It's Official! Australia Reopens Its Borders on 21 February

After being closed for almost two years, Australia's borders will finally reopen. It was officially announced today that from 21 February the international border will reopen to those who are double-vaccinated.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the new border rules would take effect on 21 February in line with new medical advice. He said: "The condition is that you have to be double-vaccinated to come to Australia. That's the rule, so everyone has to comply with it."

Under the current border restrictions, only Australian citizens and permanent residents and their family members, along with holders of specific visas and those who have applied for an exemption, are allowed to enter. From 21 February, Australia will open to all fully vaccinated visa holders.

Australia's Minister for Home Affairs, Karen Andrews, said unvaccinated travellers would still need to apply for a travel exemption to come to Australia, and if they are permitted to enter, they must undergo hotel quarantine.