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Content Overview

The Australian Passport Renewal form serves as a critical tool for Australian citizens aiming to renew their passports under specific conditions. To be eligible for renewal using this form, adults or the guardians of child applicants must present a passport that was initially valid for at least two years, issued after July 1, 2000, for adults, and after July 1, 2005, for children 16 years and older, and must reflect their current name, date of birth, and sex. An important stipulation is that the applicant's passport must be produced at the time of renewal; failure to do so renders the renewal process inapplicable. Those looking to renew need to lodge their application in person, preferably at an Australia Post outlet within the country, or through the nearest Australian mission if abroad. Payment methods and acceptable currencies vary by location, signifying the importance of verifying these details in advance. The commitment to a ten-day processing window, apart from delivery and application reception times, with options for expedited service, underscores the efficiency aimed for in the renewal process. Furthermore, the safeguarding of one’s passport is emphasized to prevent identity theft and illegal use, urging immediate reporting of lost or stolen documents. The mandatory submission of two identical, recent color photos meeting specific requirements is highlighted to ensure the integrity and security of the travel document, reflecting the stringent standards maintained for official identification.

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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)

Form Specifications

Fact Detail
Eligibility for Renewal Applicant must have an adult Australian passport issued after July 1, 2000, valid for at least 2 years and issued in their current name, date of birth, and sex or a child Australian passport with similar conditions.
Appointment Requirement Appointments are essential for lodging forms at a Passport Office in Australia. Visit www.passports.gov.au for criteria.
Lost or Stolen Passports If your passport is lost or stolen, it must be reported immediately to protect your identity and avoid illegal use by others.
Contact Information For questions, comments, or complaints, contact the Australian Passport Information Service at 131 232 or visit www.passports.gov.au.
Travel Advice Check the latest travel advice at www.smartraveller.gov.au before travelling.
Lodgement and Payment Applications should be lodged in person at an Australia Post outlet in Australia or at an Australian mission overseas. Payment methods vary by location.
Photograph Requirements Two identical colour photos not older than six months, showing a frontal view of the face, with specific dimensions and quality standards are required.

Australian Passport Renewal: Usage Guidelines

When the time comes to renew an Australian passport, a specific procedure must be followed to ensure a smooth and error-free submission. This process is essential for all Australian citizens who meet the renewal criteria, aiming to update their travel document. The renewal form requires careful attention to detail, from providing accurate personal information to ensuring the correct photos are submitted. Following these steps methodically will facilitate a quicker processing time, allowing you to receive your renewed passport without unnecessary delays.

  1. Make sure you meet all the criteria for using the renewal form: you must have an adult or child Australian passport that was valid for at least 2 years when issued, issued after either 1/7/2000 (for adults) or 1/7/2005 (for children), was issued in your current name, date of birth, and sex, and you were 16 years or over at the time of issue (if renewing a child passport).
  2. Prepare two identical colour photos of yourself that comply with the strict guidelines provided. The photos must be recent (no more than six months old), appropriately sized (35-40mm in width and 45-50mm in height), and meet all other listed requirements for background, facial expression, and framing.
  3. Obtain the passport that matches the number printed on the top of page 2 of the renewal form as it needs to be provided with your application.
  4. If lodging your renewal in Australia, plan to submit your application in person at an Australia Post outlet. It’s wise to phone ahead to make an appointment. If you’re renewing from overseas, contact the nearest Australian mission for specific instructions.
  5. Review the payment options and prepare the necessary form of payment. Preferred methods in Australia include EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash, as cheques are not accepted. If applying overseas, verify the payment details with the Australian mission.
  6. Contact the Australian Passport Information Service on 131 232 if your current or recently expired passport was lost or stolen, as this requires a different form and process.
  7. Double-check your filled-out form and accompanying documents/photos to ensure all details are accurate and all necessary criteria are met. This pre-emptive step can help avoid delays in the processing of your renewal application.
  8. Lodge your application as per the instructions based on your location (within Australia or overseas), ensuring you've made an appointment if necessary and have all required documents and payment ready.

Adhering to these steps will streamline the passport renewal process. Remember, the Australian Passport Office is committed to issuing travel documents within ten working days from the time they receive your application, excluding delivery times. However, if an expedited service is necessary, enquire about the priority processing service for a faster turnaround at an additional cost. Preparing diligently and following the specified guidelines will contribute to a successful renewal submission, paving the way for your future travel plans.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I renew my Australian passport using the renewal form?

You can use the renewal form if you are an Australian citizen aged 18 and over and your previous Australian passport was valid for at least 2 years when issued, issued after July 1, 2000, in your current name, date of birth, and sex. Children who received their passport after July 1, 2005, having been 16 years or older at the time of issue, can also use this form for renewal provided it meets the same conditions.

What if I cannot present my passport at the time of renewal?

If you cannot present your passport at the time of renewal, you cannot use the passport renewal process. Instead, you will need to apply for a new passport by completing an entirely new Application for Australian Passport form.

How should I lodge my Australian passport renewal application?

If renewing within Australia, lodge your renewal application in person at an Australia Post outlet, and it may be necessary to phone ahead to make an appointment. If you are outside Australia, contact your nearest Australian mission to find out how to lodge your application.

What are the preferred methods of payment for the renewal fees?

In Australia, the preferred methods of payment are EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash (cheques are not accepted). Applicants renewing their passport overseas should check with the nearest Australian mission for details on acceptable payment methods and currencies.

How long does it take to process the passport renewal?

The Passport Office is committed to processing and issuing a travel document within ten working days, excluding delivery times. If a quicker turnaround is required, inquire about priority processing, which has a two working day turnaround time, though an additional fee is charged.

What are the photograph requirements for the passport renewal?

Applicants must provide two identical color photographs that are no more than six months old, be between 35mm and 40mm in width, and 45mm to 50mm in height. The photos must show the individual facing the camera directly with a neutral expression, mouth closed, and no head coverings unless worn for religious reasons. Glasses must not obscure the eyes, and there should be no shadows across the face. Photos should be on high-quality paper with a plain light-coloured background.

Common mistakes

  1. One common mistake is not ensuring eligibility before starting the process. Applicants must satisfy specific criteria, such as having an adult Australian passport issued after 1/7/2000 or a child Australian passport issued after 1/7/2005, both valid for at least 2 years when issued. Failing to meet these prerequisites can result in a rejected application.

  2. Applicants often overlook the appointment requirement for lodging their forms at a Passport Office in Australia. It’s essential to make an appointment if you meet the criteria for an in-person submission.

  3. Misunderstanding the lodgement process leads to errors, such as attempting to lodge at incorrect locations. The renewal form clarifies that applications should be lodged in person at an Australia Post outlet within Australia or through the nearest Australian mission if overseas.

  4. Another mistake is not presenting the passport that matches the number printed on the form. This oversight can delay or disrupt the renewal process.

  5. Choosing improper payment methods constitutes a frequent error. In Australia, preferred payment methods include EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, and cash. Cheques are not accepted, and payment specifics can differ overseas.

  6. Expecting a passport within an unrealistic timeframe is a common misunderstanding. The Passports Office aims to issue a travel document within ten working days, excluding delivery times. Applicants overlooking this may not allocate sufficient time for the process.

  7. Not requesting priority processing when needed is an oversight. For those requiring faster service, ignoring the option for a two working day turnaround, for which an additional fee is charged, can be a critical mistake.

  8. Forgetting to immediately report lost or stolen passports is a serious mistake. It’s vital to report any such incident right away to prevent identity theft or misuse.

  9. Confusion about photograph requirements leads to many errors. The photographs must meet strict criteria regarding size, quality, and the applicant’s appearance. Non-compliant photos can cause application delays or rejections.

  10. Ignoring travel advisories issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is another mistake. Failing to check the latest travel advice at www.smartraveller.gov.au can result in unforeseen complications during travel.

Documents used along the form

When renewing an Australian passport, various forms and documents are commonly used alongside the renewal application to ensure the process runs smoothly and efficiently. These additional forms and documents serve distinct purposes, such as confirming the applicant's identity, supporting name changes, or detailing the circumstances of a lost or stolen passport.

  • Application for Australian Passport Overseas: This form is used by Australian citizens applying for a passport outside Australia. It accommodates those who may not meet the renewal criteria and are applying for their first passport or replacing a lost/stolen passport while abroad.
  • Parental Consent Form (PC8): When a passport is being applied for a child, this form is necessary to ensure all those with parental responsibility consent to the passport being issued.
  • Birth Certificate: A crucial document for first-time applicants or those who cannot renew their existing passport. It is used to verify the applicant's place and date of birth.
  • Citizenship Certificate: For individuals who were not born in Australia but have acquired Australian citizenship, their citizenship certificate supports their passport application or renewal.
  • Change of Name Document: If an applicant has changed their name since their last passport was issued, a legal document such as a marriage certificate or a name change certificate from the Australian Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages is required.
  • Photo Identification: A secondary form of photo identification, such as a driver’s license or a student ID, helps confirm the identity of the passport applicant.
  • Lost or Stolen Passport Notification Form: This form is crucial if the reason for the passport application is due to it being lost or stolen. It ensures the lost or stolen passport is deactivated to prevent fraudulent use.
  • Death Certificate: In cases where a passport application involves handling the estate of a deceased person, the death certificate of the passport holder may be required to cancel the passport officially.
  • Proof of Travel Plans: Although not always required, proof of impending travel may be necessary under certain circumstances, such as when expedited processing of the passport application is requested.

These documents play pivotal roles in the passport application and renewal process, supporting the assertions made in the Australian Passport Renewal Form. Whether validating the applicant's identity or detailing a name change, each document enriches the application, ensuring the integrity and security of the issuance process. Understanding and preparing these documents ahead of time can significantly streamline the renewal process, leading to a smoother, more efficient experience.

Similar forms

  • The U.S. Passport Renewal Application (Form DS-82): Similar to the Australian Passport Renewal form, the U.S. version requires current passport details, personal information, and updated photos that meet specific criteria. Both forms cater to citizens seeking to renew their passports, emphasizing the need for clear, current photographs and detail about the existing passport. Both processes offer expedited services for an additional fee.

  • Driver's License Renewal Form: This form, used for renewing a driver's license in many countries, including the U.S., shares similarities with the Australian Passport Renewal form in verifying personal identity. Applicants must provide current identification details and, often, updated photographs. Both forms focus on confirming the identity of the individual through structured criteria.

  • Voter Registration Update Form: Similar to updating personal details for passport renewal, this form requires individuals to update their information based on changes in their name, address, or other personal details. Both forms ensure individuals' records are current, reflecting any changes in personal circumstances or identification details.

  • Lost or Stolen Passport Report Form: This document shares the emphasis on protecting one’s identity found in the Australian Passport Renewal form's section on lost or stolen passports. Both documents are crucial in the process of safeguarding individuals’ identities and personal information, urging immediate action and offering guidance on how to proceed in the event of a lost or stolen document.

  • Travel Visa Application Form: Similar to passport renewal applications, visa applications require detailed personal information, including current passport details, personal identification, and sometimes updated photographs. Both are integral in international travel procedures, ensuring travelers' identities are accurately recorded for border security and immigration purposes.

Dos and Don'ts

When renewing your Australian passport, understanding the dos and don'ts can make the process smoother and increase your chances of a speedy return of your new passport. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you along:

Do:

  • Ensure your passport qualifies. It must have been an adult Australian passport issued after 1 July 2000, valid for at least 2 years, and in your current name, date of birth, and sex.
  • Make an appointment if required. For renewal in Australia, appointments at Australia Post outlets are necessary. If abroad, contact the nearest Australian mission.
  • Present your current passport. You must provide the passport that corresponds with the number at the top of page 2 of the renewal form.
  • Follow the photo requirements precisely. Supply two identical color photographs that adhere strictly to the specified dimensions, quality, and style.
  • Check the preferred payment methods. In Australia, payments are accepted via EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash. Overseas, consult the nearest Australian mission for acceptable payment methods and currency.
  • Report a lost or stolen passport immediately. Use the dedicated form for lost or stolen passports and inform the Australian Passport Information Service or the nearest overseas mission promptly.

Don't:

  • Attempt to renew if your passport doesn't match the criteria. This includes passports issued before 1 July 2000, or those not in your current name, date of birth, or sex.
  • Ignore appointment requirements. Failing to make an appointment where necessary can lead to delays or inability to lodge your application.
  • Submit outdated or non-compliant photos. Photos older than six months, or not meeting the required specifications, can cause your application to be rejected.
  • Forget to check your payment options. Cheques are not accepted in Australia, and payment options may vary overseas.
  • Overlook reporting a lost or stolen passport. Not reporting can lead to unauthorized use and complicate the replacement process.
  • Provide incorrect contact details. Accuracy in your application ensures you receive all necessary communication regarding your passport renewal.

Misconceptions

Several misconceptions surround the Australian Passport Renewal form and its process. Understanding these can clarify the renewal process, ensuring it is smooth and straightforward for Australian citizens.

  • Misconception: Any Australian citizen can renew their passport using this form.
    Truth: Only Australian citizens who meet specific criteria, such as having a passport that was valid for at least 2 years when issued, can use the renewal form. This passport must have been issued after certain dates, and in the applicant's current name, date of birth, and sex.

  • Misconception: Appointments for lodgment are not necessary.
    Truth: Appointments are essential for lodging forms at a Passport Office in Australia. Applicants should visit the official website to determine if they need to schedule an appointment based on their criteria.

  • Misconception: If a passport is lost or stolen, it can still be renewed.
    Truth: If your passport is lost or stolen, you cannot use the renewal process. Instead, you must complete an Application for Australian Passport: Adult form to replace it and report the loss or theft immediately.

  • Misconception: Payment methods are the same worldwide.
    Truth: Preferred methods of payment vary depending on where you are renewing your passport. In Australia, EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, and cash are accepted, but cheques are not. Applicants renewing their passport overseas should check with the nearest Australian mission for acceptable methods and currency of payment.

  • Misconception: The turnaround time for issuing a passport is always 10 working days.
    Truth: While the Passports Office is committed to issuing a document within ten working days, this does not include the time taken for the Passport Office to receive the application or the delivery time. For a faster turnaround of two working days, a priority processing service is available for an additional fee.

  • Misconception: Photographs do not need to meet specific requirements.
    Truth: The renewal form requires two identical colour photographs that meet detailed requirements, including size, quality, background, and the subject's expression and positioning.

  • Misconception: Digital photos are acceptable for the application.
    Truth: Photos must be of high quality, printed on high-quality paper, and should not have any ink or marks on the image. Digital photos must be printed and cannot be directly uploaded or sent for the renewal application.

  • Misconception: All senior citizens get a discount on the passport application fee.
    Truth: A seniors' passport, which is valid for 5 years and available at a lower fee, is only applicable to those aged 75 or over.

  • Misconception: You can renew your passport at any time before it expires.
    Truth: If you cannot present your passport at the time of renewal, you cannot use the renewal process. This implies the necessity of having your current or recently expired passport at hand for renewal.

Accurate information can demystify the renewal process, making it more accessible for eligible Australian citizens needing to renew their passports.

Key takeaways

When renewing an Australian passport, understanding the process and requirements is crucial. Here are key takeaways to ensure a smooth renewal:

  • Eligibility requirements are specific; your adult Australian passport must have been valid for at least two years when issued, issued after July 1, 2000, and in your current name, date of birth, and sex to use the renewal form.
  • Appointments at a Passport Office in Australia are essential for certain applicants. Check the criteria on www.passports.gov.au to see if this applies to you.
  • Protecting your identity is paramount. Lost or stolen passports can facilitate illegal activities under your name. Always keep your passport in a safe place.
  • For any queries or to offer feedback, contact the Australian Passport Information Service at 131 232, visit the website, or write to the Passport Operations Section.
  • Before travelling, ensure to check the latest travel advisories at www.smartraveller.gov.au.
  • The lodgment of your renewal application, if in Australia, should be in person at an Australia Post outlet.
  • Preferred payment methods in Australia include EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa, or cash. Check with the nearest Australian mission for acceptable payment methods and currencies if applying overseas.
  • The Passport Office aims to issue travel documents within ten working days, excluding delivery times.
  • If your passport is lost or stolen, report immediately and complete an Application for Australian Passport: Adult form to replace it.
  • Photo requirements are strict; provide two identical color photographs that meet all specified criteria, including size, quality, and presentation.

Remember, the information provided must accurately match your current legal documents, and failure to comply with photo requirements or application details can delay the process.