The Australia arrival card, officially known as the Incoming Passenger Card (IPC), is a mandatory declaration for all international travellers visiting the country. But now, the authorities have decided to replace these paper cards with a new digital system. Keep reading to know what is expected to change.
Why Is Australia Replacing Its Paper Arrival Card With A Digital System?
Australia is all set to replace its long-standing paper arrival card with an all-new digital declaration system. According to The Economic Times, this move is part of a border modernisation programme aimed at speeding up passenger processing, enhancing security checks and reducing paperwork at the country’s entry points.
For the unversed, every international traveller has to complete an orange paper arrival card before landing in Australia. But not anymore. Instead of filling out a paper form during their flight, eligible travellers will be able to submit their arrival declaration online before reaching Australia. This sounds super easy and convenient, right?
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How Will The New Digital Declaration System Work?
According to The Economic Times, the Australian Travel Declaration will initially be available through a web-based form. However, the authorities are planning to integrate it into travel apps in the future. Notably, the nationwide rollout has begun after a successful trial involving 450,000 passengers travelling on Qantas international flights.
This new digital declaration system will be expanded across all international airports and seaports over the next 12 to 18 months. Reportedly, this decision has been taken to allow travellers to complete their declaration before arriving, reduce manual paperwork at airports and speed up arrival processing. Moreover, it will also help officials receive passenger information in advance, improving the detection of security and biosecurity risks.
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What do you think of this new change for international travellers visiting Australia? Do you think a new digital system can help make things smoother at the entry points?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Gagliardi Photography and Pixelshot (Representative Image)
FAQs
What is Australia’s Incoming Passenger Card?
Australia’s Incoming Passenger Card is a mandatory declaration that international travellers must complete before entering Australia.