Current Travel Advisories
Current Smartraveller Travel Advice at a glance
Please see the map below for a current overview and go to the Smartraveller webside for individual country advice.
European Entry/Exit System (EES) - Schengen Area
The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) starts on 12 October for all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen Area.
United States of America
E3 Visa Changes - Application and Renewal
Up until now, E3 visa applicants and holders were sometimes able to apply for and renew their visas by arranging interviews at US embassies and consulates in countries in which they were not residents - this allowed relatively quick trips to European locations like the UK, or to Caribbean countries, rather than embark on long trips back to Australia.
Now, a new State Department directive released on September 6, directs US embassies and consulates to only accept non-immigrant visa applications from applicants who are residents of the country in which the consulate is located. This may mean that Australians seeking to apply for or renew an E3 visa may need to return to Australia.
General Entry Issues
We are seeing an increasing number of stories involving visitors to the United States being detained by Immigration on arrival or transit, and not provided with the opportunity to simply return home on the next flight.
Smartraveller, while maintaining the view that Australian travellers should "exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America", has also just published the following statement, which is consistent with those issued by the UK and a range of European countries.
"Entry requirements are strict. US authorities have broad powers to decide if you're eligible to enter and may determine that you are inadmissible for any reason under US law. Check US entry, transit and exit requirements. Whether you're travelling on a visa or under the Visa Waiver Program, ensure you understand all relevant terms and conditions before attempting to enter the United States."
And note, additionally, from May 7, "you will require a passport or United States-issued photo identification which meets the US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) REAL ID requirements to board domestic flights in the United States".
