IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Australia will introduce automated departure eGates at its eight international airports from mid-2015.

What does the change mean? The eGates will speed processing for travelers departing Australia.

  • Implementation timeframe: The automated departure gates will be rolled out beginning the middle of next year.
  • Visas/permits affected: All visas.
  • Who is affected: Australian citizens and foreign nationals departing Australian airports.
  • Business impact: The change aims primarily to enhance border security, but it will also benefit frequent travelers who will receive faster automated processing

Background: The eGate launch is part of Australia’s push for tighter border controls. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection recently launched a Strategic Border Command system consisting of five regional command centers to monitor border activity and deploy resources when needed. Australia also plans to expand the list of foreign nationals able to access its automated SmartGate entry processing to citizens of Canada, China, France, India, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia and others.

BAL Analysis: These changes are intended to streamline border procedures for legitimate travellers, while freeing up border staff to deal with security threats.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN: 9683856

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