. They also may or may not ask any questions. 

Personal Experience I was asked how many days I plan to stay in Bali and a copy of my onward ticket.

After receiving your passport, check your stay permit to make sure all information is accurate including your “date of entry” and “valid until”. 

After immigration, fill out the electronic customs declaration and scan the QR code to clear the customs and enter Indonesia

How to Extend Indonesia VOA

Extend online.

Indonesian Immigration is moving toward a complete digitalization of its visas, including making the Visa on Arrival extendable online.

It should be possible to extend VOA online in a manner similar to the extension process for the eVOA.

Prerequisites

When you land, you will be asked to register an account with one of the visa websites: Evisa or Molina . Make sure to use a valid email address.

Shortly after passing immigration, you will receive an email from “DIREKTORAT JENDERAL IMIGRASI REPUBLIK INDONESIA”  saying that “Your ITAS has been activated”. What this effectively means is that you now have a valid stay permit.

The email may also contain a PDF attachment of the stay permit.

How to Extend Online

To extend the VOA, you should go to the Home Page of either visa website and click on “Extend My Visa”. This will bring you to the Retrieve Page .

After you enter your personal details, a list of your past and current visas will show up. Click the “Details” button next to your most recent one, then click the “Extend” button. Then just follow the procedure.

You will have to submit a PDF of your passport, an onward flight ticket and complete the application form, then pay. The extension is issued automatically and sent to your email as a PDF attachment.

Extend In Person (Offline)

If you encounter any problems with the online extension, you can extend by visiting the Immigration Office (Kantor Imigrasi) in person.

You can do so independently by going to the nearest office. You will have to visit 3 times in total:

• On the first visit, you will hand over your passport and pay.
• A few days later you will have to go back and complete biometrics – fingerprints and a photo.
• When the extension is ready you will be notified via email. Go back one last time to collect your passport with the visa extension stamp.

Alternatively, you can use one of the many visa extension agents. They will charge you a premium (usually around 800.000 IDR instead of the standard 500.000 IDR for extending) but you will only have to go to Immigration once for the biometrics. The agent will take care of the whole process for you. Some will even pick you up and drive you to the Immigration Office when it’s time.

Do not leave doing the extension until the last moment. The whole process takes about a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is indonesia visa on arrival free.

It used to be before 2020. Today, the VOA costs 500.000 IDR for all.

Can I enter Bali without a Visa?

If you’re from one of the ASEAN countries + Timor Leste, then you’re eligible for a visa exemption. For everybody else, you must have a visa or get a visa on arrival.

Can I pay for a visa on arrival in Bali by card?

Yes, Bali Denpasar Airport accepts card payments for the VOA.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Qantas announces major change to Asia network including one route to China axed

Just nine months after bringing back a once mammoth route for the airline, Qantas have announced a suspension for travellers.

Brutal new blow for hundreds of staff

Good news for Aussies heading overseas

Qantas scraps major China route

Just nine months after launching, Australian airline Qantas has announced the suspension of a major route from Australia into China.

The national carrier, which resumed its Sydney to Shanghai route in October last year after it was axed during Covid, has failed to reach pre-pandemic demand.

As a result, the route will cease from July 28, 2024 with the airline continuing to monitor the Australia-China market. When demand appears to lift, the airline may consider bringing back the route.

“Since Covid, the demand for travel between Australia and China has not recovered as strongly as expected,” Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said in a statement.

“In some months, our flights to and from Shanghai have been operating around half full. “That’s why we’ve decided to suspend this route and boost flying to other popular destinations with a new route from Brisbane to Manila and additional flights to Singapore and Bengaluru. Mr Wallace said the move will create more choice for our corporate and leisure customers and make it “even easier” for them to access the places they need to travel to in Asia.

“We’ll continue to maintain a presence in China through our partners and our existing flights to Hong Kong and look to return to Shanghai in the future.”

Customers with booking to Shanghai after July 27 will be contacted and offered a full refund, Qantas says.

According to recent analysis from AMP, while the end of 2022 and into 2023 started to see recovery for Australia’s international travel sector — extensive international border closures compared to the rest of the world along with high inflation lifting airfare and travel costs and logistic challenges related to Covid (like testing requirements) slowed demand from certain markets.

“A shortage of Chinese arrivals since 2020 (which used to make up a decent 15 per cent of

Australian short-term visitors) due to prolonged Covid-19 restrictions has also weighed on tourism in recent years,” the 2023 tourism analysis read.

“China is now reopening its economy and reinstating inbound and outbound tourism which will lead to a pick-up in Chinese arrivals in coming months (although it will take a while

to get Chinese arrivals back to “normal” due to initially limited airline capacity and health concerns about travelling).”

Tourism Australia figures, as reported by The Guardian , show 102,000 Chinese holiday-makers visited Australia in September 2023. Four years earlier, the number was 688,000 in the same month.

More Coverage

According to Trip.com, analysis of Chinese tourism shows a 30 per cent increase to South-East Asia in the first quarter of 2024, compared with 2019 levels — with other holiday highlights being short trips to Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea.

The airline made several other changes to its Asia network, including a new route from Brisbane to Manila from October this year and also additional flights from Sydney to Singapore and Brisbane to Singapore.

The airline said the Sydney route will jump from 14 to 17 return flights per week from 11 December 2024, while the Brisbane to Singapore route will increase from seven to nine return flights per week from 27 October 2024.

Employees at an Aussie company have copped another huge blow just weeks after they were stood down.

Airfares to some of the most popular tourist destinations have seen a big drop over the past year with Aussies now savings hundreds of dollars.

Despite trade tensions almost fully thawed with China, Qantas has been forced to make a major change to its international flights.