AUSTRALIA is set to ease restrictions on foreigners entering the country, for certain groups by the 1st of December.
Skilled migrants and international students, as well as Japan and South Korean citizens, will be among those allowed entry, only if fully vaccinated.
Australia has implemented some of the world’s tightest border controls since March last year, including on its own citizens.
Under the relaxed rules, eligible visa holders will be allowed to return to Australia without needing a special exemption.
“Eligible visa holders include skilled workers and student cohorts, as well as refugees, humanitarians, temporary and provisional visa holders,” Minister for Home Affairs Karen Andrews said.
“They must return a negative Covid test in the three days before arriving,” she added.
Fully vaccinated South Koreans and Japanese who hold a valid visa will also be able to enter without undergoing quarantine.
The country has begun a phased re-opening since reaching vaccination targets.
More than 85% of Australian over-16s are now fully vaccinated.
BBC