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The Australian Passport Renewal form serves as a crucial document for Australian citizens seeking to maintain their ability to travel internationally. To qualify for renewal, applicants must hold a valid adult Australian passport that was issued at least two years ago, on or after July 1, 2000, and must present it alongside their application. If you're under 18, certain conditions also apply regarding previously held child passports. Understanding the implications of lost or stolen passports is vital, as such events can lead to identity theft or unauthorized use. It's important to keep your passport secure at all times. Lodging your application varies based on whether you are in Australia or overseas. In Australia, applications are generally submitted in person at an authorized Australia Post outlet. Those renewing passports abroad should contact their nearest Australian mission for specific instructions. Payment methods also differ, with EFTPOS and credit cards being the preferred options in Australia, while international applicants must check with local offices for acceptable payment methods. To ensure swift processing, applicants can inquire about priority services for quicker turnover. Remember to include two recent passport photographs that meet strict specifications. Keeping these guidelines in mind will make the renewal process much smoother and help avoid unnecessary delays.

Form Sample

have an adult Australian passport that was valid for at least 2 years when issued, and
was issued after 1/7/2000, and
was issued in your current name, date of birth and sex,

A P P O I N T M E N T S

Only certain applicants should lodge their forms at a Passport Office in Australia.

Appointments are essential.

For criteria, visit www.passports.gov.au

Protect your identity

Lost or stolen passports cause inconvenience and may be used by others to assume your identity for illegal activities. Keep your

passport safe at all times.

Australian Passport Information Service

131 232

If you have any questions about this form or about how to get an Australian passport, or if you wish to comment about our service, offer suggestions for improvement, or register a complaint, you may telephone us on 131 232 (from anywhere in Australia), visit our web site at: www.passports.gov.au, or write to the following address:

Director, Passport Operations Section

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

R.G. Casey Building

John McEwen Crescent

Barton ACT 0221

Or contact the nearest Australian mission

Check before travelling

Visit the Department’s website at www.smartraveller.gov.au to view the latest travel advice.

35MM

72G

Australian Passport Renewal Application

Who should use this form?

Use this form if you are an Australian citizen aged 18 years or over and:

OR have a child Australian passport that was valid for at least 2 years when issued, and

was issued after 1/7/2005, and

you were 16 years and over at the time of issue, and was issued in your current name, date of birth and sex.

Note: If you cannot present your passport at the time of your renewal you cannot use the renewal process.

Lodgement, payment and validity

You must provide the passport that matches the number printed on the top of page 2 of this form with your application. If you are renewing your passport in Australia, you should lodge your renewal application in person at an Australia Post outlet (you may need to phone to make an appointment). If you are renewing your passport overseas, please contact your nearest Australian mission for advice on lodging your application.

Preferred methods of payment in Australia are EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa or cash (cheques are not accepted). If applying overseas, check with the nearest Australian mission for details of the current fee and acceptable methods and currency of payment.

The Passports Office is committed to issuing a travel document within ten working days. This timeframe excludes the time taken for the Passport Office to receive the application and the time taken to deliver the document from the Passport Office to the applicant. If you require a two working day turnaround, ask about the priority processing service. An additional fee applies.

An adult passport is normally valid for 10 years.

A seniors’ passport (available to those aged 75 or over) is valid for 5 years; a lower fee applies.

If your passport has been lost or stolen

If your current or recently expired passport has been lost or stolen, you will need to complete an Application for Australian Passport: Adult form to replace it. All lost and stolen travel documents should be reported immediately, regardless of whether you wish to replace the travel document or not. Contact the Australian Passport Information Service on 131 232 or your nearest overseas mission if this occurs whilst overseas.

NOTE

Further details about DFAT’s rights, obligations and policies in relation to obtaining and disclosing

information are available in the Passports Privacy brochure or at www.passports.gov.au

 

 

 

Photograph requirements

You must provide two identical colour photographs of yourself. The photos must:

be no more than six months old, have appropriate brightness and contrast, and show your skin tones naturally

be between 35mm and 40mm in width, and between 45mm and 50mm in height, be of good quality colour and on high quality paper, with no ink or marks on the image

be in sharp focus and clear

be of your head and top of your shoulders and show your shoulders square on (not portrait style with you looking over one shoulder) and show your face square on (both edges of the face should be visible)

show you looking straight at the camera, and your head not tilted

be taken with a neutral expression (not laughing or frowning) with your mouth closed

be close up, so that the head takes up between 32mm and 36mm of the photo (see diagram at section 5 over the page)

have a plain, light-coloured background and be taken with uniform lighting (no shadows across the face) show your eyes open and clearly visible, and no hair in your eyes

show your eyes clearly through glasses—if you wear them—with no flash reflection off the glasses, and no tinted lenses (if possible, avoid heavy glasses frames—wear lighter framed glasses if you have them)

show you without any hat or other head covering (if you wear a head covering for religious reasons, we will accept a photograph of you wearing it, but your facial features from bottom of chin to top of forehead and both edges of your face must be clearly shown).

Note: due to security printing requirements, images reproduced in passports will not be photographic quality and will appear different from the photographs supplied.

Acceptable

45MM

Not square on

Too dark

Too light

Too far away

 

 

 

Form PC7_0812 (Page 1 of 2)

Document Specifications

Fact Description
Eligibility To renew, you must have a valid adult Australian passport issued after July 1, 2000, and it should have been valid for at least 2 years.
Lodgement Renewal applications should be lodged in person at an Australia Post outlet in Australia. If overseas, contact your nearest Australian mission.
Payment Methods In Australia, preferred payment methods include EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash. Cheques are not accepted.
Processing Time The Passport Office aims to issue your travel document within ten working days, excluding delivery time.
Lost or Stolen Passport Report lost or stolen passports immediately to the Australian Passport Information Service or your nearest overseas mission.
Photograph Requirements Two identical, recent color photographs are needed. They must meet specific size and clarity standards, including showing your face clearly.
Seniors' Passport A seniors’ passport, available for individuals aged 75 or over, is valid for 5 years and has a lower fee.

Steps to Filling Out Australian Passport Renewal

Ready to renew your Australian passport? It’s important to ensure you follow the necessary steps to complete the renewal application smoothly. Below are the instructions that will guide you through the process, ensuring you have everything you need before you submit your form.

  1. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria: You should have an adult Australian passport that was valid for at least 2 years, issued after July 1, 2000, and in your current name, date of birth, and sex.
  2. Obtain the Australian Passport Renewal Application form. This can usually be found online or at designated locations.
  3. Fill out the form completely, ensuring all sections are answered accurately. Pay special attention to personal details while confirming they match your current passport information.
  4. Gather two identical color photographs of yourself, adhering to the specified requirements: recent, properly sized, and clear representation of your features without obstructions.
  5. Locate your current or recently expired passport, as its number must be provided on your application form.
  6. Decide where you will lodge your application. If you’re in Australia, visit an Australia Post outlet. For applicants overseas, find your nearest Australian mission for assistance.
  7. Prepare the appropriate payment method. In Australia, you can use EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash. If applying from overseas, check with the mission regarding acceptable payment methods.
  8. Submit your application in person, ensuring that all documents, including your current passport and the photos, are provided along with the completed form.
  9. Inquire about the processing timeframe. Typically, passports are issued within ten working days, but you can ask about priority processing if you need it sooner.

Now that you understand the steps to complete your passport renewal application, you are one step closer to your new travel document. Make sure to prepare all necessary materials to avoid delays and complications. Best of luck with your renewal!

More About Australian Passport Renewal

Who can use the Australian Passport Renewal form?

You can use the renewal form if you are an Australian citizen aged 18 or over. Your current or recently expired adult passport must have been valid for at least two years and issued after July 1, 2000. It must also have been issued in your current name, date of birth, and sex. If you are renewing a child's passport, it should have been valid for at least two years at the time of issue, issued after July 1, 2005, and you must have been at least 16 years old when it was issued. If you cannot present your passport during the renewal process, you will need to complete a different application form.

What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?

If your passport has been lost or stolen, it’s important to act quickly. You will need to fill out the Application for Australian Passport: Adult form to get it replaced. Regardless of whether you want a replacement, all lost and stolen passports must be reported immediately to ensure your identity is protected. You can reach the Australian Passport Information Service at 131 232 or contact the nearest Australian mission if you are overseas.

How do I pay for the passport renewal?

In Australia, the preferred payment methods for passport renewal include EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash. Please note that cheques are not accepted. If you are renewing your passport from overseas, check with the nearest Australian mission for information on current fees and acceptable payment methods and currency.

What are the requirements for passport photos?

When renewing your passport, you must provide two identical, color photographs. These photos should be no more than six months old and must meet several criteria: they should show appropriate brightness and contrast, be of good quality, and measure between 35mm and 40mm in width, and between 45mm and 50mm in height. The image must be clear, focused, and taken with a neutral expression. Additionally, ensure that your face and shoulders are visible, and that the background is plain and light-colored. For specific detailed requirements, refer to the instructions provided in the form.

Common mistakes

  1. Not Meeting Eligibility Criteria: Applicants often overlook the requirement that their current passport must have been valid for at least 2 years when issued. Additionally, the passport must have been issued after July 1, 2000, and bear the applicant’s current name, date of birth, and sex.

  2. Ignoring Photograph Specifications: Many people fail to adhere to the strict photograph requirements. Common mistakes include submitting outdated photos, incorrect dimensions, or images that do not properly showcase the face and shoulders.

  3. Not Providing the Current Passport: Applicants sometimes neglect to include their current passport, which must match the number printed on page 2 of the application form. Without this document, the renewal process cannot proceed.

  4. Improper Payment Methods: Payment mishaps can occur when applicants choose methods not accepted for renewal, such as cheques. It is crucial to utilize EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash.

  5. Failure to Make Appointments: Applicants might not realize that an appointment is essential for lodging their forms at a Passport Office. This oversight can lead to delays in processing their application.

  6. Neglecting to Report Lost or Stolen Passports: Those who have lost or had their passport stolen may forget to report the incident. Immediate reporting is vital, irrespective of whether a replacement is desired.

  7. Overlooking Processing Times: It is a common mistake to underestimate the importance of processing times. Applicants should be aware that the Passport Office aims to issue travel documents within ten working days, not including delivery time.

Documents used along the form

The process of renewing an Australian passport involves more than just submitting the passport renewal application form. Several other documents and forms are often required to ensure a smooth renewal process. These documents assist in verifying identity and supporting the application. Below is a list of common documents that may be needed when renewing an Australian passport.

  • Application for Australian Passport: Adult - This form is necessary for individuals replacing a lost or stolen passport. It gathers information to establish identity and eligibility for a new passport.
  • Proof of Identity Documents - A renewal application may need additional identity verification through official documents such as a birth certificate, driver's license, or Medicare card. These documents confirm personal information.
  • Photographs - Two identical passport-sized photos must be provided. These images have strict requirements regarding size, lighting, and facial expression, as they are used for official identification.
  • Identity Declaration Form - This form may require a qualified witness to verify the applicant's identity. It serves as a statement confirming the authenticity of the individual's identity documents.
  • Payment Receipt - A receipt confirming payment for the passport renewal fee must be included. Acceptable payment methods vary depending on the location of the application.
  • Evidence of Name Change - If the applicant's name differs from the one on the current passport, documents confirming a legal name change (like a marriage certificate or change of name certificate) may be necessary.
  • Any Previous Passports - If available, submitting the most recent passport is crucial. This document helps streamline verification during the renewal process.
  • Additional Supporting Documents - Depending on individual circumstances, other documentation may be requested to support the application, such as court orders or identity documents from overseas.

Before submitting the application, it is advisable to review all required documents to ensure compliance with the guidelines. Having the right information available can significantly reduce delays in the processing of a passport renewal application.

Similar forms

The US Passport Renewal Application Form (DS-82) is closely aligned with the Australian Passport Renewal form. Both documents require applicants to hold a previously issued passport that is still valid or hasn’t expired long ago. Furthermore, applicants are asked to submit a recent photograph that meets specific requirements and to ensure the details on the old passport match those on the application. Both processes aim to streamline the renewal experience while safeguarding personal identification and travel information.

The UK Passport Renewal Application Form is another document similar to the Australian version. Like the Australian form, the UK application requires the previous passport as a reference and mandates that it has been valid for a specified duration. Additionally, the UK form also includes detailed guidelines on acceptable photographs, emphasizing clarity and specific dimensions to ensure consistency in documentation. Both applications aim to simplify the renewal process for citizens while maintaining security standards.

The Canadian Passport Renewal Application bears similarities to the Australian form, focusing on identifying applicants with previously held passports. It requires the inclusion of a recent photograph that adheres to stringent criteria, much like the Australian guidelines. This shared approach helps both countries process renewals efficiently and effectively while preventing identity fraud.

The Irish Passport Renewal Application is also comparable to the Australian passport renewal process. Applicants must provide their existing passport and submit a recent photograph. The photo guidelines in Ireland are similar to those in Australia, ensuring that the submitted images uphold a standard that aids in verification of identity and authenticity during the renewal process.

The Mexican Passport Renewal Form also shows parallels with the Australian Passport Renewal form. Both documents require the applicant's recently expired or expiring passport and mandate recent photograph submissions. Just like in Australia, the photograph requirements are detailed, emphasizing the importance of clear identification, ensuring that both countries uphold high standards for passport issuance.

The German Passport Renewal Application aligns closely with the Australian form in that it requests an applicant’s previous passport along with recent photographs. The requirements for the photos, which detail size, clarity, and specific poses, mirror those in the Australian guidelines. This continuity across forms reflects the commitment of multiple nations to protect personal identity and ensure secure travel documentation.

Finally, the Indian Passport Renewal Application has similarities with the Australian process as well. Required documentation includes the previous passport and a recent photograph, both of which must meet specific standards set forth by the Indian authorities. This uniformity in procedures across different countries highlights the global emphasis on maintaining secure and identifiable travel documentation.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Australian Passport Renewal form, here are four important dos and don'ts:

  • Do: Ensure your passport is valid and matches the specifications.
  • Do: Make an appointment if required, especially when lodging at a Passport Office.
  • Do: Provide two recent, identical photographs that comply with the outlined requirements.
  • Do: Keep your completed form safe until you can submit it to the appropriate authority.
  • Don't: Rely on a lost or stolen passport for your renewal process.
  • Don't: Forget to check the current fee and payment methods accepted for your application.
  • Don't: Use photographs that are older than six months or do not meet the specified requirements.
  • Don't: Leave your passport in unsecured locations to avoid the risk of theft.

Misconceptions

  • Only Australian citizens can renew their passports. Some may think only citizens are eligible, but legal residents may also seek guidance on specific situations.
  • The form must be submitted online. This is not true; applicants can submit their form at Australia Post outlets or relevant passport offices.
  • It’s fine to use an expired passport for renewal. An expired passport can only be used if it expired within the last five years and was valid for at least two years when issued.
  • Passports can be renewed at any time. In reality, timing is essential, especially if the travel is planned soon after submission.
  • Photograph requirements are flexible. There are strict guidelines for photos; not following them can lead to renewal delays or rejection.
  • You can submit the form without your old passport. This is incorrect; the old passport must be submitted as part of the renewal process.
  • There's no need for an appointment to submit the form. While some applications can be lodged without an appointment, others, especially those at a passport office, require one.
  • Lost or stolen passports don’t need to be reported. This is a misconception; it is crucial to report lost or stolen passports immediately to protect your identity.
  • Payment options are not important to check in advance. Understanding the accepted payment methods can save time and ensure a smooth application process.
  • The processing time is guaranteed to be ten working days. This timeframe only applies once the application is received; mailing times are additional and should be considered.

Key takeaways

  • Applicants must hold an adult Australian passport that was valid for at least two years at the time it was issued.

  • The passport must have been issued after July 1, 2000 and in the applicant's current name, date of birth, and sex.

  • Advance appointments are required for lodging forms at the Passport Office in Australia.

  • To protect against identity theft, keep your passport safe and report any lost or stolen passports immediately.

  • If renewing from outside Australia, contact the nearest Australian mission for instructions.

  • Applicants must provide two identical color photographs that meet strict specifications.

  • The Passports Office aims to issue passports within ten working days, excluding delivery time.

  • For an urgent renewal, inquire about the priority processing service, which incurs an additional fee.