Australian travellers warned over high passport costs

As the winter chill hits, anyone itching for an overseas escape has been warned that if a passport needs renewing it could be a big hit to their travel budget. 

The price of an Australian passport, while granting access to a significant number of countries without the need for advance visas, is among the steepest in the world.

The standard 10-year passport now costs $412, a considerable increase since 2022, when it was $308, and priority processing fees can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost.

READ MORE: Rescued German backpacker reveals why she abandoned car in WA outback

Comparatively, citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand pay significantly less for their passports. 

American passports cost the equivalent of approximately $250, while British passports are around $224, and New Zealand passports about $229.

Despite the higher cost, the Australian passport does offer some benefits.

"The Australian passport is very powerful, it actually gives you access to around 185 countries without having to get an advance visa," Gina Norman from RAA Travel said. 

READ MORE: Secret advice calls on government to hike taxes

"So although you might be paying a higher price at the time that you get your passport, you then don't have to pay a lot of those visa costs that a lot of other countries would have to pay," she added.

Travellers have been advised to ensure their passport has at least six months left on its expiry and is in good condition, as even minor wear and tear may render it invalid. 

Renewing or applying for a passport can take up to six weeks.

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.