Australia's international border is edging closer to reopening

Australia's international border is edging closer to reopening, and in a matter of weeks Australian citizens and permanent residents will be able to realise the dream of reuniting with overseas family and friends. But temporary residents have longer to wait - with some weighing-up whether to book tentative flights for themselves or loved ones.

Australia's international border will reopen in November. Source: AAP

Australia's international border will reopen in November, with Australian citizens and permanent residents able to exit and re-enter the country.

It's a different story for temporary migrants and non-citizens though.

As a general rule, Australia's 1-point-6 million temporary visa holders will continue to be barred from returning to Australia if they leave - unless they secure an exemption.

For temporary migrant Emma Reed it's a blow.

Ms Reed moved to Australia from Britain two and a half years ago on a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, with her husband and two sons.

The 39-year old was visited by her mum twice before the COVID-19 pandemic hit and longs to visit family in the UK.

Emma Reed with her mother and stepfather during their last visit to Australia. Source: Emma Reed

Australian citizens and permanent residents will be able to fly into and out of the country under Phase C of the National Plan to reopen Australia.

The eased restrictions will not apply to temporary visa holders or non-citizens.

Temporary visa holders, tourists and other non-citizens will have to wait until Phase D of the National Plan to be able to enter the country.

And there's no firm timeline for when Phase D will begin.

 

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