Photo credit: Australian Government
The Federal Government says Australians are another step closer to safe overseas travel with the introduction of the country’s International Covid-19 proof of vaccination.
From today (19 October), Australians and Australian visa holders who have a valid passport and their Covid-19 vaccination recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) can obtain an International Covid-19 proof of vaccination.
According to a statement released by the Government, this will enable fully vaccinated Australians to depart the country and to travel internationally, consistent with the National Plan to transition Australia’s Covid Response.
It can be downloaded digitally or printed, and is compatible with Covid-19 travel apps such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass.
“The international proof of vaccination features a secure QR code to prove Covid vaccination status to border authorities around the world and increases a person’s ability to travel safely and with confidence,” the statement said.
“The Visible Digital Seal technology within the international proof of vaccination is world-leading, it is as secure as an Australian passport, and authenticated in the same way.”
This international certificate meets the new global standard specified by the International Civil Aviation Organization and conforms with World Health Organization guidance.
According to the Federal Government, Australia will share the Visible Digital Seal technology, building a curated library of technical documents to assist interested countries develop their own vaccination certificates.
“The launch of the international proof of vaccination is a key step towards safely reopening international borders and supporting Australia’s Covid-19 economic recovery,” the statement said.
Requesting an international certificate is free. The easiest way to get your certificate is by using your Medicare account through myGov, or the Medicare Express app.
Meanwhile, a report by ABC News says that if you’ve been vaccinated overseas and are waiting to return home, you won’t be able to apply for an Australian international vaccine certificate.
“That’s because you can only have an international vaccination uploaded to the Australian Immunisation Register once you’re back in the country,” the ABC reported.
“The government is yet to say exactly how people vaccinated overseas who haven’t had the chance to do that can prove their status.”