How to Renew an Indian Passport in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are an Indian citizen residing in Australia and your passport is about to expire, you must renew it through VFS Global, the official service provider authorized by the Indian High Commission and Consulates. This guide outlines the steps, required documents, and important details for renewing your Indian passport in Australia.

Step 1: Check Eligibility for Renewal

You can apply for passport renewal if:

• Your passport has expired or will expire within the next 12 months.
• You are an Indian citizen living in Australia with valid legal status.
• Your passport is undamaged and has no major changes in personal details (if changes are required, additional documents may be needed).

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

1. Visit the Passport Seva Portal.
2. Create an account or log in.
3. Select “Apply for Ordinary Passport” and choose the renewal option.
4. Fill in your details and submit the form online.
5. Download, print, and sign the completed application form.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Mandatory Documents

• Printed passport application form (signed).
• Current Indian passport (original and photocopies of first and last pages, visa pages, and endorsements).
• Proof of Australian legal status (Visa Grant Notice, VEVO printout, or Australian PR/Citizenship certificate if applicable).
• Proof of Australian address (utility bill, bank statement, driving license, lease agreement, or any official government document).
• Two passport-size photographs (as per VFS Global specifications).

Additional Documents (if applicable)

• Name Change: Notarized affidavit, marriage certificate, or gazette notification.
• Lost/Damaged Passport: Police report and affidavit.
• Address Change: Proof of new Indian address.

Step 4: Submit Application Through VFS Global

VFS Global processes passport renewals on behalf of the Indian Consulate. You can submit your application in two ways:

1. In-Person Submission

• Book an appointment at your nearest VFS Global center via VFS Global Australia.
• Visit the center with your documents and submit your application.
• Provide biometrics if required and collect the tracking receipt.

2. Courier Submission

• Mail your completed application and documents to the VFS center.
• Include a prepaid return envelope for passport delivery.

Step 5: Pay the Fees

Fees vary based on the type of passport and processing time. Payments must be made online via the VFS Global portal.

Service Type	Processing Time	Fee (AUD)
Regular Passport (36 pages)	4-6 weeks	$118
Jumbo Passport (60 pages)	4-6 weeks	$157
Tatkal (Expedited) Service	7-10 days	$310
Courier Service	Additional	Varies

Step 6: Track Your Application

You can track the status of your application using:

• The tracking number provided by VFS Global.
• The VFS tracking portal.
• Email or SMS updates (if opted for during application submission).

Step 7: Receive Your Renewed Passport

Once your passport is ready, you can:

• Collect it in person from the VFS center (if chosen).
• Receive it via courier if you opted for mail delivery.

Important Notes

• Start Early: Apply at least six months before expiry to avoid travel disruptions.
• Lost or Stolen Passport: File a police report and submit additional documents.
• Emergency Travel: Use the Tatkal service for urgent processing.
• Stay Updated: Check the VFS Global and Indian High Commission websites for any policy changes.

Conclusion

Renewing your Indian passport in Australia is a structured process managed through VFS Global. By following the steps outlined above—completing the online form, gathering necessary documents, paying fees, and submitting your application through VFS—you can ensure a smooth renewal experience. For the latest guidelines, always refer to the official VFS Global Australia and Indian High Commission websites.