Latest Travel Updates - information for UQ travellers
15 August 2025 - European Entry/Exit System (EES)
From 12 October, the European Union (EU) will begin rolling out its new European Entry/Exit System (EES) for all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen area. Full implementation is expected by 10 April 2026.
EES registration will replace manual passport stamping with digital registration of biometric data (fingerprints, photo) and responses to border questions. Initial registration may take a few minutes and could lead to longer border queues.
Once registered, repeat travellers within 3 years will only need to provide either a fingerprint or photo on entry and exit.
Important:
- Short stays for work and/or leisure are still limited to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Overstaying may result in penalties.
- Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice — check with embassy or consulate before travel.
More info:
24 June 2025 - Global impacts of Middle East conflict
Due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, delays and disruptions to international travel are likely. These may occur quickly and without notice.
Staff and students who have booked or are planning international travel associated with UQ work or study are encouraged to stay informed and follow the advice of Smartraveller, regardless of their location or destination.
Travellers are also advised to remain vigilant when travelling internationally, regardless of their destination or transit points.
Travellers are advised to:
- Refer to Smartraveller for specific country advice and subscribe to Smartraveller updates.
- Ensure travel details are registered with International SOS.
- Download the International SOS (ISOS) mobile app to receive updates and alerts.
Changing or cancelling international travel and travel insurance
Travellers with confirmed bookings should continue to monitor the situation and investigate options for changing or cancelling their travel arrangements.
If existing and approved UQ travel bookings are altered or cancelled due to global events, travellers are advised that:
- A refund or credit should be sought from travel providers (travel agent, airline accommodation provider or other transport services).
- If a full refund is not available, you may be eligible to submit a claim through UQ Insurance Services.
- Travellers will be required to demonstrate that it was necessary to alter or cancel their journey, and that any additional expenses were reasonable. Cover will therefore depend on the date of travel, the date of alteration/cancellation, and the situation at the time of making that change.
- All claims will be assessed by UQ’s travel insurer on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with the policy’s terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions.
Travel bookings and insurance contacts
- UQ travellers with confirmed travel through FCM Travel Solutions should contact them directly for assistance with changing travel plans.
- For bookings not made by FCM Travel Solutions, contact the travel provider(s).
- For more information regarding UQ’s travel insurance, please contact UQ Insurance Services.
Emergency contacts
UQ has 24/7 emergency support for UQ travellers provided by International SOS:
- Phone: +61 2 9372 2468 (reverse charge available).
- Email: sydney@interntionalsos.com (if no access to phone services). Quote UQ membership number: 12AYCA778031.