COVID-19 restrictions

Australian travel restrictions

The Australian Government have strict border measures in place to protect the health of the Australian community. Currently only Australian citizens, Permanent residents and immediate family members can travel to Australia. You cannot come to Australia unless you are in an exempt category or have been granted an individual exemption to the current travel restrictions.

For more information on whether you can travel and how to seek an exemption to the travel restrictions refer to the Department of Home Affairs website here.

Visa processing arrangements and disruption of services

We are prioritising processing visa applications for those travellers in the exempt categories to support urgent travel.

A number of services are impacted by the current COVID-19 situation resulting in considerable delays to applicants obtaining requested information. We are aware applicants are experiencing delays in obtaining biometrics, health checks, police clearances, documents from government agencies and many others.

You will be afforded additional time to provide this information.  You do not need to contact us to seek an extension of time.  Please attach your documents to your online application through ImmiAccount as soon as you are able.  Please do not send duplicate documents or confirmation emails to this mailbox.

Biometric collection appointments for Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal

Biometric collection services have resumed at the following existing biometrics collection locations:

– VFS Thimphu on Monday 2 November

– VFS Dhaka on Monday 2 November

– VFS Kathmandu on Wednesday 4 November

The resumption of biometrics collection services through the Australian Visa Application Centres (AVACs) and Australian Biometrics Collection Centres (ABCCs) is dependent on in-country COVID-19 restrictions.

In addition, collection centres offer enquiry and assisted online lodgement services. Paper applications cannot currently be accepted due to COVID restrictions and border closures.

You can use your existing Requirement to provide personal identifiers (biometrics) letter to book and attend an appointment. If you have applied for your visa online, a copy of this letter is available in your ImmiAccount.

You must contact your local AVAC or ABCC to arrange an appointment. You can check our website for updated information on AVACs and ABCCs including contact information and opening times in your country. See: Offices outside Australia