How to apply for Australian passport in USA

You might need to apply for an Australian passport in USA if you’re an Australian citizen who currently resides in the US or if you recently migrated to the US. Knowing the procedure for getting a passport is crucial because it’s necessary for travel.

How to apply for an Australian passport in USA

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for an Australian passport in the USA.

1. Fill out your application online at the global website

Please note that I cannot browse the internet or access external websites. However, based on your instructions, it seems that you need to visit the official website of the Australian Passports Office at www.passports.gov.au and click on the “APPLY OR RENEW” button. From there, you will be guided to create an account on the website.

Once you’ve created your account, the website will ask you a series of questions to determine the correct application form for your situation. It’s important to answer these questions accurately to ensure you’re directed to the appropriate form.

Please keep in mind that you won’t be able to download blank application forms directly from the website. Instead, you’ll need to follow the prompts and complete the application form online as directed by the website.

2. Print your application form – check size requirements

When printing your application form, ensure that you use either US letter-size or legal-size paper. It’s important to note that A4 paper is not required for printing.

Adjust your printer settings accordingly, especially if you’re using Chrome or Firefox browsers. Look for options like “Shrink to Fit” or “Fit to Page” to ensure that the entire form is printed correctly without cutting off any information at the top or bottom.

Keep in mind that US Letter paper is smaller than A4, so double-check that nothing is cut off from the top or bottom of each page. Applications with cut-off bottoms cannot be accepted.

Ensure that you adhere to these size requirements and printing instructions to avoid any issues with your application.

3. Sign and date your form using Australian Date Format (DD/MM/YYYY) For all applications

When signing and dating your application form, please follow these guidelines:

For all applications:

Sign the applicant declaration and date it in Australian date format (DD/MM/YYYY). Declarations in US date format cannot be accepted.
Ensure your signature and date are clear, with no alterations or correction fluid.

For child applications:

Both parents must sign and date at Section 15 of the form.
Sign in front of an independent witness who is not related to you or the child by birth or marriage and does not reside in the same household.
The witness does not need to be an Australian citizen, and you do not have to use the same witness as the other parent.
Do not wait for the interview to sign Section 15. Passport staff cannot serve as witnesses.

Adhering to these instructions will help ensure that your application is processed smoothly and without any delays.

4. Obtain two passport photos

When obtaining passport photos for your application, it’s crucial to ensure they meet Australian requirements, as they differ from US passport photo standards. Discuss the specific requirements with your photographer to avoid any issues.

We provide a map of passport photographers in the United States, including online providers, where you can have your photos taken. However, we do not recommend photos taken at US pharmacies or post offices, as they may not meet our printing, lighting, and quality standards.

To prevent your application from being rejected, make sure your passport photos adhere to our guidelines. This step is essential as poor-quality photos are a common reason for application rejection.

5.Check whether to apply by MAIL or IN PERSON

Before applying for your passport renewal, it’s important to determine whether you should apply by mail or in person. Here’s what you need to know:

Applying by Mail:

Adults using the one-page PC7 Australian Passport Renewal Application form can apply by mail.
Most renewals for children 15 years and younger can also be lodged by mail.
Make sure to follow the PC7 MAIL INSTRUCTIONS or CHILD RENEWAL MAIL INSTRUCTIONS to prepare your mail application kit.
However, if your application will reach the lodging office within a week or less of your desired travel date, we do not recommend applying by mail. In such cases, it’s best to apply in person, especially if your travel plans are urgent.

Applying in Person:

If you’re planning to lodge your passport application in person, please note the following important details:

Appointment Requirement:

All applications must be lodged in person, and appointments are required.
You can schedule your appointment online with any passport office.

Types of Applications Requiring In-Person:

First-time applications, including applications to replace emergency/temporary passports.
Applications for 16 and 17-year-old children.
Applications for adults using the five-page PC8 Application for an Australian Passport Overseas form.

Child Application Process:

For child applications, it doesn’t matter whether the parent is an Australian citizen.
Children aged 16 and 17 years old must lodge in person, accompanied by one parent.
Children aged 15 years and younger are not required to attend the interview.

Preparation for the Interview:

Before your interview, ensure you review the Required Documents and go through the checklist to avoid common errors.
Check the requirements for name changes, translation of foreign documents, and guarantors for PC8 applications.

By adhering to these guidelines and adequately preparing for your in-person appointment, you can ensure a smooth and efficient passport application process.

6. Wait at least 6 weeks to receive your new passport

When applying for your new passport, please allow a minimum of 6 weeks for processing, although it may be completed sooner.

For the most up-to-date information on current printing times in Australia, you can check here: [link to current printing times].

If you have urgent travel plans and cannot wait for the standard processing time, please read our information on Urgent Travel for guidance on how to proceed.

Ensuring you allow sufficient time for processing will help avoid any last-minute stress or complications regarding your travel plans.

Conclusion

Applying for an Australian passport in the USA may seem complicated, but it’s relatively straightforward if you follow the steps outlined above. A valid passport is essential for travel, so it’s important to ensure your passport is up to date and valid for the countries you plan to visit.