News Listing
August 15, 2022
We've reviewed our travel advice for Türkiye. We continue to advise you exercise a high degree of caution. All COVID-19 entry restrictions for Türkiye have been lifted. You're no longer required to present proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 (PCR) test results on arrival.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the high threat of terrorist attack.
Higher levels apply.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the high threat of terrorist attack.
Higher levels apply.
July 14, 2022
There are no COVID-19 outbreaks in the Niue community. However, rules and restrictions can change quickly. If you’re required to extend your stay in Niue due to COVID-19, ensure you’re prepared. See the latest COVID-19 advice on the Niue Government website. See ‘Travel’.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Niue overall due to travel restrictions.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Niue overall due to travel restrictions.
April 07, 2022
Vietnam has re-opened its borders to all foreign travellers who meet visa and health requirements. Regular international commercial flights, including to Australia, are operating. To travel to Vietnam you must have evidence of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 72 hours of departure to Vietnam. Alternatively, you can have evidence of a negative rapid antigen test, administered by a medical professional, within 24 hours of departure to Vietnam. All COVID cases and close contacts will need to isolate. Travel around the country may be challenging. Entry and social distancing measures vary between provinces. These measures may change at short notice and may impact your ability to travel and access essential services. Follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor the Australian Embassy's social media for major updates.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level3">Reconsider your need to travel</a> to Vietnam due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level3">Reconsider your need to travel</a> to Vietnam due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
April 07, 2022
You no longer need a COVID-19 test to travel to the UAE or quarantine on arrival if you're vaccinated for COVID-19. Missile and drone attacks on the UAE have occurred in January. Further attacks are expected. Be alert, monitor the media for developments and follow the advice of local authorities (see ‘Safety’). Check the latest information for travel to, from or connecting through Abu Dhabi and Dubai (see 'Travel'). Contact your airline for updates on entry or exit requirements as these may change at short notice. Delays and disruptions are likely.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in the United Arab Emirates due to the impacts of COVID-19 and the threat of drone and missile attacks.</p>
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in the United Arab Emirates due to the impacts of COVID-19 and the threat of drone and missile attacks.</p>
April 06, 2022
The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Heavy fighting, including bombardments, explosions and missile launches, is ongoing throughout Ukraine, including in major cities. Infrastructure and military facilities have been struck by rockets. There have been many civilian casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted, including in areas not directly affected by fighting. Do not cross into Ukraine from Poland. Follow the instructions of the local authorities at all times. If you have arrived in Poland from Ukraine and are in need of assistance, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia. <br />
<br />
There are no COVID-19 entry restrictions at the Polish border. If you’re travelling by land you must have a valid Australian passport. All crossings at the Ukrainian border are open to pedestrian traffic. Accommodation near the border with Ukraine is extremely limited. Accommodation availability increases further from the border area. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect some congestion on routes, at checkpoints, and lengthy queues. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Read the Ukraine travel advice.<br />
<br />
A state of emergency remains in place in areas within approximately 3kms of the Belarusian border, including parts of Podlaskie and Lubelskie Voivodeships. Reconsider your need to be in these areas due to increased restrictions on movement, assembly and activities. Follow the instructions of Polish authorities and carry ID with you at all times if you're in these areas.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2 ">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in Poland due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>Higher levels apply in some areas.</p>
<br />
There are no COVID-19 entry restrictions at the Polish border. If you’re travelling by land you must have a valid Australian passport. All crossings at the Ukrainian border are open to pedestrian traffic. Accommodation near the border with Ukraine is extremely limited. Accommodation availability increases further from the border area. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect some congestion on routes, at checkpoints, and lengthy queues. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Read the Ukraine travel advice.<br />
<br />
A state of emergency remains in place in areas within approximately 3kms of the Belarusian border, including parts of Podlaskie and Lubelskie Voivodeships. Reconsider your need to be in these areas due to increased restrictions on movement, assembly and activities. Follow the instructions of Polish authorities and carry ID with you at all times if you're in these areas.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2 ">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in Poland due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>Higher levels apply in some areas.</p>
April 06, 2022
Public demonstrations are occurring throughout Sri Lanka. A Public Emergency can be declared, and curfews imposed with limited notice. Avoid demonstrations and events that draw large groups. Carry relevant travel and identification documents with you at all times. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. You may experience disruption to fuel supply and planned, lengthy power outages. Import delays may impact your ability to access some medicines and food items.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> to Sri Lanka due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> to Sri Lanka due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
April 06, 2022
Recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Shanghai and other large cities have resulted in city-wide residential lockdowns, closures of schools, businesses and suspension of public transport. Access to medical facilities and other essential services has also been disrupted. Further COVID-19 outbreaks throughout China are possible and countermeasures including flight suspensions and re-routing, and mass testing may be imposed with little or no warning. Stay informed of local conditions, particularly if you intend to travel within China. Pre-departure testing requirements for China have changed (see 'Travel'). <br />
<br />
As previously advised, authorities have detained foreigners on grounds of 'endangering national security'. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2 ">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in China overall due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>Other levels apply in some areas.</p>
<br />
As previously advised, authorities have detained foreigners on grounds of 'endangering national security'. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2 ">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in China overall due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>Other levels apply in some areas.</p>
April 06, 2022
Peru has declared state of emergency following protests and unrest. Avoid demonstrations and events that draw large groups.
<p><span>We advise:</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in Peru overall due to the high risk of violent crime.</p>
<p>Higher levels apply in some areas.</p>
<p><span>We advise:</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in Peru overall due to the high risk of violent crime.</p>
<p>Higher levels apply in some areas.</p>
April 06, 2022
Fully vaccinated tourists and travellers can enter Fiji without prior approval or quarantine. Travellers 12 years and over must show a negative COVID-19 test result before travelling. This can be a (PCR) test (taken no more than 2 calendar days before scheduled departure), or a negative supervised Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) (taken within 24 hours of your flight’s scheduled departure). You must also show proof of full vaccination at check-in, as well as evidence of a pre-booked Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) that will be administered within 48-72 hours following your arrival into Fiji. You must have travel insurance with international coverage for COVID-19. Face masks are optional and social distancing requirements aren't being enforced. Regularly review the Ministry of Health and Medical Services website and Facebook page to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Fiji.
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2 ">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in Fiji due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
<p>We advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level2 ">Exercise a high degree of caution</a> in Fiji due to the impacts of COVID-19.</p>
April 06, 2022
Do not travel to Russia due to the security environment and military conflict with Ukraine. If you’re in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it’s safe to do so. The Australian Government has authorised the voluntary departure of dependants of Australian Embassy staff in Moscow. The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. The Russian parliament has passed laws that severely inhibit free speech related to the current situation, imposing restrictions on the publishing and distribution of information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. Remain vigilant and avoid any protests or demonstrations and commenting publicly on political developments. Non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces and have been detained. Given the substantial police presence and mass arrests, you should avoid demonstrations and any demonstration-related activities. <br />
<br />
Russian authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia. Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials, and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. The US Government issued travel advice on 29 March advising that Russian security services have arrested US citizens on spurious charges, singled out US citizens in Russia for detention and/or harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting credible evidence. The US Government warns that Russian officials may unreasonably delay consular assistance to detained US citizens.<br />
<br />
Conscription occurs regularly in Russia. The government may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. Conscription in Russia occurs semi-annually and, conscripts typically serve one year. The first conscription of 2022 will take place from 1 April to 15 July. <br />
<br />
If you’re in Russia, register your whereabouts on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's registration portal for Australian citizens in Russia – see the 'Safety' section for details on how to register. Keep your registration details up to date to ensure we’re aware of your situation and can provide you with the latest information. Continue to monitor Smartraveller for updates. If, despite our advice, you remain in Russia you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. <br />
<br />
Several security incidents have occurred in the Belgorod region of Russia bordering Ukraine, including an explosion at a fuel depot. The security situation in the region could deteriorate at short notice. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.<br />
<br />
Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. A number of Russian airports are now closed to the public. The train service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended. Bus services to Finland are operating. If you’re planning to depart Russia, confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating. There are reports of non-Russian credit and debit cards being declined in Russia. Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You’re responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Make sure your travel documents are up to date. If you have significant concerns for your welfare, or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.
<p>We continue to advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level4 ">Do not travel</a> to Russia overall due to the security environment and military conflict with Ukraine. </p>
<p> </p>
<br />
Russian authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia. Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials, and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. The US Government issued travel advice on 29 March advising that Russian security services have arrested US citizens on spurious charges, singled out US citizens in Russia for detention and/or harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting credible evidence. The US Government warns that Russian officials may unreasonably delay consular assistance to detained US citizens.<br />
<br />
Conscription occurs regularly in Russia. The government may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. Conscription in Russia occurs semi-annually and, conscripts typically serve one year. The first conscription of 2022 will take place from 1 April to 15 July. <br />
<br />
If you’re in Russia, register your whereabouts on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's registration portal for Australian citizens in Russia – see the 'Safety' section for details on how to register. Keep your registration details up to date to ensure we’re aware of your situation and can provide you with the latest information. Continue to monitor Smartraveller for updates. If, despite our advice, you remain in Russia you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. <br />
<br />
Several security incidents have occurred in the Belgorod region of Russia bordering Ukraine, including an explosion at a fuel depot. The security situation in the region could deteriorate at short notice. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.<br />
<br />
Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. A number of Russian airports are now closed to the public. The train service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended. Bus services to Finland are operating. If you’re planning to depart Russia, confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating. There are reports of non-Russian credit and debit cards being declined in Russia. Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You’re responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Make sure your travel documents are up to date. If you have significant concerns for your welfare, or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.
<p>We continue to advise:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/travel-advice-explained#level4 ">Do not travel</a> to Russia overall due to the security environment and military conflict with Ukraine. </p>
<p> </p>