Australia is gearing up for significant changes in its citizenship and passport fee structure, set to take effect from July 1, 2024.
These adjustments, recently announced by the Australian government, will impact a wide range of applicants, including permanent residents, adoption cases, and specific foreign individuals.
Citizenship Application Fees
Starting July 1, 2024, new fee schedules will be implemented across various categories:
- Standard Applications (Ages 18 to 59): Increased to $560 from $540.
- Adoption Cases – First Sibling: Increased to $360 from $345.
- Adoption Cases – Additional Siblings: Increased to $150 from $145.
Families applying for citizenship with children under 16 will benefit from exemptions, ensuring that the financial impact remains manageable during these changes.
Special Cases: Foreign Adoptions
For children adopted under the Hague Convention or bilateral agreements:
- Single Application/First Sibling: $360.
- Second and Subsequent Siblings: $150.
Renouncing and Resuming Citizenship
The fees for renouncing Australian citizenship will be $300, while resuming citizenship will cost $240.
Passport Fees
From July 1, 2024, Australians will also face increased costs for passport applications and renewals. While exact details are yet to be disclosed, these changes will apply uniformly to all applications submitted after this date.
Rationale Behind the Changes
The Australian government cites the need to streamline and modernize its immigration and citizenship systems to better manage the growing number of applications. These adjustments are part of ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and ensure that resources are adequate for processing.
Planning Ahead
For those planning to apply for citizenship or renew passports after July 1, 2024, it’s essential to factor in these fee adjustments into your budgeting and financial planning. The government advises applicants to submit their applications with the updated fees in mind to avoid any discrepancies.
As we move closer to these changes, we will continue to keep you informed about any further updates or details regarding the new fee structures. Stay tuned to our blog for more insights and information on navigating Australia’s immigration and citizenship processes.
