Australia announced yesterday (7 February) that it will fully reopen its borders to fully vaccinated visa holders including business travellers, tourists and other visitors from 21 February. The reopening comes as welcome news for many sectors including international businesses.
“If you’re double vaccinated, we look forward to welcoming you back,”
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.
Australia shuttered its borders in March 2020 baring most foreigners and business travellers from entering the country in order to combat COVID. It was only in December last year that some skilled migrants and other visa holders were permitted to enter the territory.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday Morrison said that once the borders reopen, those entering Australia would need to present proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated business travellers who have a medical exemption will need still need to apply for permission to travel and, if successful, will be required to undergo quarantine at a hotel and will be subject to state and territory requirements.
The announcement will give certainty to the tourism and business sectors and allow them to start planning, hiring and preparing for the reopening. In 2018-19 travel generated more than AU$ 60 billion for the Australian economy and employed more than 660,000 people in tourism related industries.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
