Australian government opened up travel exemptions for parents of citizens and permanent residents to come to Australia once international borders reopen next month. Home Affairs Karen Andrews announced that from Friday, October 22, parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply for a travel exemption to Australia from November 1 2021.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week announced a significant change in the definition of families would mean the parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents would be classified as “immediate family”. So parents – be that biological, adoptive, legal, step-parents or parents-in-law – can now apply for an exemption from Friday.
The Prime Minister said: “From November 1 if you are Australian residents, citizens and their immediate family – and I can confirm that immediate family will include the parents of Australian residents and citizens – (then travel restrictions will ease for you). And I know, particularly in our Indian community, that has been a very important issue for them, and I know that will be welcome.””There’s a lot of people out of India, the UK, the US, who want to come home and be here for Christmas and be with their family here at Christmas, so that will enable that,” he added.Minister for Home Affairs Karen Andrews said the changes would reunite many families separated by the pandemic.
Minister Andrews said, “With today’s change, parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents can reunite in Australia. In line with Australia’s National Plan, I look forward to further easing travel restrictions over coming weeks and months as Australia’s vaccination rate continues to climb.
“Applications for a travel exemption can be made through the Department of Home Affairs Travel Exemption Portal, for travel to Australia from November 1 2021.
Evidence of a parental relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident is required, with examples of the type of evidence required available on the Department’s website. Parents must also have a valid passport, visa and proof of vaccination for travel to Australia.All international travellers will remain subject to state and territory quarantine arrangements.
