Australia/New Zealand (NZ) Travel Bubble

Travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand

Where travellers between the two countries can travel safely to the other country without the need to quarantine nor the need for a travel exemption. This bubble started on 19 April 2021.

This arrangement applies to Australian citizens, permanent residents, New Zealand citizens, any foreign nationals as long as they can meet:

• They have been in Australia or New Zealand for at least 14 days immediately before the proposed travel date
• Immigration/visa conditions- i.e. have a valid visa to the other country
• Health requirements
• Character requirements
• border clearance requirements

When entering Australia:

• Must have been in NZ or Australia for at least 14 days prior to arrival
• Meet normal immigration requirements including visa requirements, health and character
• Separate airport process.
• Complete the Australian travel declaration at least 72 hours before the departure for Australia

Who can enter New Zealand?

• Must have been in NZ or Australia for at least 14 days prior to arrival
• Meet normal immigration requirements:
  • visa waiver nationals (NZeTA) for visits- only certain passport holders
  • or lodged a work, visitor or a student visa online which reopened from Monday 19 April 2021
• Must not be waiting for the outcome of a Covid-19 test nor be infectious if had a positive test in the past as per a doctor certification

You cannot use this exemption to take another overseas flight to another country once you arrive in Australia or New Zealand. If you travel to New Zealand from Australia then another country then return to Australia you will need to ensure you can enter Australia and will be subject to the 14 days mandatory hotel quarantine at your own expense.

Zones at Australia’s airport

There is now a green and red zone in Australian airports to separate passengers coming o quarantine free flights (i.e. from New Zealand) compared to passengers coming from other countries who will need to mandatory quarantine for at least 14 days.

Flights to New Zealand from Australia for those qualify above are also called green flights.

What does this travel bubble mean for me if I am s48 barred?

The travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand means you can travel outside of Australia and lodge your application offshore if you are s48 barred and cannot lodge your application in Australia.

You will need to:

1. Be holding the right visa in Australia- if you are on a bridging visa c or E, you won’t be able to use this method
2. Make sure you obtain the correct visa to New Zealand whether it is a visitor visa where you must prove you are a genuine visitor or NZeTA if your country of passport is in the following list:

3. If you hold a bridging visa A, you must apply for a Bridging visa B prior to your travel to New Zeland. To qualify for a bridging visa B, you need to have a compelling reason for travel either personal or business reason, travelling offshore for a holiday or to lodge a visa application is not an acceptable reason.

If you travel to New Zealand from Australia, you do not need an exemption to re-enter Australia unless the rules change.

Need Help?

Our firm is founded by Award Winner and Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyer, Marial Lewis who can look after your migration question.

If you require assistance with an AAT or court case in Australia, feel free to contact our office on contact@crossoverlaw.com.au or book a 15 minutes obligation free consultation.

DISCLAIMER: Immigration law is complex and is subject to constant regulatory and policy change by the Australian government.  The information provided above is a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice. If you require legal advice please get in touch with our office.