2.3 International applicants
The AAD will consider providing logistic support to scientists of other nations particularly encouraging high quality collaborative proposals involving Australian researchers. Overseas applicants will be assessed in the same manner as those submitted by Australian researchers, and should be prepared and submitted in accordance with these guidelines.
Overseas research institutions and researchers are not eligible to receive Australian Antarctic Science grant funding.
International applicants are expected to cover their own costs, including travel to Australia, accommodation prior to departure and the cost of medical examinations. They should also ensure that they have adequate health insurance cover while in Australia, and comply with Australian visa requirements.
Information on visa requirements
Non-residents of Australia travelling to Antarctica/the subantarctic require a visa that allows for multiple entries to Australia. The initial entry, for immigration purposes, usually occurs when travelling to Australia to join the AAP; and an additional entry occurs on return to Australia from Antarctica/the subantarctic.
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship is responsible for processing visa applications and will determine the outcome on a case by case basis, notifying each applicant of the outcome. It is advisable that the visa period requested should allow for a delay of a minimum of a month in the potential return to Australia from Antarctica/the subantarctic, due to shipping delays that may occur owing to heavy ice conditions or other unforeseen difficulties.
Overseas-based, non Australian citizens require a letter of invitation in relation to their proposed visit. For field personnel, this letter can be obtained from their Australian CI. If the project retains a foreign CI the letter can be obtained from the Science Planning and Coordination Section, planning@aad.gov.au. The letter of invitation should outline the applicant’s intended activity, and also specify that no salary, scholarship or allowance will be paid to them by the sponsoring institution.
Australian residents who are not Australian citizens will require a valid passport and visa to enter Australia on their return from Antarctica/the subantarctic.
For further information, visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website or contact the department on the national phone inquiry line on 131 881. If overseas, information can be obtained from your nearest Australian diplomatic office.
