Emotional reunions unfolded as the overseas flights arrived at Kingsford Smith Airport before dawn on Monday.

Travellers emerged from the airport gates to run into the arms of their loved ones and embrace family members who had been eagerly waiting for them.

It marks the first time in a gruelling 590 days that some families have been reunited after international borders were closed in March 2020.

Under the change to international travel, fully vaccinated passengers won’t have to quarantine in a hotel or at home, paving the way for Australians stranded overseas to be able to come home for Christmas.