When planning a holiday in Tasmania, it is important to have clear in your mind what you need. These include any necessary documents for international travel.
One common question involves whether there is a separate visa for Tasmania, or if it is possible to visit the island with a normal Australia visa.
Get all the information and advice to travel to Tasmania in this thorough guide for international visitors. Readers will learn about:
- Documents needed to visit Tasmania
- Tasmania’s visa requirements
- How to get to Tasmania and explore the island
- When to travel to Tasmania
Tasmania document requirements for foreign visitors
When visiting Tasmania, foreign nationals will need the following items:
- Visa
- Passport
- Driving license and international driving permit (if you intend to drive during your stay)
- Accommodation booking confirmation
- Tickets or booking references for any activities planned
- Insurance (if applicable)
- Proof of onward travel (if applicable)
When arriving from abroad, many travellers will only need to show their passport and visa.
Do I need a visa for Tasmania?
The vast majority of foreign nationals need a visa in order to enter Australia and, therefore, Tasmania. The type of visa required for Tasmania depends on your nationality.
For eligible tourists, the fastest and easiest option is an online visa like the eVisitor visa and the ETA. The application takes only a few minutes to complete and can be submitted online from anywhere in the world.
You must bring the passport you used during the application along with the visa.
New Zealanders may travel to Tasmania without a visa and be issued with one on arrival, as per the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement.
Is there a visa specifically for Tasmania?
If you are visiting Tasmania on holiday, for a business trip, or for certain other activities, you can use the general Australian short-stay visas.
For most travelers, these will be the eVisitor or ETA for Tasmania, which can be obtained online
To stay in Tasmania long-term, you would need to inquire about a Tasmanian permanent residence visa at an Australian Embassy.
How to get to Tasmania
Tasmania is an island territory, meaning that it can only be reached by plane or ferry. The main airport in the state is Hobart Airport (HBA.) There have been no scheduled international flights since 1998, but the airport maintains customs and immigration facilities.
HBA serves about 2 million passengers per year. Most flights to Hobart Airport depart from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. Other direct domestic flights to Tasmania land in Launceston, Wynyard (Burnie), Devonport, King and Flinders Island.
Some travellers decide to get to Tasmania from Melbourne by sea. This can be a good alternative - especially for those who are not on a tight schedule and wish to take their car with them.
Best time to go to Tasmania
Visitors should keep in mind that Tasmania is located in the Southern hemisphere, meaning that summer runs between December and February. This is also considered peak season, so prices may be higher and it is advisable to book well in advance.
The Tasmanian winter starts in July and it is the best time to see the snow and practice winter sports. However, temperatures can be quite rigid.
Spring and summer are a better choice for beach activities and bushwalking.
What is the best way to travel around Tasmania?
The most convenient way to get around Tasmania is by car. Many international visitors decide to hire a vehicle and explore the island’s beauties at their own pace.
Although driving in Australia means for many having to get their translated into English and/or getting used to driving on the left, this can still be the easiest and most fun way to move, especially with the family or a travel buddy.
Tasmania safety advice for tourists from overseas
Tasmania and Australia in general are considered very safe destinations for tourists. Australians are very friendly and welcoming people, happy to greet and help visitors should the need arise. Do not hesitate to ask for directions or assistance.
Tasmania and Hobart experience even lower crime rates than the national average according to 2017-2018 national crime statistics. However, travellers should be aware of petty crimes and the risks associated with spending time in the wilderness in an area one is not familiar with.
General safety advice for Tasmania includes:
- Keeping your belongings close
- Avoiding carrying expensive items, especially in crowded places
- Always having plenty of water and food with you when hiking and driving
- Considering hiring a local guide for explorations
- Telling someone about your plans if taking part in a multi-day trek
- Swimming in patrolled beaches only
Is Tasmania expensive to travel to?
Compared to the price of a trip to Australia, a Tasmanian holiday can be relatively inexpensive. Visitors can expect to spend about AUD $150 per day, although it is possible to spend much more or less depending on one’s choices on accommodation.
Booking well in advance and avoiding peak season will noticeably help travellers on a tight budget.
