The Australian Government has released the updated Australian passport application fees, which officially came into effect on 1 January 2026. As part of the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment, the cost of applying for or renewing an Australian passport has increased once again.

Australia already ranks among the countries with the highest passport fees globally, and this latest revision reinforces that position.

Updated Australian Passport Fees for 2026

Below are the current passport and travel document fees applicable from 1 January 2026. All amounts are in Australian dollars (AUD).

Passport Application Fees

• 10-year adult passport (16 years and over): $422
• 5-year child passport (under 16): $213
• 5-year adult passport (75 years and over): $213
• Replacement passport: $265
• Emergency passport (issued overseas): $265

Additional Service Charges

Depending on how and where you apply, extra charges may apply:

• Priority service (2-business-day processing): $308
• Fast-track service (5-business-day processing): $107
• Overseas surcharge – adult passport: $189
• Overseas surcharge – child passport: $92
• Post-issue observation added to passport: $22

Other Travel Documents

• Document of Identity: $112
• Certificate of Identity: $265
• Convention Travel Document: $265

What’s Changed in 2026?

The most noticeable change is the increase in the 10-year adult passport fee, which now stands at $422, up from $412 in 2025. While the increase itself is relatively small, it adds to the long-term upward trend in passport costs.

For families, overseas applicants, or those needing urgent processing, the final amount payable can be significantly higher once additional service fees and surcharges are included.

Why Australian Passports Cost More

Passport fees are reviewed annually and adjusted in line with CPI. However, Australia has consistently remained at the higher end of the global cost scale—particularly for adult passports with 10-year validity. This continues to be a point of discussion when compared with other developed countries.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying

• If your passport is nearing expiry, apply early to avoid paying extra for urgent processing.
• Applicants lodging from overseas should budget for overseas surcharges in addition to the base passport fee.
• Australian passports are generally applied for after citizenship is granted, so future citizens should include this cost when planning their overall migration journey.

Paying Your Passport Fee in Australia

If you apply within Australia, the passport fee must be paid when lodging your application.

• Applications submitted through Australia Post usually accept EFTPOS, major credit cards, and cash.
• Applications lodged at an Australian Passport Office accept card payments only.

Once processing has commenced, passport fees are non-refundable.

Paying from Overseas

Applicants lodging their passport application outside Australia will usually pay the equivalent fee in the local currency of the country where the application is lodged.

Payment methods vary by location, so it’s recommended to check directly with the embassy, high commission, or consulate before attending your appointment. An overseas surcharge may apply on top of the standard fee.

📍 Summary — What This Means for You

While the annual CPI increase may seem minor, Australian passport costs remain among the highest internationally. Planning ahead, both in terms of timing and budgeting, can help avoid unnecessary costs and last-minute stress.

📍 Source:

Australian Passport Office