Embassy & Consular Services

Visas
A visa is a form of permission for a non-citizen to travel to, enter, transit or remain in a particular country. A visa does not guarantee entry, that decision remains the right of the immigration officials of the country concerned.

Some countries ask visitors to present return tickets and evidence of funds sufficient to cover the intended stay. Others have compulsory currency exchange regulations on entry. Some refuse entry to visitors who do not comply with requirements regarding general appearance and clothing, or visitors who are HIV positive.

There are many different types of visas available and travellers should ensure they obtain the correct visa for their intended stay. The validity and type of visa issued must be strictly adhered to. Failure to depart the country by the due date may result in a fine and future problems with authorities

Only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their visa requirements. Remember that deportation is at the traveller's expense

To find details of Embassies and Consulates in Australia (there may be more than one for each country) see:

some visa forms are obtainable from the internet.
Go to our Visa Links page.

You may need to know the whereabouts of your nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or Honorary Consul on your travels overseas ... they can assist with issuing another passport if yours is stolen, or certain legal matters, should you some into trouble whilst abroad. For further details on what they can do for you ...

To find the details for Embassies/Consulates abroad for Australia:

Australians travelling overseas are subject to the visa regulations of the host country, even where such regulations may appear harsh or unjust. The immigration laws of most countries do not have provision for appeal. The Australian Government is unable to intervene in any cases in which an Australian has been refused a visa or denied entry.

Many governments require Australians and other nationals to have an appropriate visa endorsed in their passport before entry into the country is permitted. Australians are advised to ensure that they obtain all appropriate visas, including transit visas where these are required, prior to their departure from Australia. Information on visas or other travel authorisations required to visit foreign countries may be obtained from the the relevant consulate or embassy.

Passport Validity
Australian travellers should be aware that many countries require travellers to have at least six months validity remaining on their passports. Immigration authorities may refuse entry to Australians arriving with less than this. Travellers may need to renew their passport before they travel.

Obtaining and renewing Australian passports: