Pre-departure and arrival information

Latest information

This information is for international students, education institutions and agents for international students' pre-departure and arrival in Sydney and NSW.

Travelling from China, Hong Kong and Macau

Pre-departure COVID-19 test is no longer needed for people travelling to Australia from the People's Republic of China, including Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau. Please refer to the latest announcement from the Australian Government Department of Health.

Masks no longer required on flights travelling to Australia

Since 9 September 2022, masks are no longer required on flights travelling to Australia.

Travellers to Australia should also 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.

We are delighted to be welcoming you to Sydney and New South Wales (NSW). To help you prepare for your travel, please use this checklist to ensure you have all the relevant information and documents required.

Please read carefully and plan ahead to ensure you have a safe and smooth journey as you travel to Sydney and New South Wales (NSW).

Your checklist

Step 1 (Mandatory)

Ensure your passport and student visa for Australia are valid

Check that your passport is valid for at least six months prior to your arrival in Australia.

All international students must ensure that their student visa for Australia is valid.

Please visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for information. Apply for your visa at least six weeks before your course starts.

Complete as soon as possible.

Step 2 (Recommended)

Organise your accommodation in Sydney

It is best to book short-term accommodation before you arrive in Australia and look for longer-term options when you arrive. This allows you time to explore the neighbourhoods and view the properties and can help you choose an accommodation option that best suits you. Temporary accommodation includes budget hostels and hotels.

Study NSW has a list of student accommodation options in Sydney and regional NSW.

In compliance with visa condition 8533 on your student visa grant, you must let your education provider know your residential address within seven (7) days of arriving in Australia. If your residential address changes you must let your education provider know within 7 days of the change.

Complete two weeks before departure.

Step 3 (Recommended)

Visit the International Student Welcome Desk at Sydney Airport

Our team of international student volunteers are waiting to welcome you when you arrive at Sydney Airport.

Visit our desk located at Exit A of the Airport Arrivals Hall and let us know if you need assistance upon your arrival.

Step 4 (Recommended)

Organise your transport from Sydney Airport

Please contact your education institution for transfer options or visit the Sydney Airport website.

Step 5 (Recommended)

Add proof of your COVID-19 vaccination to Service NSW app

If you’re not eligible for Medicare, you can still add your COVID-19 digital certificate to the Service NSW App by using the Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI) service through myGov. This means you can quickly check in and show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination wherever it’s required.

More help in getting proof of your COVID-19 vaccinations online is available here. Translated versions are also available here.

It is an offence not to comply with a Public Health Order. Penalties can apply to individuals and corporations. Additional on the spot fines can also apply.