Passport and Travel Visa Information

Do I need a passport to travel overseas?

Yes. To travel internationally, all countries require foreign nationals to be in possession of a valid passport. Many countries require your passport to have six months' validity from your return date.

If you lose your passport overseas, contact the Australian embassy or consulate in that country immediately so that they can arrange a replacement. You won’t be able to leave the foreign country without the official document.

How do I apply for a passport?

In Australia, you can apply or renew for a passport at most Australian Post outlets around the country. Some post offices require you to make an appointment in advance for a passport interview.

At the interview, you will need the completed application form (which you can download online); two new color photographs that fulfil the requirements of a passport photo (which can be taken at Flight Center retail stores); an original document that proves you’re an Australian citizen such as a birth certificate, citizenship certificate or a passport that is about to expire; an original identity document such as a driver’s license, and the application fee (currently $244AUD for adults).

ePassports

All Australian passports issued after 2005 are ePassports and feature an integrated circuit or chip. This chip stores your name, sex, date of birth, nationality, passport number and passport expiry date. For travelers, this chip helps prevent identity fraud and also facilitates a streamlined immigration process.

ePassport holders should head directly to the SmartGate after you disembark the aircraft when returning to Australia. This is a self-process passport control. The system will compare your image with the photograph saved in the chip for a seamless immigration experience, so you can immediately proceed to customs. 

How do I use SmartGate?

Step 1

Place your ePassport into the reader and answer the standard declarations using the touch screen. The kiosk will issue you a SmartGate ticket.

Step 2

Insert your SmartGate ticket.

Step 3

Look at the camera so that your face can be compared to your ePassport photo.

Step 4

Retrieve your ticket. When the gates open, proceed to the baggage hall.

Step 5

Collect your luggage and go to the Customs and Border Protection check-point. Hand in your SmartGate ticket and Incoming Passenger Card.

Do I need a visa to travel overseas?

Depending on diplomatic relations, some countries require Australians to obtain a tourist visa either prior to arrival or at the point of entry. Visas allow holidaymakers to remain in that country for a specific period of time.

Always check with the country's consulate or embassy regarding whether you need a visa, and confirm the travel conditions of the visa. For countries that don't require a visa, there is usually a specific period of time that you are permitted to stay in that country.

Visas can be arranged either online or by submitting the appropriate documentation in person at the consulate or embassy. Some countries charge a fee to obtain a visa. Ensure that you have the appropriate currency to pay for the visa if you choose to obtain the visa at an embassy or on arrival at your destination. 

Check and apply for a visa online

You can easily check whether you require a visa and apply online at VisasDirect. VisasDirect is Flight Center's trusted portal for visa applications, with more than 50 years experience and a secure online process. 

Visa requirements for Australians traveling overseas

For Australians traveling overseas, here is a chart of popular countries and their tourist visa requirements. The visa situation can change quickly, so it's important to check with the appropriate embassy prior to departure.

Visas are the responsibility of travelers. The information below is to be used as a guide only.