Australian Passport

How to Apply for an Australian Passport

An Australian passport is an essential document for international travel and one of the primary proofs of Australian citizenship. Whether you are applying for your first passport, renewing an expired one, or applying for a child, Australia has a structured and well-regulated application process.

This guide explains who can apply, which form to use, and how to apply step by step.

1. Who Can Apply for an Australian Passport?

You can apply for an Australian passport if you are:

  • An Australian citizen by birth, or
  • An Australian citizen by descent, or
  • A naturalised Australian citizen

Permanent residents are not eligible for an Australian passport unless and until they become Australian citizens.

2. Types of Australian Passport Applications

Adult Passport (18 years and over)

  • Valid for 10 years

Child Passport (under 18)

  • Valid for 5 years
  • Requires consent from all persons with parental responsibility

Renewal vs New Application

You may be eligible for a renewal if your previous passport:

  • Was issued when you were 16 or older
  • Was valid for at least 2 years
  • Was issued in your current name

All other cases require a new application.

3. Which Form Do You Need?

  • PC7 – New adult passport or replacement passport
  • PC8 – Renewal of an adult passport
  • PC9 – Child passport application

Forms are completed online and then printed for lodgement.

4. Documents Required

Proof of Citizenship

One of the following:

  • Australian birth certificate (with evidence of citizenship, if applicable)
  • Australian citizenship certificate

Proof of Identity

  • Valid photo ID (e.g. driver licence)
  • Supporting identity documents showing use of name

Passport Photos

  • Two identical colour photos
  • Must meet strict Australian passport photo standards
  • Taken within the last 6 months

Incorrect photos are a common cause of delay.

5. How to Apply Step by Step (Inside Australia)

Step 1: Complete the Application Online

Applications are completed through the Australian Passport Office website, administered by Australian Passport Office under the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

You will:

  • Complete the online form
  • Print the application checklist and form

Step 2: Get Your Documents and Photos Ready

Ensure all documents are original and meet current requirements.

Step 3: Lodge the Application in Person

Most applications are lodged at Australia Post.

At lodgement you will:

  • Present your documents
  • Have your identity verified
  • Submit your photos
  • Pay the passport fee

Children must attend in person unless an exemption applies.

Step 4: Processing and Issue

Standard processing times apply once lodged. Priority processing is available for an additional fee.

Your passport is delivered securely by mail once approved.

6. Applying from Outside Australia

If you are overseas, you apply through:

  • An Australian embassy, high commission, or consulate

Processing times may be longer overseas, and local appointment availability varies.

7. Child Passport Applications

For applicants under 18:

  • Consent is required from all persons with parental responsibility
  • Additional documents may be required in cases of:
    • Separation or divorce
    • Court orders
    • Sole parental responsibility

Child passport applications are assessed carefully to prevent international child abduction.

8. Name Changes and Special Cases

You may need extra documentation if:

  • Your name has changed through marriage or deed poll
  • Your passport was lost or stolen
  • You are replacing a damaged passport

Lost or stolen passports must be reported immediately.

9. Common Reasons for Delay

  • Incorrect or incomplete forms
  • Non-compliant passport photos
  • Missing citizenship evidence
  • Inconsistent identity documents
  • Incomplete parental consent for child applications

Careful preparation helps avoid delays.

10. Important Tips

  • Do not book international travel until your passport is issued
  • Use priority processing if travel is urgent
  • Keep copies of all documents
  • Check photo requirements carefully before submission

Applying for an Australian passport is a formal, identity-focused process, but it is straightforward if you follow the correct steps and prepare your documents carefully. Whether applying for the first time, renewing, or applying for a child, early preparation is the key to a smooth application.