travel to australia requirements 2022

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.

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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  

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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.

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Easing restrictions for australians travelling overseas.

Changes to the requirements for travel into and out of Australia came into effect on 18 April 2022. So what does that mean for your overseas trip?

Pre-departure testing is no longer required

When travelling to Australia, you no longer need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result to board your plane.

It’s important to remember that transport providers, transit locations and the state or territory you arrive in may still have testing requirements. Always check the requirements before you travel.

You still need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration when travelling to Australia. And you must still wear a mask at all times if you’re travelling to Australia by air.

Cruise travel into and out of Australia has resumed

Cruise vessels can once again travel into and out of Australian waters.

COVID-19 remains a  global health risk , and infectious diseases  such as COVID-19 can spread quickly onboard cruises. Carefully consider the risks of international travel before you book.

The Department of Health recommends that you avoid cruise ship travel if

• your routine COVID-19 and  travel vaccinations  aren’t  fully up to date
• you’re in a  vulnerable group  that puts you at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

If you’re travelling to Australia on a cruise, you must complete a Maritime Travel Declaration before you board your vessel.

Read our advice on cruising overseas for more information.

Exemptions are no longer required to leave Australia

Unvaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents can now leave Australia without an individual travel exemption. But you may still be asked about your vaccination status. You’re required to show proof of your vaccination status if you’re asked by an Australian official or your transport provider.

The Australian Government recommends passengers leaving Australia be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and travel with proof of vaccination status documentation. If you’re unvaccinated, you’re strongly discouraged from international travel due to the health risks.

Airlines, cruise lines and other destinations can still have their own vaccination policies. You may face difficulty finding transport options if you’re unvaccinated.

Before you decide to travel

Remember Only the Australian federal border restrictions have changed. Foreign governments, transport providers and Australian states and territories can have their own requirements for COVID-19 testing and vaccination. Your transport provider can refuse to allow you on board if you’re showing symptoms of COVID-19 you don’t meet their vaccination or testing requirements you don’t meet the requirements of your destination you refuse to wear a mask when required.

To understand all the rules and requirements before committing to an overseas trip:

• Read our Global COVID-19 Health Advisory and our step-by-step guide to travel during COVID-19 .
• Read and subscribe to the travel advice for your destination , as well as all your transit locations. Make sure you understand their entry and exit requirements, and their vaccination requirements beyond the border.
• Contact your transport providers to confirm their vaccination and testing requirements.
• See our information on leaving Australia
• Learn about Australia’s re-entry and biosecurity measures
• Read about COVID-19 vaccinations and travel
• See our COVID-19 FAQs
• COVID-19 and the border (Department of Home Affairs)
• Advice for Australian travellers (Department of Health)

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Australia’s border rules apply to everyone

​Any individual seeking to enter Australia must comply with our strict border requirements.

While the Victorian Government and Tennis Australia may permit a non-vaccinated player to compete in the Australian Open, it is the Commonwealth Government that will enforce our requirements at the Australian border.

Since 15 December 2021 fully vaccinated eligible visa holders can travel to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption, and enter eligible states and territories quarantine free.

If an arriving individual is not vaccinated, they must provide acceptable proof that they cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons to be able to access the same travel arrangement as fully vaccinated travellers.

Australian Border Force will continue to ensure that those who arrive at our border comply with our strict border requirements.

No individual competing at the Australian Open will be afforded any special treatment.

Quarantine requirements for international arrivals in Victoria, including for non-vaccinated individuals, are a matter for the Victorian Government.

More information about international border restrictions is available at the ​​ Department of Home Affairs website​ .​​​

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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.

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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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Australia Travel Restrictions

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Can I travel to Australia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Australia.

Can I travel to Australia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Australia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Australia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Australia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Australia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Australia.

Can I travel to Australia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Australia?

Mask usage in Australia is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Australia?

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7 Things to Know Before Traveling To Australia In 2022

Matt Moffitt

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Travelers rejoice! With the reopening of Australia’s borders to foreign tourists from February 21, travelers from the US who have had a trip on their bucket list can now head Down Under!

Given that Australia has been closed for just shy of two years, there are a number of things to be aware of if you are planning to visit the country in 2022.

I am basing the advice in this article on information from official government sources, as well as my personal experience during my most recent visit to Australia in early February 2022. (I am originally from Sydney but have been calling Austin, Texas home for the past seven years. I visit Australia once a year, and have visited twice during the pandemic.)

Entry Requirements

From February 21, 2022, foreign tourists are again able to enter Australia. However, there are four main requirements:

• Be fully vaccinated, defined as having received two doses of an approved vaccine; and
• Receive a negative COVID-19 test result, either a PCR test within three days of departure or a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of departure; and
• Fill out a Digital Passenger Declaration form at least 72 hours before departure; and
• Take a rapid antigen test within the first 24 hours after arrival to Australia and self-isolate until you receive a negative test result (a loosely-regulated requirement for most states and territories)

A couple of extra points:

• There is no mandatory quarantine upon arrival (except for the self-isolation until you receive your negative test result)
• Children aged under 12 years do not need to be vaccinated
• It is recommended that you bring your own rapid tests to Australia for your post-arrival test as well as your return to the US. Australia has experienced a supply shortage of rapid tests, and often has long turnaround times for receiving PCR test results

Where Can Americans Travel Right Now?

Expectations of Things Being Open

Businesses and public spaces in Australia are, by and large, open again. However, note that due to a shortage of service workers (which is also the case in the US), wait times at hospitality venues such as restaurants and hotels are currently longer. It would be wise to lower your expectations for these venues.

Do note that, as in the US, many businesses have permanently closed down during the pandemic, so check Google Maps or call the establishment directly for the most up-to-date information.

Major events like Australian Open tennis and the Formula One Australian Grand Prix are now back in force. Most require attendees to provide proof of vaccination and wear a mask , even outdoors.

Mask-Wearing, Vaccine Certificates and Check-ins

You will most likely be required to wear masks in more places than you do at home in the US. While mask-wearing is generally not expected outdoors except at large events, you will see some people doing so.

When entering an establishment, you may be required to check-in using a QR code, provide proof of vaccination (usually a picture of your CDC card on your phone will do) and/or wear a mask. In order to check in properly, it is best to have access to cellular data on your phone whilst traveling within Australia.

5 Important Vaccine Card Tips for Travelers

Travel Within Australia

As of March 3, 2022, all of Australia’s six states, as well as the Australian Capital Territory (where Canberra is located) and the Northern Territory (home to Uluru and Kakadu), are open to tourists.

Masks are required in airport terminals and on flights, rideshares and all public transport.

Travel to New Zealand

If you’re hoping to combine a trip to Australia and New Zealand, you’ll have to wait until the second half of 2022. New Zealand has taken a more cautious approach to COVID-19 and plans to remain closed to foreign tourists until at least July.

Even then, travelers are expected to complete up to 10 days of self-isolation, and return a negative test result at the end of this period.

The Best At-Home COVID Tests for Travel

Flight and Accommodation Price Trends

Flight prices are looking more expensive than they were pre-pandemic. It is currently cheaper to fly to Australia in the first half of 2022 than in the second, especially if you can depart the US on a Sunday through Wednesday.

Hotels and vacation rentals are a different story. You should be able to snag a good deal now for 2022 and into 2023. Just be aware that prices spike during the Australian school vacations, which happen four times a year:

• Mid-April (two weeks)
• Late June to early July (two weeks)
• Mid-September to early October (two weeks)
• Mid-December to late January (six weeks)

How to Save Money on Gas: 8 Easy Tricks

Local Attitudes to COVID

In my opinion, most Australians are wearier of COVID than the average American. This is due to the fact that, until recently, Australia’s isolation resulted in low caseloads and a relatively normal way of life for the majority of the pandemic.

On my first visit to Australia during the pandemic, in December 2020 and January 2021, the people I came into contact with had a very nihilistic view of what would happen if COVID cases rose in Australia.

Omicron changed all of that, and Australia had one of the highest positivity rates of any country in December 2021 throughJanuary 2022. However, that wave has continued to subside, and more than 93% of the population over 12 years of age has now received at least two doses of the vaccine. 

As I write this at the end of a two-week visit to Australia in the first half of February, I have noticed a distinct relaxation in the attitude of Australians with regards to COVID. I expect this to continue but, as always with this pandemic, the situation is fluid. Be sure to keep up-to-date with the latest trends and regulations if you’re planning a visit.

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Australia reopening to vaccinated travelers next week: What tourists need to know

CANBERRA, Australia — Australia will open its borders to all vaccinated tourists and business travelers from Feb. 21 in a further relaxation of pandemic restrictions announced Monday.

Australia imposed some of the world’s toughest travel restrictions on its citizens and permanent residents in March 2020 to prevent them from bringing COVID-19 home.

When the border restrictions were relaxed in November in response to an increasing vaccination rate among the Australian population, international students and skilled migrants were prioritized over tourists in being welcomed back to Australia.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his senior ministers agreed on Feb. 7 that the border would reopen to all vaccinated visas holders from Feb. 21.

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SPRING BREAK 2022: What are the entry, masking requirements at popular beach destinations?

Morrison said visitors must have proof of vaccination. He referred to Serbian tennis star  Novak Djokovic being deported  by the Australian government last month because he was not vaccinated against coronavirus.

“Events earlier in the year should have sent a very clear message, I think, to everyone around the world that that is the requirement to enter into Australia,” Morrison said.

The Djokovic case demonstrated that visitors gaining visas through an automated process before setting off for Australia does not guarantee that they will meet entry requirements on arrival.

Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said visitors who could provide proof of a medical reason why they could not be vaccinated could apply for a travel exemption.

Visitors to Australia could also have to contend with various states’ COVID-19 rules if they move around the country.

Western Australia, which has the strictest state border rules, announced Friday that it will open its borders starting March 3. Vaccinated international travelers will be allowed entry with a negative test. 

Australia delayed its staged border reopening after two Australians who returned from southern Africa on Nov. 27 became the first to test positive for the omicron variant.

The arrivals of students and skilled workers were postponed by two weeks until Dec. 15.

Tourist operators have been lobbying the government to bring tourists back sooner. The southern hemisphere summer is in its final month.

The Australian Tourism Export Council, the peak industry body representing the nation’s tourism export sector, said tourism operations were looking forward to rebuilding their markets.

“Australian tourism businesses will rejoice in the news that our borders will reopen to all international travelers,” the council’s managing director Peter Shelley said.

“It’s been a long, hard and desperate road for every tourism business across the country and we have lost many along the way, but this news will give those who have survived a clear target to work towards and a start point for the rebuilding of the industry,” Shelley added.

The CDC and State Department have advised Americans to avoid travel to Australia due to very high levels of COVID.

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Australia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Australian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Australia. 

Passport validity requirements

To enter Australia, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through or transiting another country on your way to or from Australia, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries require at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport, even if you’re just in transit and do not pass through immigration.

Dual nationals

If you’re a British-Australian dual national, you must leave and enter Australia on your Australian passport. You could face difficulties and delays if you do not. See Australian government advice for dual nationals .

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Australia. 

Applying for a visa

British citizens can usually get the following types of electronic visitor visa:

• eVisitor visa – there is no visa application charge or service fee
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) through the iOS app or Android app – there is no visa application charge, but there may be a service fee

The Department of Home Affairs has information on all other types of visas .

Vaccine requirements

To enter Australia, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk . See the Australian Department of Health’s information on yellow fever for travellers .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Australia guide .

Customs requirements

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Australia . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Quarantine rules

Australia has strict quarantine rules to keep out pests and diseases that could affect plant, animal or human health.

You must fill in an Incoming Passenger Card  and either:

• declare goods considered to be a risk, such as food, animal products and plant material (including wooden articles)
• dispose of goods in bins at the airport or seaport

You must also declare if you have ‘been in contact with farms, farm animals, wilderness areas or freshwater streams/lakes etc in the past 30 days’.

The Australian authorities X-ray luggage. They inspect, treat and, if necessary, confiscate and destroy items of concern. You can get a heavy fine if you break quarantine.

The Department of Agriculture has more information on quarantine rules .

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Preparing for your travels

Once you have your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and student visa, the next step is to start planning for your travels to Australia.

Pre-departure Checklist

This pre-departure checklist will help you prepare for your travels to Australia. 

1. Passport

Check that your passport is valid for at least six months prior to your arrival in Australia. It is also a good idea to make a copy of your passport and leave it with a family member in case of an emergency.

Make sure you have a valid visa for entering and studying in Australia well before your departure date and that you have all your visa documentation (including Confirmation of Enrolment, or eCoE) with you on your flight.

Be sure to book your flight to arrive in Australia with plenty of time to settle into your new city and campus before your course starts. Only book your flight once you have been granted a student visa.

Check out our helpful tips for booking your flight to Australia.

4. Travel insurance

In addition to your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), you should also consider travel insurance, which covers things such as cancelled flights and some medical costs. Talk to your education or travel agent for more information and for advice on the best travel insurance policy for you.

It is recommended that you have some Australian currency with you when you land in Australia. There are money exchange counters in most international airports and cities. 

Ask your bank if you can withdraw money from ATMs (cash withdrawal machines) in Australia. If so, find out whether you need to pay a fee each time, and how much, so that you can plan your withdrawals.  

You may wish to open an account with an Australian bank to save on fees. Some banks will let you apply to open an account even before you arrive.

6. Accommodation

You will be required to provide your accommodation address on your incoming passenger card when you arrive in Australia. This means you need to arrange accommodation for your first night(s) before you travel. 

Please note: If you are under 18 years of age, it is a student visa requirement that you have adequate welfare arrangements in place prior to your arrival.

7. Arrange transport to your accommodation

Before you travel to Australia, find out how to get to your accommodation from your arrival airport or train/bus station, and how to check into your accommodation – including outside of usual business hours in case you arrive late at night or early in the morning.

8. Packing your bag

Research the average temperatures of your location in Australia so you will know whether to pack clothes that suit hot or cold weather. It's also a good idea to pack a travel adaptor that connects to Australian power points. 

Make sure you check your airline’s luggage allowance. Some airlines have the option to buy additional baggage online, which is cheaper than paying for an overweight or additional bag at airport check-in.

9. Hand luggage

It's a good idea to pack a change of clothes, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant to freshen up or in case of any delays with your main luggage. Remember that liquid, aerosol, and gel items must be in containers of 100 millilitres or less. 

Other things to pack in your hand luggage include:

• your passport and visa documentation
• the address of your accommodation
• a pen to fill out the incoming passenger card
• any prescription medication, and
• a list of emergency contact details including a family member, your education provider and education agent (if you have one).

10. What to expect on arrival

When you arrive at an Australian airport, you will first need to go through immigration and customs. You will need to complete an incoming passenger card which is usually given to you on board your flight.

Further information on what to expect at border clearance can be found on the Australian Border Force website .

11. Check travel and border requirements

You are not required to:

• show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination for travel to Australia, or
• have a COVID-19 test before travel.

However, you should check the requirements of your airline and any countries that you are transiting through as they may have vaccination or COVID-19 pre-testing requirements. 

You can stay up to date with latest travel requirements by visiting the Department of Home Affairs website.

12. What you can (and can't) bring into Australia

Australia has strict border controls so you need to be aware of what you can and cannot bring into Australia.

Australia's biosecurity laws have been strengthened and penalties will apply if you fail to truthfully declare biosecurity goods at the Australian border. Find out what you can and can’t bring on the Australian Border Force website.

13. Planning to work?

Your student visa allows you to work alongside your studies. This can help you to earn some extra spending money, and help you gain valuable language and cultural experience. Find out what you need to know about working in Australia as an international student.

14. Have fun!

After you’ve arrived and have finished settling into your new home and surrounds, your Study Australia adventure begins.

You're now part of a cohort that make an immense contribution to Australian society. Australia is now home to incredible citizens who started out as international students.

Welcome to our community, we are glad you can join us.

Need more help?

Life in Australia

Accommodation

Australia has a wide range of short-term rental, on campus and homestay accommodation options for students.

Plan your move

Your first week in Australia

Handy tips to help you settle into your new life in Australia as an international student.

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Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

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Travel Tips: A Guide for Kidney Patients

For many patients who are on dialysis or have had a kidney transplant, the ability to travel is important to their self-esteem and lifestyle. Working patients may need to attend business meetings or conferences. Older patients may have dreamed of traveling during their retirement. A family event such as a wedding, graduation or family reunion may require travel away from home. At times, emergencies such as illness or a death in the family may require travel.

Is it possible for kidney patients to travel?

Yes, most patients who receive dialysis or have had a kidney transplant can travel safely and continue their treatment while away from home. Of course, you should always consult your doctor before planning to travel. Most doctors encourage travel if the patient's health is stable. Traveling can give a big boost to a patient's morale and sense of well-being.

How should hemodialysis patients begin to plan a trip?

Many dialysis centers have a staff member who is experienced in arranging dialysis treatments away from home (transient dialysis). Some centers will assist patients in making their own arrangements. Ask your social worker or primary nurse if there is such a person at your center.

It is important to start planning at least six to eight weeks in advance. More time should be allowed for popular vacation spots or travel during holidays. Be flexible about the dates for your trip as space in dialysis units may be limited. If you would prefer to have your treatments on specific days and at specific times, let the center know in advance. The unit may not always be able to honor your request, however, because space is limited.

You or your patient travel coordinator may need to contact more than one center in order to find a center that can provide dialysis for you. Check with the center as soon as you arrive to confirm your appointment. You may also want to visit the center and meet the staff so you will feel more comfortable. Before doing this, however, make an appointment with the social worker or nurse manager of the dialysis center you plan to visit.

How will I find a center to dialyze at?

If you plan to visit friends or family out of town, they may be able to give you the name and address of the dialysis center nearest them. Resource publications are available at your center listing dialysis centers around the world that are willing to accept transient dialysis patients. Your social worker or the patient travel coordinator at your center will be able to assist you.

What if I need to travel in an emergency?

Many dialysis centers make every effort to accommodate patients in the event of an emergency such as illness or death of a family member. Dialysis records can be faxed ahead, or you can hand carry them with you.

What information will my transient dialysis center need to safely provide dialysis for me?

Most dialysis centers require the following information in order to assess your health and plan for your treatments with them:

• the dates you need dialysis treatment
• your name, address, etc.
• medical history and recent physical exam reports
• recent lab results
• recent chest x-ray
• your dialysis prescription and 3 to 5 recent treatment records
• dialysis access type
• special needs or dialysis requirements
• information about your general health
• insurance information
• where you will be staying in the area
• a list of the medications you take during treatment and at home.

This information will be sent to your destination center for review. It is important for the doctor and transient center to know as much about you as possible in order to care for your needs while visiting their center. In addition to mailing your records to the center, you should hand carry a copy with you.

How can I be sure about the quality of care I will be getting away from my regular center?

You may want to ask the following questions when making your arrangements for hemodialysis during your trip:

• Does the center reuse dialyzers?
• Does the center reuse bloodlines?
• What is the average treatment length of dialysis at the center?
• Can they provide the treatment time your doctor has prescribed?
• What are the hours and days of operation? Traveling patients often are placed on an evening shift, which could end as early as 7:30 p.m. or as late as 2:00 a.m.
• What types of dialyzers are used?
• Can you use the same type of dialyzer you use at your home center?
• What types of dialysis machine does the center have (conventional, high flux capability)?
• Does the center routinely provide lidocaine?
• Are patients permitted to eat or drink while on dialysis?
• Is an ice machine available for patients?
• Is public transportation available to get to the center?
• How many patients are assigned to each nurse or patient care technician?
• Can you get all the medications you get at your home center during dialysis?

What if I get sick while I am visiting another center?

Don't overdo it! Be realistic when planning activities. Allow enough time to enjoy sightseeing outings and activities without becoming overtired. Also, be sure to watch your diet and fluid intake. Before you begin your trip, you will most likely have a doctor assigned to you by your transient dialysis center. Find out how to contact the doctor when you first arrive. If you do become ill, call the dialysis center or doctor as instructed.

It is possible that a transient patient may require hospitalization. If this should happen to you, your transient doctor is prepared for this possibility and will care for you during your hospital stay. He or she will probably talk to your regular doctor to coordinate your care. You may feel more comfortable to know if this coordination has taken place. Being hospitalized while away from home can be a stressful experience for any patient, and it certainly can change your travel plans. Preparing ahead for this possibility can help make the experience less stressful. The following suggestions may be helpful:

• Make sure your family knows your travel plans.
• Make sure you have important phone numbers with such names as your regular doctor, dialysis center, etc. Have a copy of your medical records with you while traveling.
• Make sure anyone who is traveling with you knows where you keep your records and what your medical needs are.
• Make sure to bring enough of the medications you need to take to last for the entire trip, with enough extra to deal with possible emergencies such as lost luggage or a spill. Also carry written prescriptions just in case.

Is home hemodialysis possible on a trip?

Yes, although most home hemodialysis patients make arrangements for in-center treatments while traveling. Patients who wish to continue doing their own treatment while traveling should check with their dialysis care team about whether they can do home dialysis away from home. Some patients travel with their machines, supplies and portable water treatment equipment. An example would be people who have dialyzed in campsites equipped with hook-ups for electricity.

Even if you do your own treatment, it is important to know where the closest dialysis center is where you could go for assistance. Let the center know when you will be in the area, and ask if they would be willing to provide medical assistance if needed. Carry complete medical information with you. Remember that most dialysis and equipment companies have toll-free numbers for assistance 24 hours a day. Carry these numbers with you.

What should peritoneal dialysis patients know about traveling?

Traveling is often easier for peritoneal dialysis patients because they are not dependent on the availability of a dialysis unit. Peritoneal dialysis patients still need to plan ahead and arrange for back-up medical care for their trips, as do hemodialysis patients. Typically, this would mean contacting a dialysis center in the area where you will be and asking if they would be available should a problem arise. The center may request a copy of your medical records in advance. In any case, you should always carry a copy of your records with you as well.

CAPD patients should carry enough supplies for the length of the trip, plus some extra supplies in case of problems. It may also be possible to arrange for delivery of supplies to your destination for longer stays. Make sure these supplies have arrived before you leave on your trip. CAPD patients also need to plan for adequate clean space where they may do their exchanges while traveling.

APD patients who plan to travel for one week or longer can arrange for supplies to be delivered to their destination. Smaller cycler machines are now available, which are easy to carry on airplanes and to use in hotel rooms, campers, etc.

Is it possible to travel if you are active on a transplant waiting list?

Yes. Simply inform your transplant coordinator about your travel plans. The coordinator will help you decide whether to be "on hold" during the trip or whether you would be able to return within a reasonable amount of time if a kidney became available. Arrange to be contacted in the event a kidney becomes available.

What should diabetic patients know about traveling?

Since the unexpected may happen during a trip and meals may be delayed, you should carry glucose tablets and appropriate snacks, such as low-potassium juice boxes or hard candy, to treat low blood sugar. It's a good idea to travel with a "brown-bag" lunch or a packaged nutritional supplement in case of delays. Managing your diabetes can be made simpler by having insulin, syringes and blood glucose monitoring supplies handy.

Will my insurance cover treatment during travel?

If Medicare is your primary insurance coverage, Medicare will pay for 80 percent of your treatment costs within the U.S. and its territories. You will be responsible for the remaining 20 percent not covered by Medicare. If you have secondary insurance, it may cover this 20 percent. However, you may have to pay this 20 percent "up front" and bill your insurance later. Check with the transient center about their policy on this. Most state Medicaid programs will not pay for treatment outside of your home state.

If you have commercial insurance as your primary insurance, you may need to request a letter from your insurance company stating they will pay for your treatment at the transient dialysis center. Some commercial insurance will pay for dialysis outside of the U.S. Transient dialysis centers will often call and verify this coverage themselves. Be sure to allow enough planning time to make these arrangements.

A doctor's fee may also be charged by the transient dialysis center. Be sure to ask what portion of this charge will be your responsibility.

Further information

Where can I get more information?

Following is a list of other resources you may find helpful:

• Easy Access to National Parks, by Sierra Club Books, available at bookstores or order from the Sierra Club at 1-800-935-1056.
• Management of Diabetes During Intercontinental Travel, available free from The Diabetic Traveler, P.O.. Box 8223 RW, Stamford, CT 06905; (203) 327-5832.
• "The List," a comprehensive list of international dialysis centers accepting transient patients. Available from Dialysis & Transplantation, 7628 Densmore Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406-2088. (Most dialysis centers have a copy.)
• Also available are companies that specialize in vacation and travel planning for dialysis patients, such as cruises, foreign travel, and wilderness travel. Camps are available for dialysis and transplant patients (both adults and children). Contact your local National Kidney Foundation office for more information and a directory of camps. Your health care team can also give you more information about these options.

Don't forget!

• Hand carry essential medical information, your medicines and other medical supplies in case of the unexpected, such as lost luggage.
• Bring enough of your medications to last for your entire trip, with enough extra to deal with possible emergencies. Also carry written prescriptions just in case.
• If you need extra assistance boarding a plane or train, inform personnel when you check in so they can give you special instructions.
• If you are planning to travel by plane or train, make arrangements for any special meals such as low-salt, low-fat or diabetic, at the time you make your reservations.
• When making a hotel reservation, you can request a first-floor room or a handicapped-accessible room, if stairs or distances are a problem.
• If you use a travel agent, tell the agent about any special needs you may have, such as special meals, accessible rooms, and assistance while changing planes. The agent can also advise you about special considerations regarding safe transport of dialysis supplies while traveling to foreign countries.

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International travel has rebounded to close to pre-COVID levels as trips to Indonesia outpace New Zealand 'four to one'

The number of Australian residents returning from short-term trips overseas has been above pre-COVID levels almost every month since January. 

Indonesia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and United States were the most popular destinations for short-term travel in the last 12 months. 

What's next: 

The number of international visitors has increased nationwide and reached 85 per cent of pre-COVID levels which the industry hopes to grow further.

International travel has rebounded to pre-COVID levels for the first time since international travel restrictions were lifted, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

The numbers also showed Indonesia was the most popular travel destination for Australians with 1.5 million trips recorded in 2023-24, outpacing the increase in trips to New Zealand by "four to one".

International flights resumed in late 2021, with searches for flights and travel insurance still soaring in early 2023 .

Last year marked the first time Indonesia had come in as the top travel destination.

In June 2024 it was followed in popularity by New Zealand (77,760 trips),  the United Kingdom (65,090 trips) the United States (52,910) and Japan (51,156).

The United States was the only country in the top five where the number of trips proved lower than a decade ago, with a total of 714,300 trips, down from 970,230 trips in 2013-14.

The ABS' head of migration statistics, Martin Skeggs, said it had been a "continual recovery" over several years.

"The figures today [are not] especially surprising because we've been seeing this coming, but they have reached a point now where for residents, we're hitting levels that we saw prior to the pandemic," he said. 

"We're already seeing visitors from some countries levelling off a little bit.

"But if we look prior to the pandemic, we saw that the number of Australians going overseas and the number of visitors coming here was ever increasing.

"So there is the possibility that those levels may continue to increase over time." 

There were 863,950 short term trips in June 2024, "an increase of 134,410 compared to [June 2023]", according to the ABS.

The number of trips was 2.6 per cent higher than the pre-COVID figure in June 2019.

The ABS' head of migration statistics, Jenny Dobak, said: "The number of residents returning from short-term trips in 2023-24 was 32 per cent higher than 2022-23, and reached 98 per cent (pre-COVID) volume.

"The number of resident returns each month reached 100 per cent of the pre-COVID (2019) volume in January 2024, for the first time since international travel restrictions were lifted.

"It has been above 100 per cent of pre-COVID volumes in the following months, with the exception of May 2024."

Most visitors from New Zealand, China, India

The number of short-term visitors to Australia in June 2024 increased by 8.4 per cent on the previous year, with 587,760 arrivals.

The number of arrivals has reached 85 per cent of the pre-COVID 2018-19 level and increased in all states and territories over the year.

Ms Dobak said China had "made a notable movement in the top five countries that short-term visitors arrived from, becoming the second-most popular country for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic".

"India was the fifth-most popular destination, however it was the only country in the top five to surpass its pre-COVID level," she said.

The majority of short-term visitors in June 2024 were from New Zealand (103,850), followed by China (55,670), the United States (52,460), Singapore (50,610) and India (39,550).

Most visitors were travelling to New South Wales and Victoria.

However, the number of international students arriving in June 2024 decreased by 11,390 students compared to the previous year, with 39, 230 arriving.

This was also 14.8 per cent lower than pre-COVID levels (June 2019).

Mr Skeggs said it had been difficult to predict how long it would take for travel numbers to recover following COVID-19 restrictions. 

"It's difficult to say at the best of times," he said.

"It's not unexpected that it took some time for the industry to recover. 

"It was very, very uncertain as to what would happen a couple of years ago when the borders reopened, in terms of how long it would take." 

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Brief State Non-Medical Exemptions from School Immunization Requirements

All 50 states and Washington D.C. have laws requiring certain vaccines for students to attend school. Many states align their vaccine requirements with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices . All states allow exemptions from school immunization requirements for children who are unable to receive vaccines for medical reasons. State laws vary regarding non-medical exemptions, for religious or personal reasons. Personal exemptions are also referred to as "philosophical exemptions" by some states.

Thirty states and Washington D.C. allow exemptions for people who have religious objections to immunizations. Thirteen 13 states allow exemptions for either religious or personal reasons. Two states, Louisiana and Minnesota, do not specify whether the non-medical exemption must be for religious or personal reasons. Five states do not allow any type of non-medical exemption.

The map below indicates each state's non-medical exemption policy. The map also links to the statutes for each state regarding school vaccine requirements and exemptions. Below the map is a table which provides more information about state exemption laws including exemption exceptions, requirements to obtain a non-medical exemption and information on states that have removed certain exemption policies.

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Map Source: Adapted from the LexisNexis StateNet Database and the Immunization Action Coalition.

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W.H.O. Declares Global Emergency Over New Mpox Outbreak

The epidemic is concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo, but the virus has now appeared in a dozen other African countries.

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By Apoorva Mandavilli

The rapid spread of mpox, formerly called monkeypox, in African countries constitutes a global health emergency, the World Health Organization declared on Wednesday.

This is the second time in three years that the W.H.O. has designated an mpox epidemic as a global emergency. It previously did so in July 2022. That outbreak went on to affect nearly 100,000 people , primarily gay and bisexual men, in 116 countries, and killed about 200 people.

The threat this time is deadlier. Since the beginning of this year, the Democratic Republic of Congo alone has reported 15,600 mpox cases and 537 deaths. Those most at risk include women and children under 15.

“The detection and rapid spread of a new clade of mpox in eastern D.R.C., its detection in neighboring countries that had not previously reported mpox, and the potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the W.H.O.’s director general.

The outbreak has spread through 13 countries in Africa, including a few that had never reported mpox cases before. On Tuesday, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared a “public health emergency of continental security,” the first time the organization has taken that step since the African Union granted it the power to do so last year.

“It’s in the interests of the countries, of the continent and of the world to get our arms around this and stop transmission as soon as we can,” said Dr. Nicole Lurie, the executive director for preparedness and response at the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, a nonprofit that finances vaccine development.

Facing the threat of global spread, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has urged clinicians and the public in the United States to be alert for the virus.

The W.H.O.’s designation of a “public health emergency of international concern” is intended to prompt member countries to begin preparing for the virus’s appearance and to share vaccines, treatments and other key resources with poorer nations.

“We need concerted international action to stem this recent, novel outbreak,” said Gregg Gonsalves, an epidemiologist at Yale University who served on the W.H.O.’s mpox committee in 2022.

The outbreak that year stayed mostly within tight sexual networks, among gay and bisexual men. A combination of behavioral changes and vaccination tamped down the spread.

In the United States, for example, the toll dropped to about 1,700 cases last year from more than 30,000 in 2022.

The version of mpox that has been circulating in Congo has always been more virulent, and currently has a death rate of about 3 percent, compared with 0.2 percent in the 2022 outbreak. The infection can produce fever, respiratory symptoms, muscle aches and swollen lymph nodes, as well as a rash on the hands, feet, chest, mouth or genitals.

Until recently, it spread mainly through consumption of contaminated meat or close contact with infected animals and people. Most of the deaths have been in children, who in this region of Africa are already beset by malnutrition and infectious diseases like cholera, measles and polio.

Should the outbreak spread globally, children in developed countries are likely to be less vulnerable to severe illness, experts have said.

Last year, for the first time, scientists discovered sexual transmission of this version of mpox, with cases split about equally among young men and women. According to genetic analyses , sometime around September, the virus gained mutations that enabled it to spread more readily among people. It has done so partly through heterosexual prostitution .

This viral type has not surfaced outside Africa. Over all, there have been more than 17,500 presumed and confirmed mpox cases in 13 countries, according to Africa C.D.C . Most of the cases and deaths have occurred in Congo.

Given the rapid spread, the declaration of a global health emergency was justified, said Anne Rimoin, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, who served on the 2022 mpox panel.

“I think we learned a great deal about the speed with which this virus can spread,” she said.

Amid rising numbers, Congo has approved two mpox vaccines , a Japanese product called LC16 and Jynneos, the vaccine made by Bavarian Nordic that was used in 2022 in the United States and Europe. But Congo has yet to institute an immunization plan.

On Aug. 9, the W.H.O. invited vaccine manufacturers to apply for an emergency use listing , a prerequisite for international groups such as Gavi, a global vaccine alliance, to purchase and distribute the shots in low-income nations.

Bavarian Nordic has donated 15,000 doses of Jynneos to be distributed in African countries. But that is a tiny fraction of the 10 million doses needed to control the outbreak, according to Africa C.D.C.

“The challenge is that these vaccines are not sufficient,” even if countries try to protect only the people at highest risk, said Dr. Dimie Ogoina, a Nigerian scientist and chair of the W.H.O.’s mpox emergency committee.

LC16 was used in Japanese children in the 1970s. Clinical trials funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations are now evaluating whether Jynneos can protect children and people who have already been exposed to the virus , Dr. Lurie said.

The organization is also supporting the development of a new mRNA vaccine made by BioNTech that would protect against mpox and related viruses, such as smallpox.

“This outbreak has been smoldering for quite a long time, and we continually have missed opportunities to shut it down,” Dr. Lurie said. “I’m really glad that everybody is now paying attention and focusing their efforts on this.”

Apoorva Mandavilli is a reporter focused on science and global health. She was a part of the team that won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for coverage of the pandemic. More about Apoorva Mandavilli