#COVID19: Parents of Australians can travel to Australia from 1 November!
Australians were overjoyed on 22 October when the Minister of Home Affairs Karen Andrews announced that Australia would classify parents as ‘immediate family’ for travel to Australia from 1 November 2021!
Families can reunite after more than 18 months apart
After Australia’s borders closed due to COVID-19, only the immediate family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents could apply for exemptions to travel to Australia.
These family members were spouses, partners, and dependent children. Parents did not qualify for travel exemptions.
Understandably, this regulation led to a lot of heartache and anger for families who found themselves separated from their loved ones.
Now, finally, families can look forward to seeing each other again.
Minister Andrews said, “For more than 18 months, many families with parents overseas have missed weddings, funerals, the birth of grandchildren, and other significant events. I thank these families for their patience and their sacrifice over this period. With [the] change, parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents can reunite in Australia; they can once more hold their grandchildren, and gather in-person to share life’s significant milestones.”
Travel is only allowed to states and territories that have reached 80% of its vaccination targets
Australia has decided that parents can only travel to states and territories that have reached 80% of its double-dose vaccination targets.
This stipulation means that travel is only allowed to New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory at the time of writing. Tasmania could open for parents next as 76.12% of its residents are fully vaccinated.
You can find these up-to-date vaccination rates on this COVID-19 vaccine tracker.
Parents must also meet a short list of requirements
Parents of Australians must meet the following criteria to apply for a travel exemption:
- The applicant must be the parent of Australian citizens or permanent residents
- The parent relationship must be one of the below:
- Biological
- Adoptive
- Legal
- Stepparent
- Parent-in-law
- Parents must have a valid passport, visa, and proof of vaccination for travel to Australia.
- Parents remain subject to state and territory quarantine arrangements.
Let us help you reunite with your family!
We’ve already successfully applied for travel exemptions for three sets of parents! These parents will now get to visit their children over Christmas.
Let us make it happen for you too! It’s as simple as booking a consultation call. Our licensed advisor will guide you through the requirements, and our team will help you compile and submit your application.