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Essential Travel Tips: Getting the Right Visa for Your Adventure

23 Oct 2024

Planning an international trip? Securing the right visa is one of the most crucial steps—it’s your key to entering, transiting through, or staying in a foreign country.

Before you jet off, ensure you have all the necessary visas in place, including transit visas if you’re passing through other countries. Many visas require you to apply while in Australia, so planning ahead is essential. Be thorough when completing your application and make sure to understand all visa conditions. 

Here are some of the main types of visas you may need:

  • Transit visas – For those brief stopovers while you’re en route to another destination.
  • Visitor or short-stay visas – Ideal for tourism, business trips, short-term study, or volunteering abroad.
  • Long-stay or immigrant visas – Necessary if you’re planning to live, work, or stay for an extended period in your chosen country.

Each country has its own visa requirements, and you’ll typically encounter one of these application processes:

  • Visa on Arrival – Some countries allow you to obtain your visa upon entry.
  • Online visa applications – A convenient way to apply before you travel.
  • Visa services – Commercial visa agencies can help streamline the process for you.
  • Visa-Free Entry – Some destinations allow Australians to travel visa-free for short stays, thanks to visa waiver agreements.

Here are four exciting recent changes:

  • China has added Australia to its visa waiver program as of 1 July 2024. Australian passport holders can now visit China without a visa for up to 15 days, whether for business, tourism, visiting family, or transiting through.
  • Japan offers Australians a visa exemption for up to 90 days for tourism or business. However, Japan is introducing a new travel authorisation system, which will soon require visitors to submit personal information online before entering the country.
  • Sri Lanka has reintroduced its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) visas for Australian passport holders. This ETA replaces the e-visa that was suspended in August 2024. It’s highly recommended that travellers obtain an ETA before departure, as boarding may be denied if it’s not granted beforehand.
  • The UK is rolling out its own Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. From 8 January 2025, Australians visiting the UK who don’t require a visa for short stays or lack other UK immigration status will need an ETA to enter or transit through the UK. The cost of applying for an ETA will depend on several factors, so it’s important to check the details before your trip.

Probus Partner Trade Travel is able to help you every step of the way! Whether you need advice on visa applications or support navigating the process, their team has you covered. Enjoy a stress-free experience with them and focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure​​.

Looking for your next adventure? Visit their website and let them take you on an unforgettable journey to make endless memories.