Visa hoax alert: DIBP

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection is aware of a hoax news/blog site suggesting new visa-free arrangements are coming into effect for individuals intending to travel to Australia.

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection mentioned that the hoax stories, which have so far named Fiji, the Philippines, Oman and Pakistan, suggest that Australia has entered into visa agreements with visa-free travel commencing from January 2017.

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection said these stories are false and Australia maintains a universal non-discriminatory visa regime. There has been no change to Australia’s approach. All non-citizens seeking to enter and stay in Australia require a valid visa.

Travellers should continue to check the Department’s website, www.border.gov.au, for the latest information on visa requirements for Australia.