What happens to Australian visa when passport is renewed?

Passport Renewed, Australian Visa Intact? Here’s What You Need To Know

Renewing your passport is a common occurrence, but what happens to your Australian visa? The good news is, renewing your passport doesn’t automatically invalidate your existing Australian visa. However, there are important considerations depending on the type of visa you hold.

For most visa holders, your visa remains valid until its official expiry date, even after you’ve obtained a new passport. This means you can continue to use your visa for the purposes it was granted. However, the crucial difference lies in how you present your travel documents when entering Australia. You must present both your old passport (containing the visa) and your new passport to Australian immigration officials upon arrival. Failure to do so could result in delays or complications at the border. Think of it as providing a complete travel history to the authorities.

Imagine this scenario: You’re travelling to Australia on a tourist visa stamped in your old passport. You renew your passport before your trip. You must carry both your old passport (with the visa) and your shiny new passport. Immigration officials will need to see the visa to confirm your legal entry.

This “two-passport” rule is vital to remember. Keep your old passport safe and readily accessible throughout the duration of your visa. Don’t discard it until the visa officially expires.

Important Exception: Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs)

This process differs significantly for those travelling with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Unlike visas physically affixed to a passport, ETAs are linked electronically to your passport details. Therefore, renewing your passport invalidates your ETA. You will need to apply for a new ETA before travelling to Australia. This is a straightforward online process, but it’s crucial to allow sufficient time for processing before your departure.

In summary:

• Visas in passports: Remain valid until expiry, but require presentation of both old and new passports upon entry to Australia.
• Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs): Become invalid upon passport renewal and require a new application.

Always check the specifics of your visa and confirm the required documentation well in advance of your travel. Contact the Australian Department of Home Affairs or your nearest Australian embassy or consulate if you have any questions or uncertainties. Proper preparation will ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival in Australia.