Australia entry requirements for travellers from Papua New Guinea
Do Papua New Guinean citizens need a visa for Australia?
Yes. Papua New Guinea passport holders must hold a visa before travelling. PNG is not on the Electronic Travel Authority list and is not covered by the eVisitor, so visits are made on a Visitor visa (subclass 600), tourist stream or business visitor stream.
Two things specific to PNG travellers are worth checking before you apply. The Department of Home Affairs has flagged changed visa arrangements for Papua New Guinean passport holders from 1 July 2026, and from the same date a lower visitor visa cost applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. Confirm both on the department’s website before paying, since the detail decides what you lodge and what it costs.
How long can you stay in Australia?
The tourist stream can be granted for three, six or twelve months, at the department’s discretion. The business visitor stream allows stays of up to three months.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for the whole of your stay. Australia does not require six months of validity beyond your departure date, though airlines may apply their own rule. Tell the department if your passport is renewed after the visa is granted.
Proof of funds
You must show that you can support yourself for the visit and pay for your return travel. There is no published minimum. Bank statements covering several months, salary evidence and proof of employment or business ownership all help.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return ticket is not required to apply. Your application should still show your intended dates and what will bring you home.
Applying for your Australian visa
Apply online through ImmiAccount from outside Australia. Applicants who have previously held a visitor visa may be able to use the streamlined apply again option in ImmiAccount, which appears against your earlier finalised application if you are eligible.
Biometrics are required at an Australian Biometric Collection Centre. Collection is available in Port Moresby and, on limited days, in Lae, and appointments are booked in advance through the service provider. Processing does not continue until your biometrics are received, so book as soon as you are asked.
Health requirements
A health examination may be requested, particularly for stays over six months, for anyone who will spend time in healthcare settings or with children, and where tuberculosis screening is indicated. The department will issue referral letters if one is needed.
A yellow fever certificate is required only if you have been in a declared yellow fever risk country in the six days before arrival.
Other entry requirements
Complete the Incoming Passenger Card on the flight. Australian biosecurity is strict, particularly on the Torres Strait and northern routes, and items most often seized include fresh fruit and vegetables, betel nut, seeds, plant material, and items made from animal products or feathers. Declare all of it.
Cash of AUD10,000 or more, or the kina equivalent, must be declared.
Frequently asked questions
What is the streamlined apply again option?
It is a shorter online application available to eligible visitor visa applicants who have previously held one. If you qualify, the option appears in ImmiAccount against your last finalised visitor visa application.
Where can I give my biometrics?
At an Australian Biometric Collection Centre. Services operate in Port Moresby, with limited days in Lae. Appointments must be booked in advance.
Is the visa cheaper for Pacific Island citizens?
From 1 July 2026 a lower visitor visa cost applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. Use the Visa Pricing Estimator to confirm your fee before applying.
Can I work on a visitor visa?
No. Business visitor activities such as meetings and conferences are allowed, but paid work is not. Labour mobility schemes are separate visa categories.
Do children need their own visa?
Yes, including infants.
How far ahead should I apply?
At least two to three months, and longer if a health examination is likely or if you need to travel to give biometrics.