General Requirements

The Australian government announced the lifting of COVID-19 travel restrictions on June 23, 2022. The decision was made in response to the country's high vaccination rate and low case numbers. However, face masks are still mandatory in all indoor public spaces in Sydney, including Sydney Airport. Passengers are obligated to wear a face mask that covers their nose and mouth at all times.

Immigration Procedures

As of July 2023, the immigration procedures for international passengers arriving at Sydney Airport are as follows:

• Passport: Passengers must possess a valid passport that has been in effect for at least six months prior to their intended departure from Australia.
• Visa: Passengers might be required to obtain a visa in order to enter Australia. Please check the visa requirements specific to passengers country of citizenship on this website.
• Biometric information: Passengers may be requested to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial scan, upon their arrival in Australia.
• Customs declaration: Passengers are obligated to complete a customs declaration form upon entering Australia. This form is available online or at the airport.
• Carriage declaration: Passengers who are carrying more than AUD10,000 in cash or its equivalent must declare it to customs.
• Duty-free allowances: Passengers are permitted to bring certain goods into Australia without paying duty fees. 

Transit Requirements

The requirements for transit in Sydney Airport vary depending on the nationality and duration of the layover for passengers.

• For passengers from visa-exempt country with a layover of less than 8 hours, a transit visa is not required. However, it is necessary to possess a valid passport and visa for the final destination. Passengers will also need to undergo immigration and customs procedures, but luggage collection is not required.
• Passengers from visa-required countries or with layovers exceeding 8 hours must obtain a transit visa. The transit visa application can be completed online or at an Australian embassy or consulate. During the application process, passengers will be required to provide passport information, flight details, and visa information for the final destination.

Once a transit visa is obtained, passengers need to go through immigration and customs upon arrival in Sydney. It is also necessary to collect luggage and check in for the connecting flight.

Passengers who are not citizens of Australia or New Zealand must provide certain documents to immigration officers for clearance upon arrival. These documents include:

• A valid passport or an acceptable travel document.
• A valid visa or authorization to enter Australia, which may include electronic visas.
• A completed and signed Incoming Passenger card, which includes declarations related to health and character.

It is important to note that individuals who arrive without the necessary travel documents, visas, or authorizations may be denied entry to Australia or experience delays until their identity and eligibility to enter the country are verified.