Lodging a passport application

How do I lodge my passport application?

Lodge your application and pay the passport fee at a participating Australia Post outlet or an Australian diplomatic or consular mission.

In some locations, you may need to book an appointment.

Bring your application checklist or form, your photos, and whatever original documents you need.

What happens when I lodge my application?

We’ll check the original documents you’ve brought, copy them and return them to you on the spot.

We’ll check your passport photos to make sure they meet our requirements. We’ll stick the photos onto the application form (don’t try this yourself).

If the application is for a child, we’ll ask for proof of your own identity that has a photo, signature and your residential address.

We may ask you some questions to verify that the information you’ve provided is complete and correct.

You’ll have to pay the relevant passport fee. If you’re eligible, we’ll ask if you want a faster processing service. Faster processing services involves an extra fee.

Sometimes, we’ll need to contact you after you’ve lodged your application to ask more questions, request more documents or ask for new photos that meet our photo guidelines.

Can I go to a passport office rather than Australia Post?

Generally, you can only lodge your application at a passport office if you need to travel urgently for unforeseen compassionate or compelling reasons. You have to make an appointment by calling us on 131 232.

Note: We don’t accept cash payments at our passport offices. You can pay by EFTPOS, MasterCard, or Visa only.

Can I apply by mail?

In Australia, you must lodge your application in person. If you live overseas, contact your nearest Australian diplomatic or consular mission to discuss lodgement options.

Can I lodge my application online?

Going online is the easiest way to complete your application, but you still have to lodge it in person.

Why do I have to lodge in person?

Australian passports have a well-deserved reputation for security. This contributes to the visa-free access that Australian travellers enjoy in many overseas destinations.

We maintain this security by verifying the identity of every passport applicant to the highest standard. To minimise any risk of identity fraud, this means accepting applications in person only.

What if I can’t lodge in person?

If you can’t lodge your application in person because you’re physically unable to do so, call us on 131 232 or contact your nearest Australian diplomatic or consular mission to discuss options.

What if I can’t sign my application form?

If you can’t sign the application form, because you’re physically or mentally incapacitated, leave the relevant box blank. Instead you’ll have to show us either:

What if I’m lodging a child passport application?

See our special requirements for lodging a child passport application.

Why was the printed copy of my online form rejected when I tried to lodge it?

You have to print your online form in a way that meets our printing requirements. If these requirements aren't met, your application may be rejected.

I don’t speak English well. Can I get interpreting assistance when I lodge my application?

If you need interpreting assistance to lodge your passport application, you can bring a family member or a friend with you.

Professional interpreting assistance is available through the Translating and Interpreting Service TIS National at no cost to you.

If you’re deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, assistance is also available through the National Relay Service.

If you need help to arrange these services, call us on 131 232.

See also: