You need a visa for Heard Island and McDonald Islands if you have an American passport

These visas exist for Heard Island and McDonald Islands, but they cannot be applied for online with American nationality. Tell us about your trip and we will come back with the options and a price.

Travelling to Heard Island and McDonald Islands

Visa required

Frequently asked questions

Do American citizens need a visa for Heard Island and McDonald Islands?

Yes. American citizens need a visa for Heard Island and McDonald Islands. It is not available online — the application goes through an embassy or consulate.

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What Heard Island and McDonald Islands may ask for

Not every traveller is asked for all of these. A valid passport is checked every time; the rest is a spot check at the border, and some items belong to a visa application rather than the crossing itself.

Valid passport with 12+ months validity
Approved permit from Australian Antarctic Division
Comprehensive expedition and medical insurance
Strict biosecurity compliance documentation
Valid Australian visa for transit
Proof of expedition funding and support

A look at Heard Island and McDonald Islands

Heard Island glaciers — Approximately 80% of the island is covered by glacial ice
Heard Island wildlife — Home to millions of seabirds and marine mammals
Big Ben (Mawson Peak) — Australia's only active volcano at 2,745 meters
Heard Island coastline — Remote shores at the edge of the habitable world