Aussie passport just got more expensive

The cost of the Australian passport just got more expensive, making it the most expensive passport in the world.

If you’ve noticed the cost of an Australian passport increased — you wouldn’t be alone.

As of July 1, it went up 15 per cent, meaning those who plan on purchasing the 10-year travel document will have to pay almost $400, up from $346.

In January, the fee increased per standard inflation price indexing that occurs each year – and in the new financial year, it jumped again to exactly $398 as the federal government hiked fees.

“The increase to passport fees will support priority initiatives within the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, including the government’s efforts to modernise Australia’s passport systems and services,” a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) spokesperson previously said.

The cost of the Aussie passport has officially increased.

“It has a high level of technological sophistication, backed by rigorous anti-fraud measures, which ensures its integrity. This is a key reason why Australian passport holders currently receive visa-free access to over 100 countries.”

The Aussie travel document is now the most expensive passport in the world, according to Compare the Market’s latest research.

This is based on price, years valid and power — and surprisingly, it has the second-lowest value per visa-free country – despite its relatively high ranking in the Henley Index.

According to the Aussie company, prior to the recent fee hike, Mexico ranked first at $353.90 for its 10-year passport, while the six-year and three-year passports were fourth and ninth most expensive, respectively.

Meanwhile, passports for the United Arab Emirates, India, and Hungary were the three cheapest on the list at $27.13, $27.70 and $31.78, respectively.

Compare the Market’s executive general manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, said the study revealed the importance of keeping your travel documents safe while overseas. “Damage, loss or theft of your passport is an unfortunate risk many people face while overseas,” Mr Taylor said.

A 10-year passport will now set you back $398, up from $346.

“It is important to stay vigilant and take care of these vital documents, as even minor damage can stop you from travelling in some instances.”

Meanwhile, if you’re in need of an ‘emergency’ Australian passport, it will cost you $250. But, it’s only valid for up to 12 months and doesn’t have a chip.

“Because of this, there are restrictions on using them in some countries. Check the visa requirements of any country you plan to enter or transit,” the DFAT website reads.

Aussies needing to fast-track their passport can do so for $100 with the document processed within five business days. This is on top of the $398 fee for the 10-year passport itself.

The new option was announced in May during the federal budget with the money Aussies forecast to spend on fast-tracking their passports expected to generate an additional $27.4 million revenue over the next five years.

This excess cash will be reinvested into the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

There’s already a ‘priority processing’ option for Aussies needing their travel documents urgently, which allows them to get their hands on their passport in just two business days.

But this now costs $290, having increased from $252. This is also on top of the $398 base fee for the 10-year passport.

For more information, including how to renew your passport visit DFAT.