How international students can get proof of vaccination in Australia

Australian universities are looking into vaccine mandates for its students. If you’re an international student who’s wondering how to get proof of vaccination in Australia, then this one’s for you. Here’s what government data tells us:

How to get proof of vaccination in Australia

For starters, international students in Australia can get the COVID-19 vaccine for free. The Department of Health notes: “COVID-19 vaccines are free for everyone in Australia, even if you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident. This includes people without a Medicare card, overseas visitors, international students, migrant workers and asylum seekers.”

Students can find a clinic where they can receive a vaccine using the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility checker. After answering some questions about your health, students will then be able to make a booking on the platform. Those who don’t have a Medicare card or are not eligible for Medicare can get their free vaccination at:  

• Commonwealth vaccinations clinics
• State or territory vaccination clinics
• Community pharmacies that are administering COVID-19 vaccines

How to get proof of your vaccination in Australia would depend on your situation. Source: William West/AFP

How to get proof of vaccination in Australia without a Medicare card

Ultimately, how to get proof of your vaccination in Australia would depend on your situation. International students in Australia are likely non-Medicare card holders, but the government notes that you can still get proof that you are vaccinated, even if you don’t have a Medicare card. 

If you’re not eligible for Medicare, you will need an Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI) to get your proof online. You can get an IHI using the Individual Healthcare Identifiers service (IHI service) through myGov. Click here for more details on how to get proof of vaccination in Australia.

Another way to get proof of vaccination in Australia without Medicare is via My Health Record. Their website provides information for those who are not eligible for Medicare or Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA) benefits. The steps include:

• Apply for an IHI, if you don’t already have one
• Register for a My Health Record once you have your IHI
• Link your My Health Record in myGov

If you can’t get proof online, your vaccination provider can print your immunisation history statement for you. Alternatively, you can call the Australian Immunisation Register to have an Immunisation History Statement sent to you by post. It can take up to 14 days.

It’s important to note that you don’t need an IHI to get the vaccines, you only need it to get proof of your vaccinations. Always visit the relevant government website for the latest details. For more information, call the COVID-19 vaccine helpline on 1800 020 080.