According to the ABC, the US Supreme Court has just revived parts of Trump’s travel ban on people from six Muslim-majority countries and refugees, whilst agreeing to decide its legality later this year. The six countries involved include: Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. But exemptions for those with “bona fide relationships” with Americans or US entities apply, including spouses, other close family members, employers and universities.
The US administration has said the travel ban is needed to allow time to implement stronger vetting measures, though it’s already rolled out new requirements not blocked by courts, including extra questions for visa applicants. This follows general tightening of US border checks, that saw an Australian lady on a tourist visa with a return flight, deported in May (for suspicion she planned to immigrate illegally to join her US boyfriend), and another lock-up of an Australian man in April, for overstaying his visa by one hour (after reported US Border Patrol delays).
xThis all comes in stark contrast to ABC reports in late January that stated new technology will mean many travellers will soon not need to present their passports when entering or leaving Australia. The ABC had reported: “The Department of Immigration and Border Protection is seeking tenders for a self-processing system to be introduced later this year. The system will use fingerprints, iris or facial structure recognition at major air and sea ports. Immigration Minister Peter Dutton said the aim was for more than 90 per cent of passengers to avoid paperwork or manual processing by staff.”
It was stated that the $78 million upgrade would also boost security at the nation’s borders by making it easier to detect threats. However, until facial recognition and fingerprint technologies replace passports at Australian airports (if this new self-processing system goes ahead), the passport is still your prime means of entering and exiting the country.
The Australia.gov.au states there are a few things to still keep in mind under their Passports and Travel section, with these recommendations and guidance links available through their site for any passport related resources you need.
Smartraveller
Travel advisory and consular assistance service. Provides travel advice for countries and events, guidance about travel insurance and staying safe and healthy, and getting help overseas. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Visas for Australians travelling overseas
Only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their visa requirements. Provides links to visa information for some countries Australians visit frequently and links to foreign embassies and consulates in Australia. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Apply for or renew an Australian passport
Start your application online. All applications must be lodged in person at your nearest Post Office. If you’re overseas, check with your local Australian diplomatic mission or consulate. It takes about three weeks to get a new passport. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Changed your name? Make sure your passport is in your current name
You may wish to change the name that appears in your passport, due to marriage, divorce etc. In most instances, you will need to provide evidence of your name change from an Australian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Child alert requests – passports
A Child Alert is a warning to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that there may be circumstances to be considered before an Australian passport is issued to a child. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Child passports
For the issue of a child passport you must lodge an application with written consent from all those with parental responsibility, or with an Australian court order that permits the child to have a travel document or to travel internationally. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Children – court orders
The role of police in family law matters is primarily to act on orders issued by a Court, and to prevent the unlawful removal of children from Australia.
Australian Federal Police.
- Parenting orders
- Family Law Watch List
- Recovery of children
Dual nationals travel information
Provides travel information and tips to dual nationals. Includes information about what dual nationality is, how people become dual nationals and the implications of dual nationality when travelling overseas. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Duty free concessions
Lists the duty-free concessions available to travellers entering or returning to Australia. Information available in multiple languages.
Department of Immigration and Border Protection
Lost, stolen or damaged passports
Lost or stolen passports must be reported to the Australian Passport Office as soon as practicable after you become aware of the loss or theft. Damage to your passport could prevent you from travelling overseas. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- Report a lost or stolen passport
- Damaged and faulty passports
Movement records
Arrival and departure records of travellers to and from Australia since 1981 are contained within the Movements Reconstruction database. You can request access to your own international movement records using the form on this page. Department of Immigration and Border Protection
Register your travel plans
All Australians travelling overseas should register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade before travel. Your registration information will help find you in an emergency. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
State and territory offices
Australian offices of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Travel documents for entry to Australia
Everyone travelling to Australia must present a valid and approved travel document as evidence of their identity and nationality.
Department of Immigration and Border Protection
If you suspect you may have complications regarding your passport, it’s important to explore these resources before you commit to buy a flight overseas.
Whether you plan a trip for a short or long duration, consult an expert in travel with an ATAS accredited travel agent for advice and help you plan for a smooth departure. Also, check out our handy holiday checklist for tips on packing and what to do pre-departure.
An ATAS agent will help guide you on passport tips and visa requirements. They are the destination experts and can build the perfect holiday itinerary and provide advice on how to best avoid any unexpected delays. Travel is meant to be relaxing, so sail smoothly through any turbulent waters with an ATAS travel agent by your side, during these changing times.
If you want to learn more about recent travel suggestions and hot travel topics, be sure to review other handy hints within the regular ATAS blog articles. For all you need regarding world travels – refer to your local ATAS travel agents to get you where you need to go.
Want to set travel plans? Learn more about ATAS accredited travel agents, and why you need to book your next holiday with an expert in travel.
Search for a local ATAS accredited travel agent. Travel the world with ATAS travel agents as your personal guide to travel.
Categories – PASSPORT TIPS LEISURE TRAVEL