Australia Incoming Passenger Card (IPC)

Content updated, April 2023

PLEASE NOTE: As of June 2022, you no longer need an Australia Travel Declaration to enter the country. Per the Australian Government, all incoming passengers must instead fill out the Australia Incoming Passenger Card (and obtain a visa, if applicable).

Between the Indian and Pacific Oceans lies Australia, a country that inspires you from the moment you arrive. One of the most exciting places in Australia is the Whitsundays, a set of 74 islands of various shapes and sizes, where exploring the coral reefs is a true wonder. But before you go, you'll need to fill out the Australia Incoming Passenger Card (IPC).

At iVisa, we can help you obtain this travel document to visit Australia and explain all entry requirements for Australia, including the current COVID-19 regulations. Keep reading for more information.

What is the Australia Incoming Passenger Card (IPC)?

The Australian Incoming Passenger Card provides traveler identification and monitors any entry by any passenger into Australia. It must be completed by everyone, including residents of the country.

Since the Australia Travel Declaration has been removed as an entry requirement, the digital passenger declaration doubles as a health status check for non-Australian citizens and a special category fast visa application form for Norfolk Island Permanent Residents.

Who must fill out the Australia Incoming Passenger declaration?

The majority of passengers entering Australia are obliged to submit passenger cards, including international travelers or international students. Migration rules state that those who do not correctly fill out the IPC are subject to penalties. In addition to a fine, entry to Australia may be denied to non-Australian citizens.

The following passengers are required to submit an Australian Incoming Passenger Card:

• Visa holders

• Citizens and permanent residents of Australia

How long is the Australia Passenger Card valid for?

The Australia Incoming Passenger Card is valid for a single entry into Australia for the duration of your trip. A digital passenger declaration must be completed for each trip to Australia. All visitors must follow these rules.

Travel requirements and required documents for the Australia Incoming Passenger Card

You are required to present the completed card when you arrive at the airport in Australia. The following basic information must be filled out:

• Family name, given first names and passport number

• Flight number or the name of the (cruise)ship

• Address of your accommodation in Australia

• If you are planning to reside in Australia for the upcoming 12 months

• Any declarations relating to customs and quarantine

How to fill out the Australia Incoming Passenger Card online

You can fill out the IPC online by following the below simple steps. You can receive your document within 24 hours.

• Step 1: Click “apply now” on this page and fill out the application questionnaire with your basic data, passport number, airline, flight number, travel history, and emergency contact details. From there, select the processing option that suits you best.

• Step 2: Make sure all the information you have entered is correct. Continue to make the payment for the administration fee.

• Step 3: You must attach all requested documents (if applicable) and click "Submit" to finish the process.

Check your email inbox for the completed digital document. Please print this and bring it with you on your travels.

What are the costs and processing times of the Australia Incoming Passenger Card?

iVisa offers three alternatives to obtain your travel document. Prices vary based on your chosen option and needs:

• Standard Processing Time: For an affordable fee of USD $50.99, you’ll receive your travel document in 24 hours.

• Rush Processing Time: If you need your document urgently, choose this option for a fee of USD $68.99.

• Super Rush Processing Time: For an express fee of USD $100.99, you’ll receive your document in just 4 hours.

Do I need the Incoming Passenger Card to transit through Australia?

If you have to make a transit stop in Australia, you do not have to fill out the IPC, provided that you will not leave the international transit area. If you leave the transit area and enter Australia, the immigration services will ask you for your Incoming Passenger Card.

Do minors require an Australia Incoming Passenger Card?

Minors also require this travel document to enter Australia according to migration regulations. If you are traveling with a child under 16, the parents must fill out the document on their behalf.

Australia COVID-19 requirements or restrictions

The Australian government has recently eased regulation in relation to COVID-19. Here are all the details.

Australia Digital Passenger declaration

Visitors and residents no longer need to fill out the Australia Travel Declaration with information about their vaccination status. However, make sure to fill out the Australia Incoming Passenger card, which has more to do with customs than health status.

Since information may change quickly, we advise you to follow up on the latest Australia travel updates and/or contact your local embassy.

Do I need to take a COVID-19 test before traveling to Australia?

Australia no longer requires proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test or rapid antigen test to enter the country.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine passport or vaccination certificate to enter Australia?

COVID-19 vaccination passports or vaccination certificates are no longer mandatory to enter Australia. You can enter Australia, no matter what your vaccination status is.

Do I need to quarantine when I get to Australia?

You are no longer required to quarantine in a designated COVID-19 hotel or other accommodation upon entry to Australia.

I have more questions about my trip to Australia; who can I contact?

Suppose you have doubts or questions about traveling to Australia or the Australia Incoming Passenger Card. In that case, our expert customer service team will be happy to help you via online chat or you can contact us on WhatsApp. Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day to assist you.