Consular services
Ordinary passports: what to know before lodging an application in Australia
A passport that expires just before the flight date is very common. Knowing in advance how to lodge and what to prepare helps you avoid having to postpone your trip.
Which type the Embassy issues
According to the Embassy's guidance page, from 1 April 2026 applicants can choose a passport with or without a chip, and the two types are equally valid. To get the chip version you must attend in person to have your photo and fingerprints taken, and children under 14 cannot yet be issued this type. Applications sent by post receive a non-chip passport.
Where and how to lodge
You can book an appointment to lodge in person through the Embassy's booking page, or send your application by post if you live far away. The Embassy is in Canberra and is open from 9:15 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday. See the full guide on the Passport service page.
Prepare in advance
- Check the expiry date of your current passport against the date you plan to fly.
- Gather your identity documents according to the list on the procedure page.
- Have your photo taken to the specifications the Embassy requires.
- If your documents are in English, ask in advance whether a translation is needed.
How TNT Global helps
We help you put together a document list, check your application, translate when needed and plan the timing to fit your flight. If lodging requires you to be in Canberra in person, we will tell you so from the start.
Need help with this?
Tell us what you need. We reply by email with options and costs.
