world new news

From 10 June, Japan will accept foreign tourists in stages. Initially, this will be limited to guided and organised tours only from countries listed as “blue” (low risk). Australia is listed as a blue country. The company organising your tour will sponsor your visa application. Be advised that Japan’s visa-waiver program is still suspended. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Japan overall due to the impacts of COVID-19. Higher levels apply in some areas.

COVID-19 restrictions have eased across Belgium. Face masks are no longer mandatory except in health facilities. The ban on non-essential travel from outside the EU has been lifted. You're no longer required to complete a Passenger Locator Form (PLF), present a COVID-19 vaccination or recovery certificate, or a negative COVID-19 test. The requirement for quarantine and COVID-19 testing on arrival has been removed. Entry restrictions still apply if you're coming from a very high-risk country (see "Travel"). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Belgium due to the risk of terrorist attack.

To enter Côte d'Ivoire, you no longer need proof of a negative COVID-19 test result if you’re fully vaccinated. If you’re not fully vaccinated, you’ll need evidence of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 72 hours of arrival. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Côte d'Ivoire overall due to the high risk of civil unrest and the high levels of violent crime.

You can travel to the Netherlands with proof of COVID-19 vaccination or evidence of recovery (see 'Travel'). Most internal COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, including the requirement to wear face masks on aircraft and in airports. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in the Netherlands due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Fully vaccinated travellers no longer need to provide pre-departure COVID-19 test results or be tested on arrival at Kotoka International Airport. Non-resident unvaccinated travellers won't be granted entry into Ghana. Land borders are now open. Entry requirements apply (see 'Travel'). The wearing of face masks is no longer compulsory. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Ghana overall due to the impacts of COVID-19. Other levels apply in some areas.  

A nationwide State of Emergency is in force. The Central African Republic's airspace is closed to foreign governments and NGOs. A nationwide curfew is in place from 6pm to 5am. COVID-19 is widespread in CAR. If you're travelling to CAR, despite our advice, you may be required to self-isolate for 14 days or obtain a COVID-19 test on arrival. Restrictions may change at short notice. We advise: Do not travel  to the Central African Republic due to the dangerous security situation, activities of armed groups and high levels of serious crime.

Various COVID-19 restrictions on movements and gatherings are in place, including wearing a face mask in public. Follow the advice of local authorities on COVID-19 related restrictions. Reduced international commercial flights are available. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Cameroon overall due to civil unrest and high levels of violent crime.

The security situation in Ukraine continues to be volatile. Heavy fighting, including bombardments, explosions and missile launches, is ongoing throughout Ukraine, including in major cities. There have been many civilian casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted, including in areas not directly affected by fighting. Do not travel to Ukraine, there is a real risk to life. If you’re in Ukraine, shelter in place until you judge it’s safe to depart. Review your personal security plans. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Where it is safe to do so, you should leave Ukraine. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. You need to carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or have damage, including to bridges and facilities. Additional restrictions or changes to entry requirements to other destinations could be imposed suddenly. Expect some congestion on routes, at checkpoints and...

There is an outbreak of anthrax in animals in the Port Loko district in north western Sierra Leone. The outbreak is currently contained to that district. Avoid contact with any sick animals in that area as anthrax can be contagious to humans. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Sierra Leone due to: the high level of crime the possibility of civil unrest. 

You can enter Israel, regardless of vaccination status, if you meet all current entry requirements, including having health insurance which covers COVID-19. Measures are in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the Palestinian Territories. Measures include restrictions at tourist and religious sites. Gaza’s entry and exit points with Egypt may close without notice. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Israel and the Palestinian Territories overall due to civil unrest and the threat of terrorist attack, rocket fire and military confrontation. Higher levels apply in some areas.

Anti-government demonstrations are expected in Ouagadougou between 20-22 May. We advise you do not travel to Burkina Faso due to civil unrest, the high risk of terrorist attack and kidnapping. The Australian High Commission in Accra has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in West Africa. The military has seized power and detained the President. The situation remains unclear and could deteriorate quickly at short notice. If you’re in Burkina Faso you should make plans to leave when it’s safe to do so. Contact airlines or travel providers for more details. There's a high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnapping. Local extremist militant groups have attacked targets in Burkina Faso. If you’re caught up in unrest, you should shelter in a safe place, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations and monitor the media. Pay attention to your personal safety. We advise: Do not travel to Burkina Faso overall due to ongoing civil unrest, high risk of terrorist attacks and kidn...

All COVID-19 travel restrictions for entry into Norway have been lifted. Domestic COVID-19 restrictions have also been lifted. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Norway due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Vanuatu will ease travel restrictions from 1 July 2022. Until this time, you can only enter Vanuatu if you're a citizen, permanent resident or other priority traveller as approved by the Government of Vanuatu. You need to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test between 24 to 72 hours before flying. If you're 18 years or older, you must be fully vaccinated. You're required to quarantine for 3 days on arrival. Stay up to date with entry requirements at the Ministry of Health's COVID-19 travel page and the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Vanuatu due to the impacts of COVID-19. 

There are no COVID-19 related entry restrictions, and no domestic COVID-19 restrictions in place in Denmark. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Denmark due to the impacts of COVID-19.

There are no COVID-19 restrictions to enter Serbia. Wearing face masks indoors is recommended and remains mandatory in health facilities. We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Serbia due to the impacts of COVID-19.

All COVID-19 travel restrictions for entry into Iceland have been lifted. Pre-pandemic entry rules apply. Domestic COVID-19 restrictions have also been lifted. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Iceland due to impacts of COVID-19.

Entry into New Caledonia depends on your vaccination status and the country you're travelling from. If you're fully vaccinated or aged 12 and over and come from a country classified as green or orange (including Australia), you are required to show proof of vaccination status. You no longer require a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test. You still need a written undertaking to take a COVID-19 (PCR or RAT) test 2 days after arrival. If you're travelling from countries classified as red, or are not fully vaccinated, you must follow strict health rules including mandatory quarantine, pre-departure tests (medically supervised PCR or RAT) and proof of compelling travel reasons. The classification of countries (green, orange, red) as used by authorities in New Caledonia is available on the French Government website. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution  in New Caledonia due to the impacts of COVID-19.

You no longer need to show proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative COVID-19 test to enter Austria. Most COVID-19 measures have been lifted except for mandatory FFP2 masks on public transport and in some shops. Further changes may occur at short notice, check for updates before travel. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Austria due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Samoa remains at Alert Level 2 under State of Emergency Orders until midnight on 31 May. Under Alert Level 2, businesses can operate between 6am to 10pm on Monday to Saturday and from 12pm to 10pm on Sundays. Samoan citizens, permit holders and approved contracted workers can now travel to Samoa. Weekly flights to and from Australia have been approved for June 2022. Samoa's borders will re-open to all passport holders from 1 August 2022. To receive information on current border settings, Australians can contact the Australian High Commission at this email: apia.admin@dfat.gov.au. If you've had a positive COVID-19 (PCR) test, you'll only be allowed to travel to Samoa if you meet strict requirements. We advise: Reconsider your need to travel  to Samoa due to the impacts of COVID-19.

In March 2022, gunmen attacked a train travelling between Abuja and Kaduna, killing several passengers and abducting others. Avoid intercity transport by road and rail. Groups often target transport routes. You should reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria. The potential for terrorism, kidnapping, crime and civil unrest is high throughout Nigeria. We continue to advise do not travel to other parts of Nigeria due to the very high risk to your safety. If despite our advice you undertake travel within Nigeria, research routes and get professional security advice and support before departing. We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall due to high threats of terrorist attack and kidnapping, the volatile security situation, possible violent civil unrest and high levels of violent crime. Higher levels apply.

Laos’ borders have reopened to international travellers. Australian travellers can obtain visas-on-arrival and e-visas. Legal spouses (foreign citizens) of Lao nationals will need to register via the Lao Greenpass website. You won't need a COVID-19 test if you're fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers over 12 years old will need to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 (rapid ATK) test taken within 48 hours before travel. You won't need to quarantine. If you contract COVID-19 while in Laos, you'll be responsible for your treatment costs. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Laos overall due to the impacts of COVID-19. Higher levels apply in some areas.

The state of emergency in place in El Salvador has been extended. This is due to the continuing high number of gang-related crimes, including a high number of murders. Follow the advice of local authorities. We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to El Salvador due to the  high levels of gang-related violence and crime and the impacts of COVID-19.

You no longer need to show a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or undertake any COVID-19 testing to enter or leave the Dominican Republic. You'll need to complete an online electronic ticket for entry and exit (see 'Travel'). We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Dominican Republic due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Only fully vaccinated passengers can travel to Brazil by air, unless they have an exemption. Before boarding a flight to Brazil you must show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination. You do not need to take a COVID-19 test to enter Brazil if you're fully vaccinated. If you're exempt from vaccination, you must provide a negative PCR or negative rapid antigen test taken no more than 24 hours before boarding. Brazil has also opened its land and sea borders to travellers fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (see 'Travel'). We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Brazil due to the impacts of COVID-19.

To enter South Africa you’ll need to show proof that you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (see 'Travel'). Heavy rains and flooding in the city of Durban, as well as other areas in KwaZulu-Natal Province have caused damage to infrastructure and travel routes. Follow the advice of local authorities. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in South Africa due to the high level of serious crime.

If you've received a COVID-19 booster vaccination, you can transit or enter Brunei quarantine free via the Brunei International Airport. If you’re not fully vaccinated, you must seek prior approval to enter and comply with visa requirements. You'll need to complete a Brunei E-health Arrival Declaration form and undertake a pre-departure COVID-19 test, along with several pre-departure and on-arrival requirements (see 'Travel') We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Brunei due to the impacts of COVID-19.

You no longer need to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test or vaccination certificate to enter Armenia. Armenia has extended its nationwide COVID-19 quarantine rules, so measures may change at short notice (see 'Travel'). There's no longer a state of emergency/martial law following the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Due to the risk of armed conflict, you're advised not to travel within 5kms of Armenia's border with Azerbaijan. We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Armenia overall due to the impacts of COVID-19. Higher levels apply in some areas.

We have reviewed our travel advice, and we no longer advise you 'Reconsider your need to travel' to Kampala. We continue to advise you 'Exercise a high degree of caution' in Uganda overall. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Uganda overall due to the threat of terrorist attack, civil unrest and criminal activity. Higher levels apply in some areas.

A Public Emergency has been declared in Sri Lanka and curfews can be imposed with short notice. Carry relevant travel and identification documents with you at all times. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. Public demonstrations continue to occur throughout Sri Lanka. Demonstrations that draw large groups of people can turn violent. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. Avoid demonstrations and events that draw large groups. You may experience disruption to fuel supply and planned, lengthy power outages. Import delays may impact your ability to access some medicines and food items. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution  to Sri Lanka due to the impacts of COVID-19.

The Presidential inauguration will be held on 19 May and celebrations for the 20th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s restoration of Independence on 20 May (see 'Safety'). Large crowds are expected during these events. Follow the advice of local authorities. You can enter Timor-Leste without prior approval if you're fully vaccinated against COVID-19. You must present proof of full vaccination (2 doses) at check-in and on arrival. Entry requirements can change with little notice. If you don't comply with entry requirements, you'll be subject to 14 days quarantine. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Timor-Leste due to safety and the impacts of COVID-19.

Fully vaccinated travellers can enter Hong Kong. You must present your COVID-19 vaccination record. You must also have evidence of a valid negative COVID-19 (nucleic acid) test issued within 48 hours of boarding your flight. You'll need to take a COVID-19 (RAT) as well as (PCR) test on arrival. You'll also need to take multiple COVID-19 tests during quarantine and at a community testing clinic on day 12. Dual citizenship is no longer recognised in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region following the application of the Nationality Law of the People’s Republic of China (see ‘Local laws’). As previously advised, Hong Kong's National Security Law could be interpreted broadly and you could break the law without intending to. If you’re concerned about the new law, reconsider your need to remain in Hong Kong (see 'Local laws'). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Hong Kong due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Croatia has removed most COVID-19 related restrictions. You’re no longer required to present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter Croatia. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Croatia due to the impacts of COVID-19.

If you're 18 years of age or older, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before you enter Colombia. If you're not fully vaccinated, you must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result taken no more than 72 hours before your departure, or COVID-19 (RAT) test taken no more than 48 hours before your departure. Face mask requirements depend on the vaccination rates in each municipality (see Travel). Protests and rallies may also occur around elections or on commemorative days. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks around Colombia (see Safety). Criminals target foreign citizens and tourists via popular dating applications and websites (see Safety). Use only reputable health-care providers if undergoing elective surgery in Colombia (see Health). We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Colombia overall due to the impacts of COVID-19.

You must provide either a negative RT-PCR or negative antigen test, administered and certified by a health care professional to enter the Philippines. If you're fully vaccinated you can enter the Philippines without a visa and without quarantine, provided you meet certain requirements. If you're entering the Philippines visa-free, you must have travel insurance for COVID-19 treatment with a minimum coverage of $US35,000. A range of COVID-19 measures are in place throughout the country. These can change regularly. Follow the Philippines Department of Tourism for the latest advice. We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to the Philippines overall due to the impacts of COVID-19. Higher levels apply in some areas.

All COVID-19 restrictions in Bulgaria have now been removed. You're no longer required to present your COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Bulgaria. You can access indoor or outdoor venues without needing to show any proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Bulgaria due to the impacts of COVID-19.

If you're fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can enter Fiji without approval or quarantine. You don't need a negative COVID-19 test to enter. If you're 16 years old or over, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter Fiji. You must show proof of full vaccination at check-in. If you're 12 years old or over, you must show evidence of a pre-booked Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) within 48 to 72 hours on arrival. Face masks are optional, and social distancing requirements aren't being enforced. Review the Ministry of Health and Medical Services website and Facebook page to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Fiji. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Fiji due to the impacts of COVID-19.

We now advise you exercise a high degree of caution in Vietnam. COVID-19 case numbers have decreased considerably from a peak in February-March. You'll need to isolate if you contract COVID-19 in Vietnam. You'll need to closely monitor your health if you're a close contact. Entry and social distancing measures vary between provinces and may change at short notice. Measures could impact your ability to travel and access essential services. Follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor the Australian Embassy's social media for major updates. We now advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Vietnam due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Switzerland has relaxed all COVID-19 restrictions. You're no longer required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination, proof of recovery from COVID-19, or a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test to enter Switzerland. You no longer need to wear face masks or present COVID-19 certificates to enter public spaces. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Switzerland due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Green Passes are no longer required for most activities in Italy. Face masks are required in some indoor venues and public transport. Face masks aren't required, but are recommended inside enclosed public spaces. COVID-19 restrictions can change quickly. Follow the direction of local authorities. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Italy due to the impacts of COVID-19.  

You can now enter Lithuania without COVID-19 testing or declaration requirements. There's a nation-wide state of emergency in response to Russian military action in Ukraine, in effect until 29 June 2022. You're required by law to carry photo identification with you at all times while travelling in Lithuania (see ‘Travel’). We now advise: Exercise a high degree of caution  in Lithuania due to the impacts of COVID-19. Higher levels apply in some areas.

You can enter Taiwan with an approved entry permit or visa if you're a foreign spouse or relative of Taiwanese citizens, travelling for business or an international student. If you're entering Taiwan (including from South Korea) you must take a COVID-19 (PCR) test immediately after arrival. Additional requirements apply if you're travelling from Vietnam. (see 'Travel'). If you test negative, you can proceed to immigration and customs. If you test positive, but have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, you'll be taken to a government designated facility or an enhanced quarantine hotel. If you have serious symptoms, you'll be taken directly to hospital for further testing and treatment. After arrival you must quarantine for 10 days (not including the day you arrive), followed by 7 days of self-health management. We advise:  Exercise a high degree of caution in Taiwan due to the impacts of COVID-19.

Recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Shanghai, Beijing and other large cities have resulted in mass testing, residential lockdowns, closures of schools, businesses and suspension of public transport. Restrictions have impacted daily business and the ability to move around freely. Restrictions in Shanghai are particularly severe. Restrictions include mandatory regular COVID-19 testing with positive cases being subject to the requirements of local authorities and possible transfer to a designated medical or quarantine facility or additional testing. There are ongoing food security issues and a lack of access to hospital intensive care (ICU) facilities in Shanghai. Access to medical facilities and other essential services has been disrupted. Further COVID-19 outbreaks throughout China are possible and countermeasures including flight suspensions and re-routing may be imposed with little or no warning. Stay informed of local conditions, particularly if you intend to travel within China. Pre-depa...

Turkey has removed the requirement to wear face masks indoors, apart from in hospitals and on public transport. We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Turkey overall due to the high threat of terrorist attack. Higher levels apply.

We continue to recommend do not travel to Venezuela. If you decide to travel, consider that flight options to and from Venezuela are very limited and travelling within the country is challenging (see 'Travel'). COVID-19 remains a risk. Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Venezuela. Contact the Australian Embassy in Colombia for assistance (see 'Local Contacts'). We advise: Do not travel  to Venezuela due to the unstable political and economic situation, shortages of food, water, medicine and petrol, and high levels of violent crime.

Malaysia has reopened to tourism. New entry requirements are in place. Check entry requirements on the 'My Safe Travel' website. These requirements may change at short notice. Monitor the websites of the Malaysian Department of Immigration, My Safe Travel and Malaysian Ministry of Health, and social media for any changes (see ‘Travel’). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Malaysia overall due to the impacts of COVID-19. Higher levels apply in some areas.