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New Visa and Entry Changes for Australians in 2025: Key Visa and Entry Updates

Planning your travels for 2025-2026? Significant visa and entry changes for Aussie travellers could impact your travel plans. Stay updated on key visa and entry changes for Europe, Bali, the US, and South Korea before you leave Australia.
New Visa and Entry Changes for Australians in 2025: Key Visa and Entry Updates

Travelling overseas in 2025 is a lot different for Australians than it was just a few years ago. Many countries are tightening border rules and moving to digital systems for visas and entry records including arrival cards and declaration forms. New visa and entry requirements for Australians could affect your international travel plans so it’s important to stay up to date with new visa changes to avoid delays, being denied entry, deportation, bans and potential fines. Whether you’re travelling to Europe, Bali, Indonesia, the US or South Korea, understanding new visa changes and entry requirements for Aussie travellers is essential to avoiding issues at the border.

Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs. As entry and visa requirements may change over time, it is your responsibility to verify entry and visa requirements with the official government authorities including the relevant embassy, consulate, or department of immigration of the country you plan to visit.

Europe Updates

Indonesia Updates

USA Updates

South Korea Updates

Common Types of Visas

Common types of visas include: 

  • Tourist visas: for leisure travel 
  • Business visas: for work trips and meetings 
  • Work visas: for temporary or long-term employment 
  • Student visas: for study programs 
  • Transit visas: for stopovers in certain countries 

Visa Conditions

Visas typically contain the following conditions: 

  • Length of stay or validity period: e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days 
  • Number of entries: single or multiple entry 
  • Purpose of visit: visas usually have approved travel purposes such as tourism, business, work (for some visas you must not engage in certain activities such as paid employment or study exceeding a certain course duration) 
  • Required documents: to apply for the visa you will often have to provide documents such as below and depending on the situation you might be asked to provide additional documents: 
    • a valid passport 
    • proof of funds to support yourself during your stay (such as bank statements) 
    • return or onward tickets (itinerary) 
    • documents related to your travel purpose (for example you would likely need an employment contract or letter of offer for a work visa, and an acceptance or enrolment letter from an educational institution for a student visa) 

How To Apply for a Visa 

There are a number of ways to apply for a visa including: 

  • Applying through an embassy or consulate: Applying for a relevant visa through the respective country’s embassy or consulate is a common application method, particularly for longer-term or specialised visas. 
  • Applying online for an electronic visa (e-visa): Many countries have implemented digital systems allowing visitors to apply for an e-visa online. 
  • Visas issued on arrival: Some countries provide visas on arrival meaning that eligible Australians receive authorisation at the border without having to apply online before arrival. 

Visa vs Electronic Travel Authorisation

Some countries offer visa exemptions, allowing Australian travellers to enter the country visa-free for a set period of time. In some cases, visa-exempt Australians may be required to apply for and obtain a valid Eletronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country.  

Many travellers mistake an ETA for a visa. While many travellers consider an ETA to be a faster, lighter version of a visa, an ETA is not a visa and does not replace the entry requirements needed for some visas. Instead, an ETA is a type of travel document that acts as a pre-screening or registration process for visa-exempt travellers. 

Here’s a brief comparison between visas and ETAs to help you understand the difference between visas and Electronic Travel Authorisations. 

Feature 

Visa 

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) 

What is it? 

Official authorisation that allows you to enter, stay, or transit in a country for a specific purpose and period. 

A digital online approval linked to your passport that allows you to board your flight and enter a country for short stays. 

Common Use 

Visas may be needed for longer stays, business, work, study or when a country does not allow visa-free entry. 

 Check with the embassy, consulate, or immigration department of the country you will be visiting. 

An ETA may be required for short-term travel (tourism, business, or transit) in countries where Australians don’t need a full visa but still require pre-travel authorisation. 

Check with the embassy, consulate, or immigration department of the country you will be visiting. 

Application  

Applications may need to be lodged through an embassy, consulate, or online portal for e-visas.

Visa applications often require more paperwork such as passport, photos, proof of funds, invitation letters, medical checks, etc.

Visas fees vary between countries and visa types and can be very expensive. 

ETA applications are usually a simple online form that can be completed on a website or through a mobile app. 

ETA applications usually require personal details, passport details, travel info and sometimes a small fee although they might be sometimes free of charge.

Processing Time 

Visa processing can range from days to months depending on the type and complexity of the visa.

ETA processing is usually instant or may take between a few hours to a few days.

Validity 

Visa validity varies between destinations and visa types. Visas can be valid for specific durations and for single or multiple entries.

ETA validity varies between destinations. An ETA is usually valid for multiple short trips over a ser period (i.e. 1-3 years).
Expand All

Key Visa & Entry Requirement Changes in 2025 

Here’s an overview of key visa changes for Australian travellers you should know in 2025. 

Europe: EU Entry/Exit System Begins Rolling Out 12 October 2025

Key Takeaways:

  • Starting 12 October 2025, the European Union will begin rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will replace manual passport stamping with biometric checks and data collection including fingerprints and facial image scans. This system will apply to foreign travellers, including Australians, entering, or leaving the 29 countries in the Schengen Area within Europe. 
  • The EES rollout will happen gradually over six months, with full implementation expected by 10 April 2026. Until then, not every border crossing will collect biometric data right away, and passports will continue to be stamped manually during the transition period.  
  • Australian travellers should be aware that refusing to provide biometric data will mean being denied entry into the territory of the European countries using the EES in the Schengen Area.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES) and what does it do?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated IT system that records the entry and exit of non-EU travellers, including Australians, each time they cross the external borders countries in the European countries using this system in the Schengen Area for short stays. 

The EES applies to Australians entering the European countries using this system in the Schengen Area whether you: 

  • possess a short-stay visa, or  
  • do not need a visa to stay for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period (visa-exempt travellers eligible for the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System).

 

The Entry/Exit System will collect, record, and store the following data:

  • Personal details from your passport (e.g. full name, date of birth) 
  • Date and place of each entry and exit 
  • Biometric data including fingerprints and captured facial images 
  • Whether you were refused entry 
  • Whether you have overstayed the period allowed in the Schengen Area 

Conditions for collecting and storing personal data in the EES are set out in Regulation (EU) 2017/2226, which establishes the EES. 

Read our guide on Europe and Schengen Entry and Visa Requirements to learn whether you need a Schengen visa or can enter the Schengen Area visa-free.

Which countries will be using the Entry/Exit System?

The 29 Schengen countries will be using the EES system. Below is a list of European countries in the Schengen Area.

  • Austria 
  • Belgium 
  • Bulgaria 
  • Croatia 
  • Czechia 
  • Denmark 
  • Estonia 
  • Finland 
  • France 
  • Germany 
  • Greece 
  • Hungary 
  • Iceland 
  • Italy 
  • Latvia 
  • Liechtenstein 
  • Lithuania 
  • Luxembourg 
  • Malta 
  • Netherlands 
  • Norway 
  • Poland 
  • Portugal 
  • Romania 
  • Slovakia 
  • Slovenia 
  • Spain 
  • Sweden 
  • Switzerland

What does the Entry/Exist System mean for Australians travelling to Europe?

From 12 October 2025, Australians visiting the 29 countries in the Schengen Area within Europe for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period) will have their entries and exits recorded electronically each time they cross an external border. This means that data collection will be gradually introduced at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026.

For Australian travellers, this means: 

  • Faster border checks, especially once the system is fully rolled out 
  • Stricter enforcement of the 90/180-day rule, with overstays in the Schengen Area more easily detected 
  • Refusing to provide biometric data could mean you may be denied entry into the European countries using this system in the 29 countries in the Schengen Area within Europe

Ready to Embark on your European Adventure?  

Explore the benefits and cover options available with Fast Cover’s travel insurance for your trip to Europe. 

Indonesia: Australians Travelling to Indonesia Required to Complete Online Arrival Card From 1 September 2025 

Key Takeaways:

  • From 1 September 2025, all travellers entering Indonesia, including Bali must complete the free digital arrival card online via the All Indonesia website, within 72 hours (3 days) of your travel to Indonesia.   
  • The All Indonesia arrival card replaces previously separate processes for the SATUSEHAT health declaration and, customs declarations. 
  • This new ‘All Indonesia’ Arrival Card entry requirement will apply to international airports in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali in Indonesia from 1 October 2025. 
  • From 1 September 2025, travellers visiting Indonesia for tourism, official government duties or business meetings will be able to apply for an electronic visa on arrival (e-VOA) through the All Indonesia Arrival Card Website or through Directorate General of Immigration e-Visa Website, after submitting All Indonesia Arrival Card online, at least 48 hours before travel to Indonesia.

How to Apply for an Indonesia Arrival Card

Follow the steps below to begin your arrival card application:

  1. Go to the All Indonesia website and select your preferred language (English, Indonesian or Chinese) 
  2. Select ‘Foreign Visitor’ to begin your arrival card application 
  3. Enter your Personal Information 
  4. Enter your Travel Details (entry and exit dates) 
  5. Enter Mode of Transportation & Address details 
  6. Fill out the Declaration 
    • The previous SATUSEHAT Health Pass (SSHP) International Health Declaration upon arrival must now be completed through All Indonesia website as part of the arrival card submission 
    • Fill out the Quarantine Declaration 
    • The previous Customs Declaration (BC2.2) upon arrival must now be completed through All Indonesia website as part of the arrival card submission 
  7. Submit your arrival card 

Travelers who have filled out the arrival card may look up and re-download proof of their submission.

What does the All Indonesia Arrival Card mean for Australian travellers?

For Australians heading to Indonesia, including Bali, the new All Indonesia arrival card brings all entry requirements into a single online process. From 1 September 2025, you’ll need to complete the free digital form on the All Indonesia website, within 72 hours (3 days) of your travel to Indonesia. 

This arrival card replaces separate entry requirements and processes like the SATUSEHAT health declaration and customs declaration, making entry simpler but also mandatory to complete online. From 1 October 2025, the arrival card requirement will apply at international airports in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali in Indonesia. 

In addition, travellers visiting for tourism, official duties, or business meetings can also apply for an electronic visa on arrival (e-VOA) through the same website, at least 48 hours before travel to Indonesia. 

For Australians, this means less hassle at the airport, but it’s important to get your Arrival Card sorted online before you fly to avoid delays or issues on arrival. 

Ready to Embark on your Balinese Adventure?  

Explore the benefits and cover options available with Fast Cover’s travel insurance for your trip to Bali.

USA: US Global Entry Program Phase Two Set to Open in Late 2025

Key Takeaways: 

  • The US Global Entry program allows pre-approved eligible travellers to enjoy faster immigration and customs clearance at major US airports. 
  • As of January 2025, eligible Australians had access to Phase One of the Global Entry program. Phase One is now closed, and Australia has paused application processing.  
  • Phase Two of the Global Entry Program for Australia is expected to open later in 2025, allowing eligible Australians to apply online through the CBP Trusted Traveller Program (TTP) once it becomes available.

What is the US Global Entry Program?

The Global Entry program is a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller Program (TTP) that allows faster immigration and customs clearance for eligible Australians who have been pre-approved when entering the United States. The program is available at major US airports and reduces paperwork and processing times. The Global Entry program is valid for 5 years for approved members.

Eligibility Criteria for Australians

Australians must meet the following eligibility criteria to enrol in the Global Entry program:   

  • Be 18 years of age or older (minors require a parent or legal guardian's consent), and   
  • Be a citizen or lawful permanent resident of Australia.  

Applications for the US Global Entry Program

Phase One: As of January 2025, eligible Australians had access to Phase One of the US Global Entry program. Phase One is now closed, and Australia has paused application processing.

Phase Two: Phase Two of the Global Entry Program for Australia is expected to open later in 2025. Once applications open for Phase Two, Australian citizens will be able to apply for the Global Entry program online through the CBPs Trusted Traveller Program. The online application process for Australians involves background checks by CBP and Australian governmental authorities.

What does the US Global Entry Program mean for Australians?

The US Global Entry program allows pre-approved Australians to skip regular immigration and customs lines at major US airports, making entry faster and reducing paperwork. Membership is valid for 5 years and provides a smoother, more efficient travel experience for frequent visitors to the United States. 

Read our guide on US Visa and Entry Requirements to learn more about the US Global Entry Program and how to apply when Phase Two applications open. 

US Clear+ Program

The US Clear+ program is now open to Australian travellers at a cost of US$209 (or approximately AUD $314) per year. Clear+ is a privately-run adjunct to the US government’s TSA PreCheck, with dedicated lanes at 59 airports across the USA. CLEAR+ is a paid airport Membership that allows members to speed through airport security nationwide in our designated CLEAR+ Lanes at TSA checkpoints. Check the Clear website to find locations and airports where you can use the Clear+ Program. Those lanes, which reply on biometrics to confirm your identity, let you move straight through to security screening.  

Visit the Clear website for more information on how to apply. 

South Korea: K-ETA Exemption for Australians Set to End on 31 December 2025

Key Takeaways: 

  • Australians are currently exempt from requiring a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) until 31 December 2025.  
  • When the temporary K-ETA exemption ends on 31 December 2025, Australians will be required to apply for the K-ETA online unless the temporary extension is further extended.   
  • While Australian travellers are currently exempt from submitting a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) until 31 December 2025 (KST), they still need to submit an e-Arrival Card as these are two different systems.

What is the Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA)?

The Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) is an electronic travel authorisation system implemented by the South Korean government for nationals of visa-exempt countries. The K-ETA allows visa-exempt visitors to enter South Korea for tourism, business meetings, visiting relatives, or other short-term purposes.   

Once approved, a K-ETA is generally valid for multiple entries over a three-year period (if the passport expiration date is shorter than 3 years, valid until the passport expiration date), with each stay limited to 90 days. While the K-ETA validity period is 3 years, travellers cannot stay longer than the visa-free stay period (for a single entry) applicable to their country. 

Australians are currently exempt from requiring a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) until 31st December 2025. This means Australians can enter South Korea for up to 90 days (the standard visa exemption period) without applying for a K-ETA until 31st December 2025. 

What does the K-ETA exemption ending mean for Australians?

The current K-ETA exemption allows Australians to enter South Korea for up to 90 days without applying for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation. Once this exemption ends on 31 December 2025, Australians will be required to apply for a K-ETA online before travelling, unless the exemption is extended. When the K-ETA requirement resumes for Australian travellers, K-ETA applications can be completed via the official K-ETA website. 

Read our guide on South Korea Visa and Entry Requirements to learn how to apply for the K-ETA, how to apply for an e-Arrival Card and other entry requirements before travelling to South Korea

Practical Tips for Australian Travellers Navigating Visa Changes 

Understanding new visa changes and updates for Aussies travelling overseas helps to ensure smoother travel and fewer surprises at the border. Whether you’re planning a European adventure, a quick Bali escape, a road trip in the US or exploring South Korea, staying updated on visa and entry requirements for Australians could be just as important as booking your flights

Follow our practical tips to help you navigate visa changes: 

Check official information sources

Check official information sources

Always confirm details on government sources such as Smartraveller and your destination’s embassy, consulate or department of immigration. It is important to note that your travel insurance policy may not provide cover if you do not comply with a countries visa or other entry requirements. To help ensure you are prepared for your trip, you should research and understand the relevant entry conditions before you travel overseas.

Stay updated

Stay updated

Subscribe to Fast Cover’s newsletter to stay up to date on new visa requirements for Australian citizens as additional source of information 

Apply early

Apply early

Processing times can vary so make sure to apply for visas, arrival cards and electronic travel authorisations on time to avoid any delays and potential issues at the border.

Keep backups of your travel documents

Keep backups of your travel documents

Just like you would keep a copy of your travel insurance policy, make sure to keep both printed and digital copies of your visa approvals, ETAs and arrival cards. Some countries will issue QR codes that you will need to show at the border upon arrival so make sure to take a screenshot and print a hard copy.

FAQs about Navigating Visa Changes for Australians


Yes, Australian citizens are eligible for the US Global Entry program. However Phase One of the program has currently closed and application processing has paused. Phase Two of the Global Entry program is expected to roll out in late 2025 in Australia. The program allows faster immigration and customs clearance for eligible Australians who have been pre-approved when entering the United States.

Australians are currently exempt from requiring a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) until 31st December 2025. This means Australians can enter South Korea for up to 90 days (the standard visa exemption period) without applying for a K-ETA until 31st December 2025. When the temporary K-ETA exemption ends, Australians will be required to apply for the K-ETA online unless the temporary extension is further extended. 

As entry and visa requirements for South Korea may change, it is your responsibility to verify entry and visa requirements with official government sources such as the South Korean Embassy in Australia or your local South Korean Consulate.

Yes, K-ETA exempt individuals including Australian Citizens still need to submit an e-Arrival Card for travelling to South Korea. While Australian travellers are currently exempt from submitting a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) until 31st December 2025, they still need to submit an e-Arrival Card as these are two different systems. 

As entry and visa requirements for South Korea may change, it is your responsibility to verify entry and visa requirements with official government sources such as the South Korean Embassy in Australia or your local South Korean Consulate. 

 

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