Sydney Airport Launches Digital Incoming Passenger Card Trial to Simplify Arrivals
Digital Incoming Passenger Card Trial Begins for Qantas Passengers
Sydney Airport now supports a digital incoming passenger card trial, making arrivals smoother for Qantas travellers from Auckland and Queenstown. Passengers on Qantas flights QF144 and QF122 can complete their arrival declarations digitally via the Qantas app before they even board.
This trial replaces paper forms and speeds up border processing, improving efficiency at Australia’s busiest international gateway, Sydney Airport.
Government and Industry Collaborate on Seamless Travel
Australian Border Force (ABF), Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), and Qantas jointly lead the pilot program to modernise arrivals. ABF Commissioner Gav Reynolds highlights that this initiative advances Australia’s goal for efficient, modernised, and seamless travel and trade systems.
The program follows successful Brisbane trials and now expands to Sydney as the second international gateway to test the digital card.
How the Digital Card Works for Passengers
Travellers fill out the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) within the Qantas app anytime from three days before their flight, even onboard if Wi-Fi is available. After submission, passengers receive a digital pass with a QR code via the app and email, which they show to border and biosecurity officers on arrival.
Eligible passengers skipping paper cards will experience faster processing, while paper forms remain available as a manual alternative if preferred.
Upgrades at Sydney Airport Support Faster Processing
Sydney Airport recently installed eight new ABF SmartGate kiosks, increasing passenger processing by 640 travelers per hour at Terminal 1. By early 2026, 32 additional SmartGate kiosks will double total capacity, speeding up arrivals and freeing officers to assist passengers needing extra help.
These infrastructure improvements complement the digital card trial and aim to reduce congestion and waiting times at the border.
Background: Australia’s Long Road to Digital Arrival Cards
Australia first attempted digital arrival cards in 2016 as part of the ‘seamless traveller’ initiative, but digital rollouts have faced challenges. A costly $60 million Digital Passenger Declaration app launched in 2022 but was withdrawn after five months due to poor usability and functionality.
This trial represents the third government attempt to modernise incoming passenger declarations, now using airline apps to streamline implementation.
Looking Ahead: Government-Run Digital Arrival Card in Development
The ABF plans to create a standalone government website and app for the Australia Travel Declaration, providing a universal digital arrivals platform. Meanwhile, integration with airline apps like Qantas’ helps accelerate adoption and improves user experience for international travelers today.
This step marks important progress towards fully digitized border processing and modern, passenger-friendly travel to Australia.