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Passport services.

Are you planning to travel overseas this year? Renew or apply for your passport early as passport demand remains high.   You’ll need to allow at least six weeks to get your passport. Where possible, don't book flights without a valid passport. If you can't wait at least six weeks for your passport, you can use the priority processing service. If you've already booked your trip and need a passport, please call 131 232 to let the Australian Passport Office know your travel dates. For more information on how passport applications are prioritised, visit the Australian Passports Office website  or contact the office via their online enquiries form . 

You need a valid passport to travel overseas. If you're an Australian citizen, or a  dual citizen  wanting to travel as an Australian, you need a valid Australian passport. Every person travelling must have their own passport, including  children .

Your Australian passport is an important proof of your identity and citizenship.

Explore this page to learn the basics of:

How to get a passport

Passport validity.

• Protecting your passport

Passport damage

Emergency passports.

• ePassports and SmartGates

Dual citizenship and passports

Passport assistance overseas.

Be prepared. Check what to do before you go, and what you must do if something happens to your passport overseas.

The  Australian Passport Office , part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, issues Australian passports. You can complete your application online and lodge it at a participating Australia Post outlet, or at an Australian embassy or consulate overseas .

To get an Australian passport, you need to prove your identity and Australian citizenship. The steps in the application process are:

• gather original documents
• ask someone to be your referee or guarantor
• complete your application
• print your application
• get passport photos
• lodge your application and pay the fee

Start the process well before you travel. It can take time to gather what you need and apply. You'll have to pay an additional fee if you want to fast track your application.

For detailed information about how to get a new passport, or renew your passport, see the  Australian Passport Office website.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. Some airlines also impose this rule on their own initiative. It can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over. Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. You can receive conflicting advice from different sources. Getting it wrong can mean being stranded.

Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Protecting your passport and identity

Your passport is a valuable document. It's your proof of identity and citizenship overseas. You are responsible for ensuring your passport isn’t damaged, and it should be stored securely.

Some people may trick you into handing over your passport. It's attractive to people who want to use your identity to commit crimes.

To protect your passport:

• always know where your passport is
• keep it in a safe place
• keep it dry

More tips and information for  protecting your passport .

If you've been the victim of identity theft, you can contact IDCARE for support.

Normal wear and tear to your passport shouldn't be a problem. More serious damage can stop you from travelling. It's important that:

• there are no tears or cuts in the passport pages, especially the photo page
• everything on the photo page is legible and clear
• there are no marks across your photo or in the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) on the photo page
• no pages have been removed
• there is no alteration or tampering

If you’re not sure about the condition of your passport, call the Australian Passport Office on 131 232 or contact your nearest Australian embassy or consulate overseas .  We may need to see your passport to assess it.

If you’re overseas and have a genuine and urgent need to travel, you can apply for an   emergency passport at an  Australian embassy or consulate overseas .

Emergency passports are only valid for up to 12 months and don’t have a chip. Because of this, there are restrictions on using them in some countries. Check the visa requirements of any country you plan to enter or transit via our travel advice.

You can apply for a new passport at the same time as you apply for an emergency passport, and collect the new passport when you get home.

SmartGates, eGates and ePassports

All Australian passports, except for emergency passports , are ePassports. An ePassport contains an electronic chip that helps to confirm your identity.

International airports in Australia, and some overseas, allow Australians with ePassports to use automated passport control machines. Australia calls these machines SmartGates. Other countries might call them eGates. They use facial recognition technology and your ePassport to check your identity and authenticate your passport.

The Australian Border Force is responsible for SmartGate operations in Australia.

Learn more about  using ePassports with SmartGates  from the  Australian Border Force .

If you're a dual citizen, you may have two passports. This can affect your ability to access consular help in some countries.

Australians, including dual nationals, should depart and enter Australia on their Australian passport. If you have a passport from another country, you can use that for travel once you have left Australia if you wish.

Consider which passport you want to travel on. Read our advice for  dual nationals .

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

What we can do

We can help you if your passport is lost, stolen or damaged while you're overseas.

We can issue a new passport, emergency passport or provisional travel document to help you get back to Australia.

If you need help overseas, call your nearest Australian embassy or consulate , or call our 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305.

If you're an Australian living overseas, we can process passport renewal applications. Contact your nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

What we can't do

We can't give consular help to  dual nationals  who aren't travelling on an Australian passport in some countries. Consider which passport you travel on.

If you need an Australian passport, visit the  Australian Passport Office .

Final tips before you go

Prepare before you travel:

• check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date you will depart your destination
• apply for a passport early, if you don't already have one
• research entry and exit requirements in your destination country
• apply for a visa, if required
• if you're a dual national, research local laws and decide which passport you will travel on
• Learn about  visas
• Read key entry and exit requirements for all your  destinations
• Get  travel insurance  before you go
• See our  before you go checklist
• What to do if your passport is lost, stolen or damaged overseas
• See our advice for  dual nationals
• Learn more about  travelling with children
• Consular Services Charter
• Find an  Australian embassy or consulate overseas
• Learn more about  using ePassports with SmartGates  from the  Australian Border Force
• See the  Australian Passport Office  (APO)'s 7-step guides on  adult  or  child  passport applications
• Read the APO's advice on how to  renew your passport  and see their  frequently asked questions

Related content

Many Australians hold two or more nationalities. If you're travelling to the country of your other nationality, find out how your citizenship can impact you.

Update April 12, 2024

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Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

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Travel Advisory September 8, 2023

Australia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with removal of major event information.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Australia.

If you decide to travel to Australia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Australia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry

One page required for entry stamp

Amounts over AUD 10,000, or equivalent, must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. consulate general sydney.

Suite 2, 50 Miller Street North Sydney, NSW 2060 Australia Telephone:  +(61) (2) 2 8219-2100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 4422-2201 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Canberra (The Embassy does not provide consular services.) Moonah Place Yarralumla, ACT 2600 Australia Telephone: +(61) (2) 6214-5600 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 411-424-608 Fax: +(61) (2) 6214-5970

U.S. Consulate General Melbourne 553 St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia Telephone: +(61) (3) 9526-5900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (3) 9389-3601 Fax: +(61) (3) 9526-5968 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Perth 4th Floor 16 St. George's Terrace Perth, WA 6000 Australia Telephone: +(61) (8) 6144-5100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (8) 9476-0081 Fax: +(61) (8) 9325-5914 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.   

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA. The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers.

If you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

If you are travelling on a valid U.S. ePassport (a passport that contains an electronic chip) and are 16 years of age or older, you are eligible to use Australia’s automated border processing system, SmartGate, upon arrival in Australia (SmartGate kiosks are available only at participating airports). There is no additional enrollment process or fee to use SmartGate. Visit the SmartGate website for more information and for a list of participating airports in Australia.

Visit the Embassy of Australia website for the most current visa information.  

HIV/AIDS restrictions. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreigners seeking permanent residence in Australia. Depending on the type of visa you apply for, the length of your stay, and your intended activities in Australia, you may be required to undergo a medical examination before the Australian Department of Home Affairs will issue you a visa.

If you are in the application process, and are found to be HIV positive, a decision on the application will be considered on the same grounds as any other pre-existing medical condition (such as tuberculosis or cancer), with the focus on the cost to Australia’s health care and community services.

Additional information about Australian immigration health requirements can be found here.

Please verify this information with the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. before you travel. 

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorists have targeted, and could continue to target, Australia.

• Australia has an alert system for possible terrorist attacks. The threat levels range from “not expected” to “certain.” The Australian National Security website has up-to-date information regarding the current terrorism threat level. You may also contact the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.
• U.S. citizens in Australia should remain vigilant toward their personal security and exercise caution.
• Australian law protects the right of individuals and groups to engage in peaceful protest and to publicly express their views. Demonstrations and political rallies are generally approved by local authorities and well publicized. However, please be cautious of any possible confrontation that could escalate into violence. You should attempt to avoid the areas of demonstrations and be careful within the vicinity of any demonstrations. You should stay current with media coverage of local events and always be aware of your surroundings.
• You should be aware that robberies, burglaries, assault, and auto theft are common in Australia’s larger cities.
• Foreign visitors in popular tourist areas are targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers, and petty thieves. Most petty crime can be avoided if basic security precautions are taken.
• Be careful when visiting bars or clubs in the entertainment areas of major cities, as “bar brawls” and other assaults sometimes occur. You should watch out for drink spiking when consuming alcohol with unfamiliar people.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 000 and contact the U.S. Consulate in your district.
• The local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information about Australian Victim Assistance programs.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. consulate in your district for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned or deported.

• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, such as inside certain areas of Australian airports, near prisons, and at military bases.
• Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Alcohol and Drugs:

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy sentences and fines. Please see Australia’s Department of Health webpage for further information. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in jail time.
• Random breath testing of a driver's blood alcohol level is a common occurrence.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Potential Health Screening: Australian authorities have broad powers to prevent the entry of diseases and other materials into Australia that might pose a threat to its welfare. In the event of a public health emergency involving a communicable disease, passengers arriving in Australia may be subject to strict health screening measures, including testing, monitoring, and assessment for possible quarantine.

Customs: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural goods, including plants and food products, and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals and pets. Can you bring it in?

Contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington, D.C., or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, and visit the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture website for additional information.

Natural Disasters:

Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. These events are difficult to predict and can result in loss of life. You should be aware of conditions around you and monitor local weather and safety reports so you can take appropriate action when needed.

See our webpage for information on storm preparedness and response.

Safety Concerns:

Outdoor Recreation/Adventure

• Be aware that Australian fauna can be dangerous. From jellyfish to crocodiles, sharks, poisonous insects, and snakes, the continent and its waters host wildlife that merit awe and respect in equal doses.
• Visit the Wet Tropics Management Authority visitor information guide for information on Australian wildlife and marine life.
• Take important safety precautions when swimming, such as swimming only between the flags where a lifeguard is present, and never swimming alone.
• Further information on beach safety can be found on the Surf Life Saving website.

Follow recommended precautions when snorkeling and scuba diving and never dive alone. Over the past few years, there have been numerous deaths related to snorkeling and scuba diving incidents.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Australia. Australian federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

As of December 9, 2017 Australia defines marriage as “the union between two people.” Australia grants temporary and permanent visas to same-sex partners of Australian citizens.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance

• Australia enforces laws prohibiting discrimination against access to premises, facilities, and accommodation.
• Many of the downtown areas of Australian cities were built in the 1800s. These areas often have narrow sidewalks crowded with pedestrians and tourists.
• Most public transit, parking, streets, and buildings are accessible for disabled travelers.
• Tourist spots at the beach or in the Australian outback can have varying degrees of accessibility.
• Many accommodations and venues provide accessibility information on their websites.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Australia, dial 000.

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

• Excellent medical care is available in Australia.
• Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Prescriptions:

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Australia  to ensure the medication is  legal in   Australia .
• Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of hospitals and a link to the Australian National Health Services Directory at Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia (usembassy.gov) . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Australia.

Pharmaceuticals:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.  

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem during certain months in Australia due to bush fires. Consider the impact seasonal bush fire season pollution may have on your health and consult your doctor before traveling.

The air quality varies considerably and changes with the season. It is typically at its worst in the bush fire season. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Traffic operates on the left side of the road, and all vehicles use right-hand drive.
• Use caution when crossing streets and when driving.
• When crossing roads on foot, make sure you look carefully in all directions.
• Seat belt use by drivers and all passengers is mandatory, and fines apply for not wearing them.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• Speed limits and laws are rigorously enforced. Speed limits vary throughout Australia and are measured in kilometers, not miles. Be aware that speed cameras are everywhere and you will be ticketed for driving over the speed limit.
• Roads and streets are frequently narrower and less graded than U.S. highways.
• Outside major metropolitan areas, most highways are two-lane roads with significant distances between destinations.
• When driving in Australia, exercise caution while passing or merging with adjacent traffic.
• If driving in rural areas, be alert to free-roaming animals, such as kangaroos, and "road-trains" (several semi-truck trailers connected together).
• Passing road-trains is dangerous, and you should pull over to allow on-coming road-trains to pass to avoid being sideswiped.
• If you have no experience with a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you should exercise common-sense when driving in the Australian outback.

Traffic Laws:

• Each state/territory has different rules about using a foreign driver’s license and the conditions under which a visitor might have to get an international driver’s license. More information about  driving rules and regulations is available by state .
• Texting or holding your phone while driving is against the law in Australia, but you can use a hands-free system to communicate while driving.
• For specific information concerning Australian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, mandatory insurance, and the rental and operation of motor vehicles in Australia, visit the  Australian Tourist Commission website.

Public Transportation:  Australia has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, ferries, trains, and subways. Metered taxis and ride sharing services are also prevalent. Use common sense safety practices, such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings, on all public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Australia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Australia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Australia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  portal select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Australia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Australian passports rank among the world's most powerful. So where can it take you?

The passports of the world have been ranked according to how powerful they are by an international citizenship assistance firm, and Australia has come out in the top 10 rankings once again.

Henley & Partners produces a list of the most powerful passports each year, with Japan coming in first place for the sixth year in a row.

People who hold Australian passports can travel to 185 countries with relative ease — but there's still a long list of places that require paperwork.

Find out how passports are ranked and where the Australian one can take you.

How does the ranking work?

The Henley Passport Index is based on how many places people with those passports can access without a visa — but the total score also includes countries that require passport holders to obtain a visa upon arrival, a visitor's permit or an electronic travel authority. 

Henley & Partners bases its score out of 227 destinations, which includes countries as well areas that aren't technically classified as countries such as Taiwan.

However, it only ranks 199 passports. 

The firm uses exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association to compile the index. 

Where does Australia rank?

Australia has a score of 185. 

It's ranked on the 8th tier alongside Canada, Greece and Malta, behind 22 other countries on higher tiers. 

That's on par with the previous three years, when it was also ranked on the 8th tier. 

The lowest Australia's ranking has fallen to since the index was created in 2006 was 9th in 2019, 2010 and 2006.

Australia's highest ranking has been 6th in 2015, 2013 and 2012.

Where does an Australia passport get you?

Henley & Partners breaks down the countries into four categories — visa-free travel, visas on arrival, electronic travel authority and visa required.

Tap each of the three cards to see which destinations the firm says fall into those categories. 

Visa-free travel 

• South Africa
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands
• French Guiana
• Hong Kong (SAR China)
• Macao (SAR China)
• Philippines
• Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bonaire; St. Eustatius and Saba
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• French West Indies
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• Faroe Islands
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• North Macedonia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

Middle East

• Palestinian Territory
• Cook Islands
• French Polynesia
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Northern Mariana Islands

Electronic travel authority 

• United States 
• South Korea
• Puerto Rico
• US Virgin Islands
• American Samoa

Visa on arrival

• Burkina Faso
• Cape Verde Islands
• Comoro Islands
• Guinea-Bissau
• Sierra Leone
• Tajikistan 
• Timor-Leste 
• Trinidad and Tobago 

Middle East 

• Saudi Arabia 
• United Arab Emirates 
• Marshall Islands 
• Palau Islands 
• Papua New Guinea 
• Solomon Islands 

Visa required 

• Central African Republic
• Congo (Dem. Rep.)
• Congo (Rep.)
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Sao Tome and Principe
• South Sudan
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Turkmenistan

Caribbean: 

• Russian Federation

Visa information, placenames and country categories have been replicated as they were listed in Henley & Partners data

Top 10 passport rankings:

Passport holders in these countries can travel internationally with relative ease.

• 1st: Japan — visa-free score: 193 
• 2nd: Singapore and South Korea — visa-free score: 192 
• 3rd: Germany and Spain — visa-free score: 190 
• 4th: Finland, Italy and Luxembourg — visa-free score: 189 
• 5th: Austria, Denmark, Netherlands and Sweden — visa-free score: 188 
• 6th: France, Ireland, Portugal and the United Kingdom — visa-free score: 187 
• 7th: Belgium, Czech Republic, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and the United States — visa-free score: 186 
• 8th: Australia, Canada, Greece and Malta — visa-free score: 185 
• 9th: Hungary and Poland — visa-free score: 184 
• 10th: Lithuania and Slovakia — visa-free score: 183 

Rankings, visa-free scores and placenames have been replicated as they were listed in Henley & Partners data

Bottom 10 passport rankings:

Citizens in these countries have less travel options if they want to avoid encountering blocks or paperwork.

• 100th Congo (Democratic Republic), Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Sudan — visa-free score: 42 
• 101st:  Bangladesh, Kosovo and Libya — visa-free score: 41 
• 102nd:  North Korea — visa-free score: 40 
• 103rd:  Nepal and Palestinian Territory — visa-free score: 38 
• 104th:  Somalia — visa-free score: 35 
• 105th:  Yemen — visa-free score: 34 
• 106th:  Pakistan — visa-free score: 32 
• 107th:  Syria — visa-free score: 30 
• 108th:  Iraq — visa-free score: 29 
• 109th:  Afghanistan — visa-free score: 27 

Show me the full list

Tap the world icon below to see the entire list of each of the 199 passports and where they were ranked. 

World's most powerful passports

1: Japan— visa-free score: 193

2: Singapore  and South Korea— visa-free score: 192

3: Germany and Spain— visa-free score: 190

4: Finland, Italy and Luxembourg— visa-free score: 189

5: Austria, Denmark,  Netherlands and Sweden— visa-free score: 188

6: France, Ireland, Portugal and United Kingdom— visa-free score: 187

7: Belgium, Czech Republic, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and United States— visa-free score: 186

8: Australia, Canada, Greece and Malta— visa-free score: 185

9: Hungary and Poland — visa-free score: 184

10: Lithuania and  Slovakia — visa-free score: 183

11: Latvia and Slovenia — visa-free score: 182

12: Estonia — visa-free score: 181

13: Iceland — visa-free score: 180

14: Malaysia — visa-free score: 179

15: Liechtenstein and the United Arab Emirates — visa-free score: 178

16: Cyprus — visa-free score: 177

17: Romania — visa-free score: 175

18: Bulgaria, Chile, Croatia and Monaco — visa-free score: 174

19: Hong Kong (SAR China — visa-free score: 171

20: Argentina and Brazil — visa-free score: 170

21: San Marino — visa-free score: 169

22: Andorra — visa-free score: 168

23: Brunei — visa-free score: 166

24: Barbados — visa-free score: 163

25: Israel and Mexico — visa-free score: 159

26: St. Kitts and Nevis — visa-free score: 157

27: Bahamas — visa-free score: 155

28: Vatican City — visa-free score: 154

29: Seychelles and Uruguay — visa-free score: 153

30: St. Vincent and the Grenadines — visa-free score: 152

31: Antigua and Barbuda, tying with Trinidad and Tobago — visa-free score: 151

32: Costa Rica — visa-free score: 150

33: St. Lucia — visa-free score: 147

34: Grenada and Mauritius — visa-free score: 146

35: Dominica and Taiwan (Chinese Taipei) — visa-free score: 145

36: Macao (SAR China), Panama and Ukraine — visa-free score: 144

37: Paraguay — visa-free score: 142

38: Peru — visa-free score: 136

38: Serbia — visa-free score: 136

39: Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras — visa-free score: 133

40: El Salvador, Samoa and Solomon Islands — visa-free score: 132

41: Tonga — visa-free score: 130

42:  Venezuela — visa-free score: 129

43: Nicaragua and Tuvalu — visa-free score: 128

44: North Macedonia — visa-free score: 125

45: Kiribati and Montenegro — visa-free score: 124

46: Marshall Islands — visa-free score: 123

47: Moldova — visa-free score: 121

48: Palau Islands — visa-free score: 120

49:  Bosnia and Herzegovina, Micronesia and the Russian Federation — visa-free score: 118

50: Georgia — visa-free score: 116

51: Albania — visa-free score: 115

52: Turkey — visa-free score: 110

53: South Africa — visa-free score: 106

54: Belize — visa-free score: 103

55: Qatar — visa-free score: 100

56: Vanuatu — visa-free score: 98

57: Kuwait — visa-free score: 7

58: Timor-Leste — visa-free score: 94

59: Ecuador — visa-free score: 92

60: Nauru — visa-free score: 90

61: Maldives — visa-free score: 89

62: Fiji and Guyana — visa-free score: 88

63: Bahrain, Botswana and Jamaica — visa-free score: 87

64: Papua New Guinea — visa-free score: 83

65: Oman and Saudi Arabia — visa-free score: 82

66: Bolivia — visa-free score: 80

66: China — visa-free score: 80

67: Namibia — visa-free score: 79

68: Belarus and Thailand — visa-free score: 78

69: Lesotho — visa-free score: 77

70: Kazakhstan and Suriname — visa-free score: 76

71: Eswatini — visa-free score: 75

72: Malawi — visa-free score: 74

73: Kenya — visa-free score: 73

74: Tanzania — visa-free score: 72

75: Indonesia and Zambia — visa-free score: 71

76: Azerbaijan, Dominican Republic and Tunisia — visa-free score: 70

77: The Gambia — visa-free score: 69

78: Philippines and Uganda — visa-free score: 67

79: Armenia, Cape Verde Islands and Zimbabwe — visa-free score: 66

80: Cuba, Ghana and Morocco — visa-free score: 65

81: Kyrgyzstan and Sierra Leone — visa-free score: 64

82: Mongolia and Mozambique — visa-free score: 62

83: Benin and Rwanda — visa-free score: 61

84: Sao Tome and Principe, tying with Tajikistan — visa-free score: 60

85: India, Mauritania and Uzbekistan — visa-free score: 59

86: Burkina Faso — visa-free score: 58

87: Cote d'Ivoire, Gabon and Senegal — visa-free score: 57

88: Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Madagascar, Togo and Vietnam — visa-free score: 55

89: Cambodia and Mali — visa-free score: 54

90: Algeria, Bhutan, Chad, Comoro Islands, Egypt, Jordan, Niger and Turkmenistan — visa-free score: 53

91: Central African Republic and Guinea-Bissau — visa-free score: 52

92: Angola and Cameroon — visa-free score: 51

93: Burundi and Laos — visa-free score: 50

94: Congo (Rep.), Haiti and Liberia — visa-free score: 49

95:  Djibouti — visa-free score: 48

96: Myanmar — visa-free score: 47

97: Ethiopia and Nigeria — visa-free score: 46

98 : Eritrea and South Sudan — visa-free score: 44

99: Iran — visa-free score: 43

100: Congo (Dem. Rep.), Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Sudan — visa-free score: 42

101: Bangladesh, Kosovo and Libya — visa-free score: 41

102: North Korea — visa-free score: 40

103: Nepal and Palestinian Territory — visa-free score: 38

104: Somalia — visa-free score: 35

105: Yemen — visa-free score: 34

106: Pakistan — visa-free score: 32

107:  Syria — visa-free score: 30

108:  Iraq — visa-free score: 29

109: Afghanistan — visa-free score: 27

What about Russia and Ukraine?

Russia's invasion of Ukraine hasn't affected either country in terms of the Henley Passport Index, with a press release saying there were in roughly the same position since the war began:

• Ukraine ranks in 36th position with a score of 144
• Russia ranks in 49th position with a score of 118

However, the firm said that while they weren't majorly affected "on paper", there were practical differences. 

"Due to airspace closures and sanctions, Russian citizens are effectively barred from travelling throughout most of the developed world, with the marked exceptions of Dubai and Istanbul, which have become focal points," the firm's statement said. 

"Ukrainians, on the other hand, have been granted the right to live and work in the [European Union] for up to three years under an emergency plan in response to what has become Europe's biggest refugee crisis this century."

The firm said that, if Ukraine was successful in joining the European Union, it would probably break into the top 10 most powerful passports in the world. 

What's the Smartraveller advice? 

Smartraveller, which is run by the the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, gives Australians general advice about overseas travel, including how to keep safe while outside the country. 

It has four categories of safety advice for individual counties:

• Do not travel 
• Reconsider your need to travel 
• Exercise a high degree of caution 
• Exercise normal safety precautions 

Currently, the Smartraveller website has advice for 178 countries. 

Advice for countries is updated in response to a range of factors such as wars and civil unrest and can change depending on what's happening in each country. 

The most recent updates came on January 11, while the oldest update was on June 27, 2022. 

Here's the advice listed as of January 14:

Exercise normal safety precautions

• United States of America
• Brunei Darussalam
• South Korea (Republic of Korea)
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Solomon Islands

Exercise a high degree of caution

• Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
• The Bahamas
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Kyrgyz Republic
• Timor-Leste
• Israel and the Palestinian Territories
• United Arab Emirates
• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea

Reconsider your need to travel

• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Saudi Arabia

Do not travel

• North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Advice, placenames and country categories have been replicated as they were listed by Smartraveller on January 14

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• Immigration
• International Law

Australian Passport

The citizens of Australia can visit 142 countries without a visa.

Australian passport holders also have access to get 40 e-visas or 22 visas on arrival .

Australia has a population of 25.7M people and the capital is Canberra 🇦🇺.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for Australian passport holders are Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau .

Visa free countries

So, where can Australians travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where Australia citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

• 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
• 🇦🇩 Andorra (90 days)
• 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
• 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
• 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
• 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
• 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
• 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
• 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
• 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
• 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
• 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
• 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
• 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
• 🇮🇪 Ireland (3 months)
• 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
• 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
• 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
• 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
• 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands (90 days)
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (90 days)
• 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
• 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
• 🇸🇲 San Marino (90 days)
• 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
• 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
• 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland (90 days)
• 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
• 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days)
• 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands (N/A)
• 🇦🇽 Åland Islands (3 months)
• 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (N/A)
• 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
• 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
• 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
• 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
• 🇱🇸 Lesotho (14 days)
• 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
• 🇲🇺 Mauritius (90 days)
• 🇲🇦 Morocco (3 months)
• 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
• 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
• 🇹🇳 Tunisia (3 months)
• 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
• 🇾🇹 Mayotte (3 months)
• 🇷🇪 Réunion (3 months)
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (1 month)
• 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas (3 months)
• 🇧🇧 Barbados (6 months)
• 🇧🇿 Belize (30 days)
• 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
• 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
• 🇨🇦 Canada (6 months)
• 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
• 🇩🇲 Dominica (6 months)
• 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (90 days)
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
• 🇸🇻 El Salvador (3 months)
• 🇬🇩 Grenada (3 months)
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
• 🇬🇾 Guyana (3 months)
• 🇭🇹 Haiti (3 months)
• 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
• 🇯🇲 Jamaica (30 days)
• 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
• 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
• 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
• 🇵🇪 Peru (183 days)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 month)
• 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
• 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
• 🇺🇾 Uruguay (3 months)
• 🇻🇪 Venezuela (90 days)
• 🇬🇱 Greenland (N/A)
• 🇬🇫 French Guiana (3 months)
• 🇵🇲 Saint Pierre and Miquelon (3 months)
• 🇦🇼 Aruba (30 days, extendable to 180 days)
• Caribbean Netherlands (90 days. Includes Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.)
• 🇨🇼 Curaçao (90 days)
• 🇸🇽 Sint Maarten (90 days)
• 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months)
• 🇧🇲 Bermuda (Up to 6 months, decided on arrival.)
• 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (30 days, extensions possible)
• 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (6 months)
• 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (A visitor permit is normally issued as a stamp in the passport on arrival, The maximum validity period is 1 month.)
• 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
• 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
• 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (Under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA required.)
• 🇦🇲 Armenia (180 days)
• 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
• 🇮🇱 Israel (3 months)
• 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
• 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
• 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (3 months)
• 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
• 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 30 days)
• 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
• 🇶🇦 Qatar (30 days)
• 🇸🇬 Singapore (90 days)
• 🇹🇯 Tajikistan (30 days)
• 🇹🇭 Thailand (30 days)
• 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (30 days)
• 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
• 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)
• 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days)
• 🇭🇰 Hong Kong (90 days)
• 🇲🇴 Macau (30 days)
• 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
• 🇰🇮 Kiribati (120 days)
• 🇫🇲 Micronesia (30 days)
• 🇳🇿 New Zealand (Indefinitely)
• 🇼🇸 Samoa (60 days)
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)
• 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (90 days within 180 days)
• 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (3 months)
• 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna (3 months)
• 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (31 days)
• 🇳🇺 Niue (30 days)
• 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days visa free and landing fee 35 USD or tax of 5 USD if not going ashore.)
• 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days)
• 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 4/1/2024.

• Timor-Leste visa free countries
• Indonesia visa free countries
• Papua New Guinea visa free countries

• Visa-Free Country List for Australian Passport
• Free Visa Countries

As a holder of an Australian passport, a citizen can travel to 133 countries visa-free. Ranked 8 th in terms of travel freedom, the passport also gives holders entry access to 36 e-visas or 29 visas on arrival.

Australia’s capital is Canberra, and the country is part of Australia and New Zealand. It has a population of 25.7 million people.

English is the predominant language, and the Australian Dollar is the currency in use.

Nearby countries

The nearest visa-free countries to visit with an Australian passport include:

• Philippines,
• Hong Kong and

Visa-free Countries for Australian Passport

Frequently Asked Questions

How many countries can Australian citizen travel without visa?

Holders of the Australian passport have access to 133 countries without a visa.

Do Australian citizens need a visa for USA?

Australia is among the countries that enjoy the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and hence can travel to the United States without a visa for a duration of 90 days or less without requiring a visa, having met certain requirements.

How powerful is the Australian passport?

Based on the Henley Passport Index , the Australian passport is ranking 8 th in the world. This high mobility score makes the passport one of the most desirable in the world.

Related VISAs:

• Visa-Free Countries for Austrian Passport Holders
• Visa-Free Countries for Albanian Passport
• Visit these Countries with Bulgarian Passport Visa-Free
• List of Free Visa Countries for Canadian Passport
• About The Author
• Latest Posts

I am a passionate writer, Father of 3 and i love travelling. Asides from travelling being a type of education, it also gives me the types of experiences to enable me write about Visa requirements for intending travellers. Follow all my posts on VisaCountries.com i wish you successful travel experience.

You May Also Like

• Travel Updates

Aussie passport second most expensive in world

A graph has revealed just how expensive the Aussie passport is compared to other countries from around the world — does it surprise you?

Missing travellers rescued from Aussie outback

Aussies warned over Euro summer of chaos

Photo of men standing on rock sparks outrage

Aussies already lay claim to having one of the most powerful passports in the world — and according to new research, the second most expensive.

In three months, the cost of the Australian passport is set to increase by 15 per cent, meaning those who plan on purchasing the ten-year travel document will have to pay almost $400, up from $346.

In January, the fee increased per standard inflation price indexing that occurs each year – and will jump up again on July 1 to exactly $397.90 as the federal government puts up fees.

If you require priority processing, it’s another $252. So, if you’re planning on renewing your passport, it’s best to do so before July to avoid paying the extra $54 fee.

Compare the Market Australia revealed the Aussie travel document is the second most expensive passport in the world, based on price, years valid and power — and surprisingly, it has the second-lowest value per visa-free country – despite its relatively high ranking in the Henley Index.

According to Compare the Market Australia’s latest research, Mexico ranked first at $353.90 for its 10-year passport, while the six-year and three-year passports were fourth and ninth most expensive respectively.

The data found Australia’s passport is almost $100 more expensive than the next-most expensive passport on the list (belonging to the USA at $252.72).

For comparison, the New Zealand passport (the fifth most expensive on the list) costs $193.72.

Meanwhile, passports for the United Arab Emirates, India, and Hungary were the three cheapest on the list at $27.13, $27.70 and $31.78, respectively.

Compare the Market’s executive general manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, said the study revealed the importance of keeping your travel documents safe while overseas. “Damage, loss or theft of your passport is an unfortunate risk many people face while overseas,” Mr Taylor said.

“It is important to stay vigilant and take care of these vital documents, as even minor damage can stop you from travelling in some instances.”

And he’s not wrong. Several Aussies have been knocked back from visiting places like Bali.

One woman was turned away from her flight to Denpasar last month just hours prior to boarding after revealing she has a small tear in the spine of the document.

Another woman bound for Bali discovered water damage on the document, which ultimately led to her having to fork out hundreds of dollars more for an express replacement.

Mr Taylor warned if your passport is lost, damaged or stolen while overseas, it is important to contact the relevant authorities as fast as possible.

“[As] in some cases you could be charged or fined if you cannot present appropriate and valid identification.”

Meanwhile, with the Aussie passport fee set to increase, which works out to be just $33 over a 10-year period, a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) spokesperson said it comes with good reason.

More Coverage

“The increase to passport fees will support priority initiatives within the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, including the government’s efforts to modernise Australia’s passport systems and services,” the spokesperson said.

“It has a high level of technological sophistication, backed by rigorous anti-fraud measures, which ensures its integrity. This is a key reason why Australian passport holders currently receive visa-free access to over 100 countries.”

The one-off July 1 fee increase is set to raise $349 million over a three-year period.

A group of travellers have been rescued in the Aussie outback after becoming stranded with their vehicle in remote terrain.

A number of European hotspots have begun a controversial measure that will affect everyone planning a long-awaited soiree in the northern hemisphere sun.

A photo of three young men standing on a rock in the Queensland bush has sparked furious controversy online.

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This is the 52nd edition of Australia in Brief, revised and updated in February 2021

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• Smartraveller – travel advice

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Prove your COVID-19 vaccinations when you travel overseas.

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The Australian Passport Office and its agents are committed to providing a secure, efficient and responsive passport service for Australia.

• Australian Passport Office

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• Within Australia: 1300 555 135
• Outside Australia: +61 2 6261 3305
• Getting help overseas
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24-hour emergency consular support

If you're an Australian citizen and you have serious concerns about your welfare or that of another Australian overseas, contact your local Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate, or call our 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on

• 1300 555 135 within Australia
• +61 2 6261 3305 from anywhere in the world.

Read more about getting help overseas on Smartraveller.

We maintain travel advisories on Smartraveller for over 175 destinations, assigning an overall advice level to each. The advice levels reflect the risks for Australian travellers in each destination. We also provide general advice on a range of travel topics.

Visit Smartraveller to explore our travel advice for all destinations .

We continually review and update our travel advice based on credible information. Stay up to date with any changes by subscribing for updates .

Visit the Australian Passport Office for more about passports.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not issue visas for overseas travel or visiting Australia and can’t provide specific information on visas.

Read about visas for Australians travelling overseas .

Find out about visas to visit Australia .

Documents/Forms required

Review requirements for your application type.

• Adult renewal application using the one page form  -  Australian Passport Renewal Application (PC7)
• Adult application using the five page form  -  Application for an Australian Passport Overseas (PC8)
• Child application for all applicants 17 years and under  ( Application for an Australian Passport Overseas - PC8)

NOT SURE WHICH FORM TO USE?

When you  fill out your application form online at the global website , you will automatically be directed to the correct form.  If you are unsure whether you qualify for a renewal form, please check the criteria below.

Note:  We cannot accept forms intended for lodgement in Australia. If you obtained a hard copy form in Australia or selected the online option to indicate you are lodging in Australia, this form cannot be accepted overseas.  Please complete a new application form online and print it out for your interview. 

AUSTRALIAN PASSPORT RENEWAL APPLICATION (PC7) FOR ADULT RENEWALS

Notice:  PC7 renewal application forms are currently displaying an expiration date of 3 years after your passport expiration, due to a technical issue.  You may still apply using these forms if you meet all other criteria for a PC7 renewal application below. 

Adults  who are renewing their Australian passport can use this form to renew their passport (including damaged passports) if all of the following are true:

• you are an adult (18 years or older), AND
• your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 years or older, AND
• you are  not  changing any of your personal details on the passport, AND
• your most recent passport is/was valid for over 2 years at the time of issue, AND
• your most recent passport has  not  been reported lost/stolen AND
• your most recent passport was issued on or after 01/01/2006, AND
• you are successfully able to answer the security questions on the website.

Note:  Adults using the one-page  PC7 Australian Passport Renewal Application  form can apply by mail.  Please refer to the  PC7 mail instructions  for how to prepare your application kit. 

APPLICATION FOR AN AUSTRALIAN PASSPORT OVERSEAS (PC8) FOR BOTH ADULT AND CHILDREN

If you do not qualify for renewal form, you must use the Application for an Australian Passport Overseas (PC8). This includes the following applicants:

• you are applying for a first ever Australian passport
• you are applying for a child passport (under 18 years of age)
• you are applying for a first adult passport and your child passport was issued to you at 15 years or younger
• you are replacing a lost or stolen passport
• you are changing your name or personal details on the passport
• you are applying for your first passport after resumption of citizenship
• you are applying to replace a limited validity passport, emergency passport, or other temporary travel document
• your passport was issued before 01/01/2006
• you cannot answer the security questions for the renewal form.

Most child renewal applications for children aged 15 years and younger can be lodged by mailed.  Please see the CHILD RENEWAL MAIL INSTRUCTIONS to see if you are eligible. All other PC8 applications must be lodged in person.  

These are the world's most expensive passports

A new Australian passport will set you back $346, but from July the fee will rise by 15 per cent.

While the essential identity document ensures visa free travel to many countries, does it represent good value?

Research company Compare the Market AU compared the cost with other nations' passports. Here are the top 10.

Pacific island tourist hotspot Fiji is at number 10. Fijians must pay a fee of $142 for a passport. It enables them to travel visa-free to only 80 nations.

9.Mexico (three years)

Mexico issues three types of passport. Its three-year version costs $148.65. For that fee, its citizens can visit 162 countries visa free.

8. United Kingdom

British passport holders faced a swathe of extra red tape for entry to Europe after the country's historic Brexit vote.

But for the price of $159, a UK passport offers visa free travel to 192 destinations.

A 10-year Canadian passport costs $181.41.

The travel document gives its citizens non-visa travel to 189 nations.

A passport in Italy, part of the 27-nation European Union bloc, costs $191.36.

For that sum, Italians can enjoy visa-free journeys to 194 destinations.

5. New Zealand

Kiwis have to pay $193.72 for their passports which provide visa free travel to 190 countries.

4. Mexico (six year version)

Even if they choose just a six-year passport, Mexicans must fork out $202.

3. United States

Americans must fork out $252.72 for a 10-year passport.

It allows visa-free entry to 189 countries, just one less than Aussie passports.

2. Australia

The familiar blue Australian passport is in second place.

Lasting 10 years, its costs a pricey $346, but from July the fee will jump by 15 per cent..

For that amount you can visit 190 nations without the need for a visa.

1. Mexico (10 years)

Mexico's 10-year passport is in top spot for the world's costliest at $353.90.

It offers visa-free travel to 162 countries.

While that seem quite a few, it's well below cheaper ones issued by other nations.

The 13 places you need a visa to travel with an American passport

I f you hold an American passport , you're likely used to traveling internationally with relative ease. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that many countries require Americans to jump through some hoops to visit in the form of obtaining a visa.

Beginning in January, 13 countries will issue American citizens a visa to visit as tourists. Note this list does not contain information regarding countries that the U.S. Department of State has advised U.S. citizens to refrain from traveling to by issuing Level 4 alerts. It also does not detail destinations that are not currently issuing visas for Americans.

Here's what you need to know.

Type: Australian Electronic Travel Authorization

How to apply: Online through the Australian government

Length of time: Valid for visits up to three months within a 12-month period

Processing time: Varies by application, but most are processed within 21 days

More information: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas or travel.state.gov

Related: Australia news

Type: Bolivia Tourist Visa

How to apply: Through the Bolivian Consulate . Residents of select states can apply in person at Bolivian Consulates in Washington, D.C., New York, Miami, Houston or Los Angeles. Alternatively, you can purchase a visa at any land or air border, per the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia .

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 30 days for 90 days total in one year

Processing time: N/A

More information: boliviawdc.org/en-us , bo.usembassy.gov or travel.state.gov

Type: Brazil eVisa

How to apply: Online through VFS.Global

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 90 days for multiple entries over 10 years

Processing time: Five business days

More information: brazil.vfsevisa.com or travel.state.gov

Related reading: Brazil to require visas from Americans starting next month

Type: China Tourist Visa

How to apply: Online through the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs before submitting the application at a Chinese Embassy or Consulate

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 30 days over a 90-day period

Processing time: Four business days

More information: travel.state.gov or us.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng

Read more: China news

Type: Egypt e-Visa

How to apply: Online through the Egyptian Ministry of Interior

Cost: $25 for a one-time entry, $60 for a multiple-entry visa

Processing time: Seven business days

More information: visa2egypt.gov.eg or travel.state.gov

Related: Update: Is it safe to travel to Israel, Egypt and the Middle East?

Type: Indian e-Visa

How to apply: Online through the Indian Bureau of Immigration

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 30 days over one year

Cost: $10-25, depending on time of visit

Processing time: 72 hours

More information: indianembassyusa.gov , indianvisaonline.gov , indiainnewyork.gov.in or travel.state.gov

Read more: India news

Type: Indonesia Visa On Arrival

How to apply: Online through the Indonesian government

Length of time: Valid for travel up to 30 days

More information: molina.imigrasi.go.id , id.usembassy.gov/visas/ or travel.state.gov

Related: Indonesia news

Type: Kenyan eVisa

How to apply: Online for a single-entry tourist visa through the Directorate of Immigration Services

Length of time: Valid for three months from the date of issuance

Processing time: Two business days

More information: evisa.go.ke or travel.state.gov

Type: Myanmar Tourist eVisa

How to apply: Online through Myanmar's Ministry of Immigration and Population

Length of time: Valid for travel up to 28 days, from 90 days of issuance

Processing time: Three business days

More information: evisa.moip.gov.mm or travel.state.gov

New Zealand

Type: New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)

How to apply: Online through New Zealand Immigration

Length of time: Valid for travel up to three months, from two years of issuance

More information: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/nzeta or https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/NewZealand.html#:~:text=U.S.%20citizens%20traveling%20to%20or,for%20up%20to%20two%20years

Related: New Zealand news

Type: Qatar Visa on arrival

How to apply: Upon arrival at the Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Length of time: Valid for 30 days, with both single and multiple-entry visas available

More information: visitqatar.com

Read more: Qatar news

Type: Sir Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization

How to apply: Online through the Sri Lanka tourism portal and travel advisor

Length of time: Valid for travel up to 30 days and 30 days from issuance

Processing time: Three to 20 business days

More information: lka-egov.org or eta.gov.lk

Type: Vietnam Electronic Visa

How to apply: Online through the Vietnamese government

Length of time: Valid for travel from 90 days of issuance, for travel up to 30 days

More information: vietnamvisa.govt.vn or vietnamembassy-usa.org

Related: Vietnam news

Bottom line

Given that processing timelines, fees and even application requirements change throughout time, we recommend checking your country of interest ahead of travel to ensure you are up to date with the latest processes.

We also suggest bookmarking the State Department's page for each country, which includes information related to visas, safety and more. Also, enroll in the STEP program . For more information, refer to the U.S. Embassy associated with each international destination.

Related reading:

• The difference between CDC and State Department travel warnings
• Brazil to require visas from Americans starting next month
• If you need a passport quickly, this service may be for you
• Passport processing wait times decrease for the 1st time since February
• Can you have multiple passports?
• How the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program could help you on your next trip abroad

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Passport fees

Fees as of 1 january 2024.

All fees are shown in Australian dollars

When do I pay the passport fee?

You pay the fee when you lodge your application.

How do I pay the passport fee?

At Australia Post - EFTPOS, MasterCard, Visa, AMEX or cash

At a passport office – EFTPOS, MasterCard or Visa only – no cash

Overseas – you’ll usually have to pay an equivalent amount in local currency. Fees are usually taken by EFTPOS or credit card. For details, contact the Australian diplomatic mission or consulate where you’re going to lodge your application.

I have a senior’s card. Can I get a concessional passport?

If you’re 75 or over, you can opt for a five-year passport at half the cost of a standard 10-year passport.