If you’re an Australian citizen living in the United States, applying for an Australian passport is a straightforward process. In this article, we will guide you through the steps required to obtain an Australian passport in the USA.
Before applying for an Australian passport, you must ensure that you are an Australian citizen. If you were born in Australia or have an Australian parent, you are likely to be eligible for citizenship. If you are unsure, you can check your eligibility by contacting the Australian government’s Department of Home Affairs.
How to apply for Australian passport in USA
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
To apply for an Australian passport, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Your current, valid Australian passport (if you have one)
- Two recent, identical passport photos that meet the Australian passport photo requirements
- Proof of your identity (such as a birth certificate or driver’s license)
- Proof of your Australian citizenship (such as an Australian citizenship certificate or an Australian birth certificate)
- A completed passport application form (Form PC8)
- Payment for the passport fee
Step 2: Complete the Passport Application Form
You can download the passport application form (Form PC8) from the Australian Passport Office website. The form can be completed online, printed, printed, and completed by hand.
Make sure that you complete the form accurately and provide all the required information. If you make a mistake, cross it out and write the correct information next to it.
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Step 3: Get Passport Photos Taken
You will need two recent passport photos that meet the Australian passport photo requirements. The photos must be identical, and they must be taken within the last six months. You can have your photos taken at a participating Australia Post outlet or a professional passport photo studio.
The Australian passport photo requirements are:
- The photos must be in color.
- The photos must be 35mm x 45mm in size.
- Your face must be in the center of the photo and must take up 70-80% of the frame.
- Your face must be fully visible, with no hair or accessories covering it.
- The background must be plain white or light-colored.
- You must have a neutral expression and a closed mouth.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have completed your application form and gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application. You can submit your application in person at an Australian Passport Office, an Australian Consulate, or an Australia Post outlet that offers passport services.
If you are submitting your application in person, you must make an appointment in advance. You can book an appointment online on the Australian Passport Office website.
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If you are submitting your application by mail, you must send your application and supporting documents to the Australian Passport Office in Australia. You can find the address on the application form.
Step 5: Pay the Passport Fee
You will need to pay a fee to obtain your Australian passport. The fee varies depending on the type of passport you are applying for and the processing time you choose. You can pay the fee by credit card, money order, or bank check.
Step 6: Wait for Your Passport to be Processed
After submitting your application and paying the fee, you will need to wait for your passport to be processed. The processing time can vary depending on the type of passport you are applying for and the processing time you choose.
If you need your passport urgently, you can request an expedited processing time for an additional fee. You can also track the status of your passport application online on the Australian Passport Office website.
Step 7: Collect Your Passport
Once your passport has been processed, you can collect it in person at an Australian Passport Office, an Australian Consulate, or an Australia Post outlet that offers passport services. You will need to bring identification with you when you collect your passport. This can include your driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
If you are unable to collect your passport in person, you can authorize someone else to collect it on your behalf. This person will need to bring a letter of authorization signed by you and their own identification.
It’s important to note that you should not make any travel plans until you have received your passport. Processing times can vary, and you don’t want to risk missing your travel plans because your passport hasn’t arrived yet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying for an Australian passport in the USA is a straightforward process that involves gathering the required documents, completing the application form, submitting your application, paying the fee, and waiting for your passport to be processed.
By following these steps, you can obtain your Australian passport and enjoy the benefits of Australian citizenship, whether you’re living in the USA or traveling the world.