Australian Travel exemptions Update

Further to our newsletter dated 2 July 2021, there have been some additional changes to the travel exemption criteria:

Ordinarily resident outside of Australia
Australian citizens and permanent residents who are ordinarily resident in a country outside Australia are no longer automatically exempt from Australia’s outward travel restrictions. From 11 August 2021, they must apply for an online travel exemption from the Australian Border Force.

Until 7 September 2021, it may still be possible to arrive at the airport with evidence of living overseas to seek departure (transitional provisions) however this is at the discretion of an Australian Border Force officer at the airport to allow boarding for travel.

Commencing today, we recommend all clients apply for an exemption before arrival at the airport. Evidence that the Australian citizen/permanent resident is ordinarily resident in a country other than Australia needs to be included in the travel exemption request, for example:

• foreign government issued visa/residency
• foreign drivers licence
• tenancy/residential agreement
• utility bills, rate notices
• employment or business contracts

Restrictions with India eased
Individuals who are residing in India may now apply for a travel exemption to Australia in line with the standard settings. That is, temporary visa holders resident in India must meet one of the “Inwards Travel” exceptions which include:

• critical skills required to maintain the supply of essential goods and services (such as in medical technology, critical infrastructure, telecommunications, engineering and mining, supply chain logistics, agriculture, primary industry, food production, and the maritime industry);
• delivering services in sectors critical to Australia’s economic recovery (such as financial technology, large scale manufacturing, film, media and television production and emerging technology), where no Australian worker is available;
• sponsored to work in Australia in an occupation on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL);
• compassionate or compelling reasons.

Australian citizens and permanent residents can now also apply for an exemption to depart Australia and travel to India.

Things change constantly so please make sure you touch base with your Ajuria contact if you have any questions.

DISCLAIMER This information is current as of date of publication and subject to change. The information contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It should not be used as legal advice. To the extent permissible by law, Ajuria Lawyers and its associated entities shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use or rely on such information. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.