According to the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, visitors to Australia are required to have two documents prepared for entry into the country: a valid passport and incoming passenger card. Incoming passenger cards are distributed to visitors aboard the means of travel into the country. Documents are returned to travelers after processing and clearance. Any visitor coming to Australia by sea will complete the immigration process onboard the vessel.
An electronic visa may be issued for travelers planning a short-term visit for business or tourism of up to three months in Australia. Travelers must have a valid passport. Temporary visas can be extended to six or 12 months based on the applicant's reason for staying, such as visiting family. The Work Holiday Visa was designed as a cultural exchange program for young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 who wish to travel and work for a year in Australia. It is ideal for student travelers who intend to support their travel expenses with a part-time job in Australia. Work Holiday Visas may be issued to citizens from Chile, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the United States.
Citizens of other countries may legally immigrate to Australia as employer-sponsored workers, professional or skilled migrants, businesspeople, specialists or doctors or nurses. Anyone intending on working in Australia under these categories will be issued visas based on the purpose of the visit. They are generally recognized as employees with skills and qualifications in occupations that are needed in Australia.
Illegal drugs, counterfeit goods and offensive types of pornography are restricted from entering or leaving Australia. Any individual attempting to enter Australia must declare firearms, weapons and ammunition; performance- and image-enhancing drugs; currency above $10,000; food, plants, animals and biological goods; medicines; protected wildlife or heritage-listed goods to the customs agent at the place of entry.
There are a few health requirements for individuals visiting or planning to reside in Australia. A legal visa will only be granted after a successful examination has been documented; travelers are responsible for the fees and completion of the exam.
