Returning to Australia

Before you return as an Australian citizen

You need a valid passport or travel document to enter Australia.

If your Australian passport has expired

Find out how to get a passport when overseas on the Australian Passport Office website.

Before you return as a foreign national or a visitor to Australia

Before you return to or visit Australia, there are things you’ll need to keep in mind.

If your Australian visa is expiring or has expired

If you hold an Australian visa and intend to return to Australia, you need a valid visa. Check your visa’s expiry date and conditions before you go overseas. You will need a valid visa to re-enter Australia.

Find out more about getting a visa and what you can bring. The Department of Home Affairs has information about visas and how to check your visa details. These links will take you away from myGov.

What health care costs to consider

If you're visiting Australia from another country, consider if you need to pay for  health insurance. Find out about paying for health care if you get sick or injured when visiting Australia.

Flying home

Learn about flight safety and behaviour before you board your flight.

If you’re returning by boat

You can find information about entering and leaving by sea on the Australian Border Force website.

Arriving at the airport

There are things you need to do before you can leave the airport.

Required documents

You need to present a valid passport or travel document and your completed Incoming Passenger Card.

Find out more about what travel documents you need to enter Australia on the Australian Border Force website.

Biosecurity screening

Australia has strict laws around bringing in items that are prohibited or pose a biosecurity risk. You must declare or dispose of any at risk items before going through biosecurity screening. There are harsh penalties if you give misleading information.

The Australian Border Force website has more information about what you can bring into Australia.