November 14, 2021

How does the Australian vaccine passport impact international travel?

International travel is back on the cards for Australian citizens and permanent residents. Still, it’s essential to make sure that you meet a specific set of criteria before you start booking your holiday or round the world trip. Importantly, you’ll need to ensure that you are fully vaccinated and have a valid vaccine passport to prove it.

But what is the Australian vaccine passport? And how does it impact your international travel plans? In this guide, we’ll explain the details of this new document that you’ll need before heading out on your next overseas trip.

What is a vaccine passport?

A “vaccine passport” is an informal term for a document that proves that you’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19. When travelling abroad, you may be asked to show your vaccine passport (paper or electronic) before entering another country.

In Australia, the federal government has started issuing International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates to serve as vaccine passports for overseas travel. The certificates include the traveller’s name and date of birth, as well as information about where and when they received their vaccine.

In many ways, international certificates are similar to the proof of vaccine documentation required to visit certain places in states like New South Wales and Victoria. However, the one key difference is that this certificate is linked electronically to your passport. It’s also highly secure and uses the same safety features as a passport chip.

Currently, fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents can use their certificates to leave and re-enter the country without an exemption. Certificates can also be used to provide proof of vaccination abroad. Visa holders who have been vaccinated in Australia will also have an international digital certificate.

How to access your vaccine passport

Once you’ve had at least one dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, accessing your vaccine passport is easy. Here are the steps for requesting your certificate online or by phone.

If you’re eligible for Medicare, log into your Medicare online account through MyGov. Find the “Proof of COVID-19 vaccination” link and click on “Go to Medicare.” Then select “Request a certificate,” choose your name, and go through the steps to check your vaccination status and passport information.

Alternatively, you can access your certificate through the Express Plus Medicare mobile app. Navigate to the “Services” section and click “Proof of vaccinations.” Choose “Request a certificate” and follow the steps to confirm your vaccination and passport details.

At the end of the process, make sure to download your certificate onto your device. When travelling, you can use the digital version or bring a printed copy.

Not eligible for Medicare or want to request your certificate by phone? Call the Australian Immunisation Register at 1800 653 809.

Before you book

Keep in mind that you’ll need more than just your Australian vaccine passport to travel internationally right now. Depending on where you’re headed, you may also need proof of a negative COVID-19 test when you land. In some cases, you’ll need to upload these documents to an online portal before arriving in another country.

No matter where you’re going, Airfare Geeks can help you plan the trip of your dreams. We know that some people might be anxious about travelling abroad after COVID-19, but we’re here to make you feel comfortable about exploring the world again. You can feel confident knowing that our experienced travel agents will oversee every important detail of your trip, letting you relax and enjoy your well-deserved holiday.

Visit the Airfare Geeks website to explore RTW airfare deals, round the world itineraries, travel guides, and much more. If you have questions or want to begin the booking process, call us today on (02) 9188 7823.