Please click on each heading below to view the relevant questions.
Who can get an Australian passport?
Only Australian citizens can apply for and be issued with an Australian passport.
How long is a passport valid for?
The maximum validity of an ordinary Australian passport is:
10 years for an adult aged 18 years or older
10 years for a child aged 16 or 17 years
5 years for a child aged 15 years or younger
5 years (optional) or 10 years for an adult aged 75 or over
In some circumstances, you may be issued a passport with a shorter validity period. This will be discussed with you during the application process.
How many pages are in an Australian passport?
Australian passports have 34 visa pages.
There is no option to get more visa pages.
Does my Australian passport have an electronic chip?
Yes. All Australian passports issued after 2005 have an electronic chip.
Can I use immigration e-gates with my Australian passport?
Yes, you can use the e-gates when entering and leaving Australia if you meet the age requirements.
You can use the e-gates in another country only if you meet their requirements.
Is my passport waterproof?
No. You should store your passport in a way that protects it against water damage.
Can I write/draw on my passport?
No. Do not mark the photo page or visa pages on your passport.
There is a section on the last page for you to write your current address and emergency contact details. You should use a pencil so you can update the details when needed.
Can I print out a blank form online?
No. There is no option to download and print a blank form.
How do I download the application form?
Visit the Australian Passport Office website, then select Application Portal and create an account.
Answer the questions to tell the system that you are applying for a passport overseas. You will be directed to complete the correct form.
When you have completed the form online you can download it and print it out.
I am having problems with the online system, can you send me a form?
Yes. Please contact us so we can ensure we send you the right form. If you are renewing your passport then we may need to ask you some personal questions for security, so please have your old passport with you when you call.
Can you reset my password for the online system?
No. We cannot provide IT support from outside Australia.
Please try creating an account with a different email address. Alternatively, you can contact us and we can send you the form you need.
How do I know I have the right form?
Please return to the Home Page and follow the instructions for the type of application you are submitting. The instructions will state which form is required.
Who is a "renewal application" for?
Adults who are renewing their passport, have previously held an adult passport, and there are no changes to their circumstances.
Who is a "new application" for?
Anyone who is applying for a passport that is different to their previous passport, such as:
First Australian passport
Child passport > adult passport
Change of name and/or gender
Replacing a lost or stolen passport
Replacing an emergency passport
All child applications are considered "new applications".
How do I print my application form?
After you complete the application form online, you will be directed to download the form as a PDF document. You can then save and print the form.
Do I have to print the form in colour or black and white?
You can print in either colour or black and white.
Can I make amendments to my application form?
Once you have finished the form online and downloaded it, you cannot make any changes.
If you need to amend your form you can do so by writing the details by hand. Please cross out anything that is incorrect and sign/initial next to the amendment.
Why won't the system recognise my UK address?
You will need to go back and tell the system you are applying from outside Australia. It will allow you to enter an address anywhere in the world.
If you have told the system you are applying from inside Australia, it will force you to provide an Australian address.
I have submitted my application form online, what do I do now?
You cannot submit an application online. The online system is to fill in the application form only.
You must print the form and submit your application either by post or in person. Please return to the Home Page to find the instructions for this.
How long do I have to wait to receive my new passport?
Please allow at least 6 weeks from lodging your application to receiving your passport.
Do not book travel if you do not have your new passport yet.
Is there a faster option?
There is no priority service or fast-track processing option when applying outside of Australia.
If you have urgent travel within three weeks, you may be able to apply for an emergency passport.
For further information, return to the Home Page and select the option for Urgent Travel / Emergency Passport.
I sent my application by post, how do I know if it is being processed?
Processing begins when we take payment. You will be emailed a receipt when payment is successful. If you have received the emailed receipt then that is the indication that your application is being processed.
What do I do if I sent my application weeks ago and I haven't received my receipt?
You should check if we have emailed you. If there are any issues with your application, then you would be emailed advising what the issue is and what you should do. Payment is not taken, and processing does not begin, until a fully completed application is received.
You should also check your Royal Mail tracking number to see whether the package was received by us.
If you are still experiencing issues, please contact us to discuss. You must have your application number ready to give to us, which is the barcode number at the top of the application form.
How will you contact me?
If we need to contact you then it will be by email. In some circumstances we may call you instead.
You should make sure the contact details on your application form are correct.
Due to our privacy policy, we cannot speak to anyone on behalf of an applicant aged 18 years and over. You should make sure the contact details on the form are for the applicant and not someone else. If you are submitting an application for a child under 18, then you should put the lodging parent's contact information on the form.
You should also add our email address to your "safe senders" list: passports.lhlh @ dfat.gov.au
Can I track my application?
Yes, but tracking is limited for applications submitted outside Australia. You can track your application online at the Australian Passport Office website.
Most applications are processed in less than six weeks. If you have paid for the passport, it is still within the six week timeframe, and you have not been contacted for further information, then you should not contact us for an update.
If you have a change of circumstance, or need to speak with us about your application, then please contact us. You must have your application number ready to give to us, which is the barcode number at the top of the application form.
What does it mean if my application status is "in transit"?
This means it is on its way to our office from Australia. It can take us up to two weeks to receive a passport from Australia.
How do I receive my new passport?
Most passports will be posted to the residential address listed on the application form. Passports are sent with Royal Mail Special Delivery which is a registered and signed-for service.
If you have elected to collect the passport from our office (available in exceptional circumstances), then you will be notified when it is ready for collection. In the same email will be instructions including our collection times are and what to bring with you.
Is there a faster processing option?
There is no priority service or fast-track option when applying outside of Australia.
If you have urgent travel within three weeks, you may be able to apply for an emergency passport.
What is an emergency passport?
An emergency passport is a temporary travel document which only has six visa pages and no electronic chip.
Who can apply for an emergency passport?
Anyone who has Australian citizenship can apply for an emergency passport, provided they can show they have urgent travel booked. This includes those who have held an Australian passport before and those who would be applying for an emergency passport as their first Australian passport.
How long is an emergency passport valid for?
Emergency passports are usually issued with seven months validity. This allows one month of travel and six months for visa or entry purposes. In exceptional circumstances, it may be issued for up to 12 months.
Where can I travel on an emergency passport?
Not all countries accept emergency passports. You should check whether the country you are travelling to accepts them before you apply for one.
We cannot tell you which countries will or won't accept an emergency passport.
Can I apply for an emergency passport only?
Yes. If you are applying in person then you can choose to apply for an emergency passport only. You are not required to apply for the ordinary passport as well, although it is recommended.
Can I apply for an emergency passport as well as an ordinary passport?
Yes. You can apply for both an emergency passport and an ordinary passport. This can be done if you are applying in person or by post (if eligible).
Can I still apply by post if I need an emergency passport?
Yes, but only if you ordinarily meet the requirements to apply by post and you also apply for an ordinary passport.
Do I need to submit two separate applications, one for the emergency passport, and one for the ordinary passport?
No. Both passports will be processed using the same application form.
How do I apply for an emergency passport?
You should return to the Home Page and follow the instructions for Urgent Travel / Emergency Passports. You must be able to prove that you have urgent travel planned.
Can I add an emergency passport to an existing application?
Yes. In some circumstances you can add an emergency passport to your application. Please contact us for advice.
Can the expiry date on my current passport be extended?
No. You must apply for a new passport.
Can I get extra pages added to my current passport?
No. You must apply for a new passport.
Can I get a refund if I pay for an emergency passport but no longer need it?
No. Emergency passport fees are non-refundable.
Can I submit my application by post?
Only if you meet the eligibility requirements for adult or child renewal applications.
I live/work near the High Commission, can I come in and drop off my application?
No. There is no "drop-off-box" available. Our office operates an appointment-only system.
I do not meet the requirements to apply by post, can an exception be made?
No. Only certain applications can be submitted by post due to security and identity requirements.
How do I submit my application in person?
You must book an appointment for an in-person passport interview. You will need to bring your completed application form and original supporting documents with you.
Where do I make an appointment?
Appointments can be made online. The booking link is available when you follow the steps to submit an application. Please return to the Home Page and select the application process that suits your needs.
How do I submit multiple applications?
If you are submitting multiple applications in person, you must book an appointment for the correct number of applications. We cannot accept two or more applications if you have only booked an appointment for one application.
If you are submitting multiple applications by post, you can include the applications in the same envelope. Please ensure the applications are separated from each other, and supporting documents are provided for each applicant.
I am eligible to apply by post, but can I submit my application in person instead?
You should submit your application by post.
Who needs to attend the appointment?
Adult applicants must submit their own application.
Child applications must be submitted by at least one parent.
Children aged 16 and 17 years must attend the appointment along with at least one parent.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Please do not bring anyone with you to your appointment, unless they are required to be there.
Does my child need to attend the appointment for their application?
Children aged 15 years and younger do not need to attend the appointment. Children aged 16 and 17 years must attend the appointment.
Do both parents need to attend the appointment for a child application?
No. Only one parent needs to attend the appointment.
Does the Australian parent need to attend the appointment?
No. Either parent may attend the appointment.
Can I book an appointment somewhere other than in London?
We occasionally visit other major cities across the UK as part of our outreach service. Return to the Home Page to see if there is an outreach visit scheduled near you.
Can I submit my application in London if I don't live in the United Kingdom?
If you are located in the UK temporarily, then yes, you can submit your application with our office. You will need to provide a UK residential address to send the passport to, or collect the passport from our office when it is ready. You must also be in the UK long enough to receive the new passport.
If you are located in another country then you should contact the Passport Office in your closest Australian Embassy and submit your application with them.
What is a guarantor?
A guarantor is someone who will be named on your application form and act as a referee for your identity. They will need to meet the specific guarantor criteria and complete their section of the form.
Do I need a guarantor?
Applicants who are submitting the Overseas Passport Application Form need a guarantor. This part of the application is not optional.
Adult applicants who are submitting the Adult Renewal Application Form do not need a guarantor.
Can my guarantor be related to me?
No. Your guarantor must not be related to you and they must not live at the same address as you.
How long does the guarantor need to have known me for?
The guarantor must have known you for at least 12 months. If you are applying for a passport for a child, then the guarantor must have known the child for at least 12 months. If you are applying for a passport for a baby, then the guarantor should have known them since birth.
Does my guarantor have to be an Australian citizen?
No. Your guarantor can either be an Australian citizen with a valid Australian passport, or they can meet the occupation requirements.
Does my Australian citizen guarantor need more than 2 years left on their passport?
No. The guarantor's Australian passport must be valid at the time you submit your application. It must also have been originally issued for at least two years.
Can someone at the High Commission be my guarantor?
No. No one at the High Commission can act as a guarantor for you.
What occupations are accepted for a guarantor?
The following occupations are acceptable:
- Chartered/Certified Accountants
- Chartered Professional Engineers
- Judges, Barristers and Solicitors
- Registered Medical Practitioners (Doctors and GPs only), Dentists, Pharmacists
- Registered Nurses, Chiropractors, Optometrists, Physiotherapists and Psychologists
- Registered Veterinary Surgeons
- Members of Parliament, elected City, County and District Councillors
- Police Officers with at least five years continuous service
- Members currently serving in the regular Australian or British Defence Force with at least five years continuous service
- Ministers of Religion and Marriage Celebrants
- Teachers - full-time, who have been teaching for more than five years
- Civil Servants/Local Government employees - full-time, who have been employed continuously for at least five years by their current employer
- Bank Branch Managers - manager of a High Street bank, but not managers of investment or business branches, building societies, bank travel centres, loan centres or line mangers within a bank
Where do I sign my form?
This depends on the type of application form you are submitting:
Adult Renewal Application Form - you must sign and date section 5 of the form.
Overseas Passport Application Form - you must sign, date, and write your name in section 17 of the form. You must also sign section 18 with the signature that will appear on the passport.
For child applications, one parent must complete section 17 of the form. If the child is aged 10 years and over, the child must sign section 18 with a signature that will appear on the passport.
What colour pen can I use?
You must use a black pen.
Does the guarantor have to sign the form?
If you are submitting the Overseas Passport Application Form then yes, your guarantor must complete section 11 of the application form.
Does my child need to sign the form?
If the child is aged 10 years and over, the child must sign section 18 with a signature that will appear on the passport.
Where do I sign the form for a child application?
There are two sections which must be signed by the parents:
- Both parents must complete section 15 of the form to provide consent for the passport to be issued. This section must be witnessed as directed on the form.
- One parent must complete section 17 of the form.
Does my signature need witnessing for a child application?
The signatures in section 15 must be signed in front of a witness.
What are the witness requirements?
The witness to section 15 must:
- Not be related (by birth or marriage) to the parents or the child
- Not be living at the same address as the parents or the child
- Be aged 18 years or over
Can I sign my child's application form during the appointment?
You should sign the form before you attend your appointment.
You may need to have sections signed by people who are not at the appointment, such as the child over the age of 10 or the other parent.
Can you witness my signature during the appointment for a child's application?
No. Passport officers cannot witness your signature in section 15 of the application form.
If you do not sign the form in front of a witness before your appointment, you will need to ask a member of the public in the waiting area to witness your signature for you.
What do I do if I cannot get the child's other parent to sign the form?
You should try to submit a child application with signed consent from both parents.
If you are unable to get the signed consent from the other parent, please refer to the Australian Passport Office's section on Parental Responsibility and Consent.
Do I need to sign my form in front of you?
No. You are not required to sign any section of the forms in front of a passport officer.
What are the Australian passport photo requirements?
Please refer to the Australian Passport Office website Australian Passport Office for the current photo guidelines.
What do I ask for when I speak to my photographer?
You should ask for "Australian Standard Passport Photos" and show the photographer the guidelines listed on our website.
Can I use a photobooth?
We do not recommend using a photobooth in the United Kingdom as they are often not set to Australian standards.
Can I take my passport photo on my phone?
No. We do not recommend taking your passport photo on your phone. We have strict lighting and size requirements. You may also appear distorted if the wrong settings are used, or if the phone is too close to you when you take the photo.
You cannot use a selfie as a passport photo.
Can you recommend any passport photo companies in the United Kingdom?
We cannot recommend any specific companies in the United Kingdom. Please check with your photographer whether they are able to take photos which adhere to our guidelines.
You can contact us for recommendations near our office.
Can I wear my glasses?
No. You cannot wear glasses in your passport photo.
What is the "crown of the head"?
The "crown of the head" is the top of your skull, or where your skull would be if covered by hair or a head covering.
It is not the top of your hair or head covering.
Should I trim my photos down to size?
No. Do not trim your photos down to size. We will do this for you.
If you trim your photos, you risk cutting them too small and we will not be able to use them.
Why are my professional photos grainy or low-resolution?
Your photographer may not be using the specific paper or printer type which is listed in our guidelines.
If your photos appear grainy or low-resolution, you should speak with your photographer and ask them to re-print your photos before you send them to us.
How should I pack my photos when applying by post?
Please be mindful of potential damage in transit. You should package the photos so they arrive to us in good condition.
Common ways to damage photos are:
- Creases caused by folding your form/photos to fit into the envelope
- Creases and other wear and tear caused by flimsy envelopes - you should try and pack your photo between some cardboard, or use a hard-back envelope to post in your application
- Ink transfer caused by placing the back of the endorsed photo against the front of the other photo
- Sticking the photos to the application form with things such as paper clips, staples, blutac, glue, sticky tape, etc. Please do not stick the photos to your form, we will do this for you.
Why was my photo rejected?
There should be an explanation in the email that was sent to you when we rejected the photos and requested new higher quality photos. If you need further information, please respond to the email.
Can I send you a digital photo instead?
Our office accepts physical photos only. You can submit a digital photo only if you have been specifically asked for one.
How do I know if you received the new photos that I posted to you?
You should send the new photos using a Royal Mail tracked service so you know when we have received them.
After the new photos are received, your payment will be taken and we will send you the receipt. If you have received this, then your application is being processed.
If there are further issues, then you will be contacted by email.
How do I know if you received the digital photo that I emailed to you?
Only if you have been asked to send a digital photo.
The photo will be assessed and added to your application within a couple of business days. You will not receive any confirmation if it has been accepted, so no news is generally good news.
You should keep an eye on the application tracking on the Australian Passport Office, as it will be updated once the new passport is issued.
You will be contacted by email if the photo is rejected again.
I disagree with the reasons my photo was rejected, can I dispute the decision?
No. Passport photos undergo strict assessment by both our highly trained staff and facial recognition system.
If your photos are rejected, then this means that they have not passed this assessment.
There is no flexibility to accept photos that do not meet the Australian passport photo guidelines.
How do I increase the chance of my photos being accepted?
You should get your photos taken at a professional passport photo shop where a photographer will take and print the photos for you.
You should check the following before you give us the photos:
- The photo was printed on high quality glossy photo paper, minimum 200gsm
- The photo was printed using a dye sublimation printer
- The physical photo measures at least 35mm wide and 45mm high
- The size of your face (chin to crown) measures between 32mm-36mm
- There is consistent lighting across the photo, with no flash reflections or shadows on the face, hair, or background
- The entire photo is clear, not blurry or pixellated
- There are no marks on the photos, including pen marks, indentations, imperfections in the printing, scratches, or creases
- You have not stuck the photos to the form in any way (e.g. paper clip, staple, sticky tape, blutac, glue, double-sided tape)
What documents do I need?
This will depend on the type of application you are submitting. Please return to the Home Page and refer to the instructions for your application type.
I am applying for my adult renewal by post, what do I send in with my application?
You should send:
- Printed and completed Adult Renewal Application Form
- At least two Australian standard passport photos
- Printed and completed Payment Authorisation Form
Do not send any original documents. This includes your last passport.
I am applying for my child's renewal by post, what do I send in with the application?
You should send photocopies only of both parent's photo ID and proof of residential address. You may also be required to send name change documentation. You should return to the Home Page and refer to the instructions for a Child Renewal Application.
Do not send any original documents. This includes the child's last passport.
Do I need to send the previous passport in with the application if I apply by post?
No. Do not send any original documents. This includes the applicant's last passport.
I am applying in person, what do I bring with me?
You must bring a printed and completed application form.
You must also bring original supporting documents to confirm your/the applicant's Australian citizenship and your identity. Please return to the Home Page and refer to the instructions for submitting your type of application.
What does "original documents" mean?
"Original document" refers to documents which are in their original form as they were given to you by the issuing authority.
They are documents including:
- Australian citizenship certificate, issued by the Department of Home Affairs
- Australian birth certificate, issued by the Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages from the state where you were born
- Australian or non-Australian passport
- Australian or non-Australian driving licence
If you lose your document and have it re-issued by the relevant authority, it is still considered an "original document".
When you submit your application in person, we do not accept copies of any type. This includes photocopies, certified copies, and notarised copies.
Can I bring a photocopy or a scan of the document instead?
No.
Can I bring a certified or notarised copy of the document instead?
No.
I am submitting my application in person, do I have to bring my documents with me even if I brought them last time?
Yes. You must always bring your original supporting documents with you every time you submit an application in person.
What identity documents are required for a child application being submitting in person?
You do not need to show any identity documents for the child.
You will need to show valid government issued photo ID and recent proof of address for the parent submitting the application. Common documents we accept are UK driving licences (both photo ID and proof of address), Australian or non-Australian passports (photo ID only), and bank statements or bills issued in the last six months (proof of address).
I posted my previous passport and/or other original documents with my application, will I get them back?
Yes. Any original documents will be returned to you. They will arrive a few days after your application was received by us. They will not be sent with the new passport.
You should not post any original documents unless you have been requested to do so.
How much does an Australian passport cost in the United Kingdom?
The fee for an adult passport is AUD$611.
The fee for a child aged 16/17 years is AUD$514.
The fee for a child aged 15 years and younger is AUD$305.
If you are aged 75 years or older, you can choose to apply for either the 10-year passport (AUD$611) or a 5-year passport for a reduced fee of AUD$402.
The fee for an emergency passport is AUD$265 regardless of age.
The fee for a replacement passport is AUD$265 and is only payable in certain circumstances.
Why are child passports cheaper than adult passports?
Child passports are issued with half the amount of validity as an adult passport, so the fee is approximately half the amount of an adult passport fee.
Can my child apply for a 10-year passport?
Only children aged 16-17 are issued with 10-year passports.
I am over 75 years old, can I get a discount?
You can choose to apply for a 5-year passport for a reduced fee of AUD$392 or you can apply for a 10-year passport for AUD$596.
If I apply for my whole family's passports at the same time, can I get a discount?
No. There is no discount available in any circumstance.
Can I apply for a five year passport?
Only if you are a child aged 15 years and younger, or an adult aged 75 years and over.
Can I pay to fast track my passport?
No. There is no fast-track processing option or priority service when applying outside of Australia.
What currency are the fees charged in?
Fees are charged in Australian Dollars. You can pay with a UK bank card, but you may be charged a fee by your financial institution.
What payment method do you accept?
Payment is processed by credit or debit card and we accept VISA, Mastercard, and AMEX. Contactless is not available.
Can I get a refund?
Refunds are only processed in certain exceptional circumstances.
What currency will the refund be processed in?
We charge and refund fees in AUD. If you used a UK bank account, the amount you are refunded may vary depending on current exchange rates and your bank's overseas transaction fees.
How do I change my name on my Australian passport?
You will need to submit an application and provide supporting documents which confirm your name change, citizenship, and identity.
Please return to the Home Page and refer to the instructions for Changing your name and/or gender on your passport.
Do I have to submit my application in person?
Yes. Name change applications must be submitted in person.
What documents are required?
This will depend on your specific personal circumstances. Please return to the Home Page and refer to the instructions for Changing your name and/or gender on your passport.
If you need help, please contact us.
I have had multiple name changes, what documents do I need to bring with me?
You should bring documents that link all of your name changes together.
I am having trouble getting a specific name change document, can you help?
No. You will need to contact the issuing authority directly for assistance.
I was born in Australia and have changed my name overseas, do I have to also update my birth certificate?
Yes. You must update the name you are registered under with the Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages (RBDM) in the State where you were born.
You will be issued either an updated birth certificate or a separate name change certificate.
This is the only document that can be used to update the name on your Australian passport if you were born in Australia.
What if I don't want to change my birth record?
You will not be changing your birth record. If you receive a new birth certificate, then it will have both your current and previous names listed.
I was born outside of Australia and I am using a UK name change document, does it need to be legalised?
Yes. You should have your document legalised with an apostille by the United Kingdom's Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Can I get my document legalised by a notary public or a solicitor?
No. Only the FCDO can legalise documents.
Notary publics and solicitors can "notarise" or "certify" documents, but this is not the same as "legalising".
My British passport application has been stopped as I have not updated the name on my Australian passport yet, can you help?
We cannot liaise with foreign authorities on your behalf. You will need to check with HMPO what is required for you to proceed with your British passport application.
Can you issue a letter confirming my intended name change if I do not apply to officially change my name in my Australian passport?
No. We are unable to issue a letter confirming an intended name change.
The only way to update your name with the Australian Passport Office is by submitting an application to change your name. You are required to attend an in-person appointment with a completed application form and original documents supporting your change of name, Australian citizenship, and identity. The new passport will then be issued in up to six weeks.
I have urgent travel, can you issue me an emergency passport in my new name?
No. Emergency passports are issued based on your previous passport records.
My Australian passport is expired and I do not want to update my name on it, what do I do?
You do not need to update your name with the Australian Passport Office until you decide to apply for a new passport. The next time you apply for an Australian passport, you should apply in your new name with the appropriate documents.
Do I need to pay to change my name on my passport?
You may be eligible for a free replacement passport (same expiry as your current passport) if you have at least two years left on your current passport and be changing your name for one of the following reasons:
- Change of surname due to marriage
- Change of surname due to divorce
- Change of surname due to entering or leaving a registered relationship or de facto relationship
- Change of surname due to the death of a spouse
- Change of given and/or surname if you have changed gender
You must provide evidence of the event to be eligible, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.
If you have changed your name by choice or for any other reason, you will need to pay for your new passport. If you have more than two years left on your current passport then you can pay for a replacement passport for a reduced fee, otherwise you will need to pay for a new 10-year passport.
My child has changed their name, how do I apply for a passport for them in the new name?
You should return to the Home Page and follow the instructions for a Child Application. You will also need to check the Name and Gender Change page to ensure that you have the correct name change document as this varies depending on the child's place of birth.
I want to go back to using my maiden name but my citizenship certificate was issued after I was married, can I just show you my birth certificate?
No. Your name record with the Australian government (in terms of your citizenship and passport) begins when citizenship is granted. If you want to go back to using a name that you were known by before you became a citizen, then you need to treat it like it is a brand new name.
How do I submit a child application?
Child renewal applications can be submitted by post.
Other child applications must be submitted in person.
Please return to the Home Page and refer to the instructions for a child application or child renewal.
Does my child need to attend the appointment?
Children aged 16 and 17 years old must attend the appointment.
Children aged 15 years and younger do not need to attend the appointment.
Do both parents need to attend the appointment?
No. Only one parent needs to attend the appointment.
Does the Australian parent need to attend the appointment?
No. Either parent can attend the appointment.
My child was born in the United Kingdom, can I apply for an Australian passport for them?
Yes, provided you have applied for and received confirmation of citizenship.
You must apply for Citizenship by Descent through the Department of Home Affairs before you can apply for a passport.
What supporting documents are required when submitting a child application in person?
At a minimum, we require:
- Child's Australian or non-Australian birth certificate
- Child's Australian citizenship certificate (if they have been issued one)
- Photo ID and proof of current residential address for the parent submitting the application
- Name change document for the parent if their current name is different to what is listed on the child's birth certificate
You may be required to submit additional documents. Please refer to the instructions in the specific section for child applications.
Why do I have to show my child's birth certificate if they were not born in Australia?
You must always provide your child's birth certificate. It has important information on it which is not on the child's citizenship certificate. It also lists the names of the parents so we can check the correct people have provided consent for the passport on the application form.
I have lost my child's birth certificate, can you help me get a new one?
No. You will need to contact the issuing authority directly.
One of the parents has changed their name since the child's birth certificate was issued, what do I do?
You must show us a name change document, e.g. marriage certificate, updated birth certificate, name change certificate, UK deed poll.
What documents are required if one of the parents is deceased?
You must show us the original death certificate.
What do I do if I am unable to get the other parent to sign the form?
You must complete a B9 Child Without Full Parental Consent Form to confirm the details of the non-consenting parent and the circumstances. This must be done even when renewing the passport. You can download the form from the Australian Passport Office website.
What do I do if my child was born through surrogacy?
Please refer to the Surrogacy section on the Australian Passport Office website for further information.
There are additional forms to be completed and submitted with the application, which can be downloaded from the Australian Passport Office website. The additional forms must be provided even when renewing the passport.
You must also bring the original court order with you to your appointment.
What do I do if there are court orders in place relating to my child?
You must show us the original court orders. You must also provide us with a printed and completed B7 No Further Court Orders Form, which you can download from the Australian Passport Office website.
My child was issued a passport when they were under the age of 18. Does their passport get cancelled when they turn 18, or can they keep using it until it expires?
They can keep using their passport until it expires, even after they turn 18. The passport does not get cancelled when they turn 18.
Do you accept documents in languages other than English?
No.
What do I do if one of the supporting documents I need to present is written in a language other than English?
You must provide an English translation of the document, in addition to the original document.
How do I get a document translated?
You should get your document translated by a translator who is registered with an official UK organisation such as the Institute of Linguists or the Institute of Translation & Interpreting.
My translation was done outside of the UK, will you still accept it?
The translation can be accepted as long as the translator is a member of a similar official body in their own country.
Can you help me find a translator?
No. We are unable to recommend specific translators.
My child was born overseas, do I have to get their birth certificate translated?
Yes. The birth certificate is a required document for all child applications, regardless of what country they were born in.
I got married overseas and need to use my marriage certificate as a supporting document, do I have to get it translated?
Yes. If your marriage certificate is required as a supporting document for your application, then you must have it translated.
My document was issued in Europe and has the English translation included on the back of the certificate, do I still need to get it translated?
No. If your document was issued by the issuing authority with the translation included either on the front or the back of the certificate, then you do not need to get an additional translation.
I live in the UK and my child is applying for an Australian passport in another country, do I have to provide my consent for the passport through the Passport Office in London?
No. You can provide your written consent directly to the lodging parent to be submitted with the application.
I would prefer to submit my consent separately to the lodging parent, can I do that through the Passport Office in London?
Yes. Please contact us to discuss.
I applied for my passport but it hasn't arrived in the six week timeframe, what do I do?
Please contact us for assistance.
I have been given a Royal Mail tracking number but the package is showing as "returned to sender", what do I do?
You will need to wait until we receive the returned passport in the post. We will contact you when it arrives to arrange re-delivery.
I have been given a Royal Mail tracking number but the package is showing as "lost in transit", what do I do?
Please contact us for assistance.
I received my passport, then forwarded it to another address by mail, and it has gone missing. Can you re-issue my passport for me?
No. Once the new passport has been despatched from our office and delivered to the address on the application form, you are responsible for keeping the document safe.
You should avoid sending the passport by mail or courier privately, unless it is absolutely necessary (e.g. applying for a non-Australian passport or visa). In the event your passport is lost, you will be required to report the loss, attend an appointment to apply for a new passport, and pay the appropriate fee.
My passport was stolen, what do I do?
You should contact us to report the theft.
I have lost my passport, what do I do?
You should contact us to report the loss.
Do I have to report my passport as lost or stolen?
Yes. The Australian Passports Act 2005 has penalties for people who don't report the loss or theft of their passport as soon as possible. It is also a criminal offence to make false or misleading statements.
Do I need to report the loss/theft to the police?
We recommend you report the loss or theft to both the local police and the Australian police on your return to Australia. When you apply to replace the passport, please provide the police report or police report number.
I am currently travelling, can I get a passport to continue my travels?
Yes. Please contact us for advice.
If you are in the UK temporarily, then you can be issued with an emergency passport to continue your travels. Please note, emergency passports may not be accepted by all countries.
If you are in the UK for at least six weeks and are able to gather the documents needed for an ordinary passport, then we would recommend you apply for that instead of an emergency passport.
How do I apply to replace a lost or stolen passport?
You must attend an in-person appointment to submit an application form with documents supporting your Australian citizenship and identity. Please return to the home page and select the link for Lost / Stolen Passports.
Are there any extra documents that I need to bring?
In addition to the application, you will need to complete a B11 General Declaration By Passport Applicant Form. To access the form, please return to the home page and select the link for Supporting Forms. You must write a detailed statement on the form explaining what happened to your passport and bring it with you to your appointment.
Can I apply by post if my previous passport was lost or stolen?
No. You must attend an in-person appointment to submit an application form with documents supporting your Australian citizenship and identity.
I have had more than one passport lost or stolen in a five year period, what do I do?
You will still need to report the loss/theft and apply for a new passport. The new passport may be issued with reduced validity.
Can I still use my passport for travel and identity purposes?
Yes.
Your passport cannot be used by someone else for international travel as they would need the physical passport.
Your passport cannot be used by someone else for in-person identity purposes as they would need the physical passport.
Government departments and financial institutions in Australia can access the Document Verification Service (DVS) to confirm if a document is valid.
Should I cancel my passport if I have been a victim of a data breach or identity theft?
This is a personal decision and will depend on your individual circumstances.
If you are concerned about your current passport, you can apply for a new passport at any time.
Do I have to pay for a new passport if I cancel it?
Yes. You will be charged the current fee for a new ordinary passport.
Can you provide further information?
Please refer to the Australian Passport Office website for further information about Data Breaches & Identity Theft.
Can I have more than one current passport?
Yes, but only if you meet specific criteria.
What is a concurrent passport?
A concurrent passport is a second passport that is issued to facilitate travel where you cannot use your normal passport, such as:
- Visa waiting times will cause significant travel delays
- A destination country won't accept a passport showing evidence of travel to a third country
How much is a concurrent passport?
Concurrent passports cost the same amount as an ordinary 10-year passport.
How long is a concurrent passport valid for?
Concurrent passports are valid for up to three years, depending on your circumstances.
What documents are required to apply for a concurrent passport?
You must complete the appropriate forms for your type of application (e.g. Adult Passport Renewal Application Form), provide new passport photos, and a completed B15 Concurrent Passport Form which can be downloaded by returning to the Home Page and selecting the option for Supporting Forms.
You must also provide evidence of the reason behind your application for a concurrent passport, such as a detailed letter from your employer explaining your circumstances.
Do I need an Australian passport to travel to Australia if I am a citizen?
Yes. All Australian citizens must hold a valid Australian passport to enter Australia.
I have a non-Australian passport as well, can I use that instead?
No. Australian citizens are not eligible for visas on their non-Australian passport.
Can I travel to Australia if my Australian passport has expired?
No. Your Australian passport must be valid for travel.
Can I travel to Australia on my Australian passport up until the expiry date?
Yes. There is no minimum validity requirement for Australian citizens travelling to Australia.
I need my previous passport details but I have misplaced my passport and do not have a copy of it. Can you help?
Yes. We can issue you with a Passport History Letter which will confirm all of your Australian passport details including the name on the passport, date of birth, passport number, and issue and expiry dates.
How do I get a Passport History Letter?
You should email us a written and signed statement requesting your passport history. This should be in the form of a B11 General Declaration By Passport Applicant Form. To access the form, please return to the home page and select the link for Supporting Forms. You must print and sign the form by hand as digital signatures are not accepted.
What can a Passport History Letter be used for?
If you are applying for a non-Australian passport or visa you may need to provide evidence of your previous passport details. This may be to prove that you held a passport at a particular time or that your passport was issued in a particular name.
Can I become an Australian citizen?
Please contact the Department of Home Affairs at www.homeaffairs.gov.au.
How do I apply for Australian citizenship for my child who was born in the United Kingdom?
Please contact the Department of Home Affairs at www.homeaffairs.gov.au.
I haven't received my/my child's citizenship certificate and my passport appointment is coming up - can I use the citizenship acquired email as proof of citizenship instead?
Yes. You must print the letter and bring it with you to your appointment.
I have lost my citizenship certificate - how do I apply for a new one?
Please contact the Department of Home Affairs at www.homeaffairs.gov.au.
How do I apply for an Australian visa?
Please contact the Department of Home Affairs at www.homeaffairs.gov.au.
What do I do if I have lost Australian citizenship?
Please contact the Department of Home Affairs at www.homeaffairs.gov.au.
If I call the Passport Office, can you put me through to the correct Department?
No. The Passport Office in London can only handle enquiries relating to Australian passports.