If you're an international student from Nepal planning to study in Australia, congratulations on taking this exciting step in your academic journey! However, travelling to a new country can be overwhelming, especially when navigating airports and immigration procedures.

This guide gives a detailed guide to assist you in effectively navigating the arrival process and avoiding any complications. We will go through the main actions and procedures you must know while arriving at an airport in Australia, from check-in to baggage claim.

We realise how exciting and terrifying it may be to arrive in a new country, so we've produced this guide for foreign students arriving in Australia from Nepal.

This guide will assist in alleviating any concerns or worries about arrival at an Australian airport and make your travel as easy and stress-free as possible.

Check-in

International students arriving in Australia from Nepal must follow some steps to check in for their flight. Here are some tips to make your check-in process smooth and hassle-free.

• Arrive at the airport at least three hours before your departure time. This will give you enough time to complete the security and immigration procedures.
• Check-in online. This will save you time and allow you to select your seat ahead of time. Most airlines' websites or apps allow you to check in online for 24 hours before your trip. You will need your booking reference number and passport information to do so.
• Print or download your boarding pass and any other documents you need for your flight. 
• Pack your luggage according to the airline's baggage allowance and weight limit. You may have to pay extra fees if your luggage exceeds these limits. Ensure you do not pack any prohibited items or liquids over 100 ml in your carry-on baggage.
• Once you arrive at the airport, go to your airline's check-in counter and present your boarding pass, passport, and any other documents you need. You may also have to scan your fingerprints and take a photo at the self-service kiosk. The staff will then tag your luggage and give you a receipt.

Security and immigration

You will also need to undergo security screening, where your luggage and personal belongings will be checked for prohibited or restricted items. These include weapons, drugs, explosives, food, plants, animals, and cash over AUD 10,000. You can find a list of prohibited and restricted items here: 

You must follow the rules and regulations of the security and immigration procedures. Any breach or violation may result in fines, penalties, confiscation of items, or even cancellation of your visa. You should also be honest and cooperative with the officers and answer any questions they may have.

To help you navigate the security and immigration process smoothly, here are some tips:

• Pack your luggage carefully and label it clearly with your name and contact details
• Do not pack any prohibited or restricted items in your luggage or carry-on bags
• Keep your passport, visa grant letter, CoE, and IPC handy and accessible
• Arrive at the airport early and allow enough time for security and immigration checks
• Follow the instructions and signs at the airport
• If you are unsure about anything, ask for help from the airport staff or the officers

Boarding

Boarding is the final step before you take off for your international flight to Australia. It is important to board on time and follows the airline's instructions to avoid delays and ensure safety.

Here are some tips for a smooth boarding process:

• Check your boarding pass and gate number carefully. Some airports may have multiple terminals or gates for different flights.
• Arrive at the gate at least 30 minutes before departure. You may need additional security checks or passport control before boarding.
• Listen to the announcements and follow the signs for your boarding group. Some airlines may board by rows, zones, or priority status. Only board once your group is called.
• Have your boarding pass and passport ready to show to the gate agent. You may also need to scan your boarding pass at the gate or jet bridge.
• Find your seat and store your carry-on luggage in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Only block the aisle or take up more space than you need.
• Sit down and fasten your seat belt. Please turn off your electronic devices or switch them to aeroplane mode. Follow the instructions of the flight attendants and enjoy your flight!

In-flight

Flying from Nepal to Australia can be a long and tiring journey, but there are some ways to make it more comfortable and stress-free. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your flight:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during the flight, as the air in the cabin can be dry and dehydrating. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, disrupting your sleep and making you feel more jet-lagged.
• Move around: Sitting for long periods can cause stiffness, swelling, and blood clots in your legs. Try to get up and walk around the cabin every hour or so or stretch in your seat. You can also wear compression socks or stockings to improve your blood circulation.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Choose loose-fitting, breathable, and layered clothing that can adapt to the changing temperatures in the cabin and at your destination. Consider bringing a scarf, a blanket, or a pillow to keep you warm and cosy.
• Enjoy the entertainment: Most flights from Nepal to Australia offer various entertainment options, such as movies, music, games, and magazines. You can also bring your devices and headphones or read a book or a travel guide. This can help you pass the time and relax during the flight.

Arrival

You have finally reached your destination after a long flight. But before you can start your new life as an international student, you need to go through some procedures at the airport. Here is what you need to know and do:

In addition to your passport and visa, you must fill out an incoming passenger card and show it to the immigration officer. The card will request basic information about you and your travel history. You must also disclose any commodities brought into the nation, such as food, plants, animals, medications, or cash worth more than AUD 10,000. If you need help deciding what to declare, ask the officer or look at the signage at the airport.

The airport also provides various services to international students from Nepal to make their arrival smoother and more comfortable. Airport terminals provide free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs, luggage storage, bathrooms, prayer rooms, and other amenities. You can also find friendly professionals and volunteers to aid you with any queries or difficulties. They can communicate in a variety of languages, including Nepali.

Baggage Claim

After you have cleared immigration and customs, you will need to collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area. This is where you will find the conveyor belts that deliver the luggage from the plane to the terminal. Here are some steps to follow for a smooth baggage claim process:

• Look for the screens that display the flight numbers and the corresponding baggage carousel numbers. Find your flight number and go to the designated carousel.
• Wait for your luggage to arrive on the carousel. Depending on how many passengers are on your flight and how busy the airport is, it may take some time.
• Check the luggage tags carefully before you take your luggage. Make sure the tags match your name, destination and flight number. Take someone else's luggage by mistake or leave your luggage unattended.
• If you have more than one piece of luggage, use a trolley to transport them. You can find trolleys near the baggage claim area or at the exit. Some airports may charge a trolley fee, so have some coins ready if needed.
• If you cannot find your luggage or it is damaged, report it to the baggage service desk or the airline staff as soon as possible. They will help you locate your luggage or file a compensation claim.
• After collecting your luggage, exit the baggage claim area and proceed to the arrivals hall. Look for signs that direct you to public transport, taxis or shuttle buses.