Australia COVID Travel Restrictions Loosen for the First Time in Two Years

Since March of 2020, Australia has had some of the strictest COVID-19 travel restrictions in the world. On Monday, February 21, 2022, the country opened its international borders to welcome back travelers, just a few weeks shy of its two-year lockdown anniversary.

Since the announcement of the Australia travel ban ceasing just a few short weeks ago, more than 50 international flights were scheduled to land at Sydney International Airport on Monday with travelers allowed to enter all states besides Western Australia.

Travelers were greeted by a real-life welcome committee as they unboarded their planes, including lifeguards, drag queens, and a DJ. Some of the earliest visitors were provided gifts like stuffed koala toys and jars of Vegemite.

More Details On Australia’s International Reopening

Australia’s government has been slowly easing restrictions since late 2021 to transition to a new normal. It first began with looser quarantine requirements for its citizens, then transitioned to allow certain visas and international students to return. Though these changes have allowed some to enjoy the country again, certain residents and all tourists were prohibited from visiting. So, not only were excited vacationers aboard these flights, but also family members who enjoyed tearful reunions with loved ones they haven’t seen since 2020.

Though tourists are now welcome again in the country, it does not come without requirements. Double vaccinated visitors no longer have to quarantine, but unvaccinated visitors must still complete a 14-day quarantine at a hotel at their own expense.

Western Australia will open back to visitors on March 3 but will require double-vaccination and a booster in order to enter.

In conjunction with health officials, the tourism sector of Australia is thrilled with the new requirements and hopes to see an increase in bookings for international travelers in the second half of 2022.

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