In 2026, Australia continues to hold the position as the country with the highest passport fees in the world. To obtain a standard 10-year passport, citizens must pay up to 422 AUD (equivalent to over 300 USD).

This cost is approximately 40 times higher than Vietnam’s passport fee, which surprises many when making comparisons.

Why is the Australian passport so expensive?

According to experts, the high cost of Australian passports is due to several factors:

• Annual inflation adjustments: The Australian government automatically increases passport fees based on the Consumer Price Index
• Advanced anti-counterfeiting technology: Passports are equipped with modern security features
• Global citizen support: 24/7 consular assistance for citizens overseas

These factors keep Australia’s passport fees significantly higher than the global average.

Comparing passport fees: Australia vs Vietnam

In Vietnam, the fee for a standard passport is currently around:

• 200,000 VND for a 10-year passport

Other countries with relatively low passport fees include:

• Brazil (around 35 USD)
• India
• Spain
• South Korea

The significant cost differences reflect variations in government policies and levels of investment among countries.

Is the Australian passport worth it?

Despite the high cost, the Australian passport is considered one of the most powerful in the world, offering:

• Visa-free access to approximately 182 countries and territories
• Convenient international travel
• High levels of trust and security

This leads many to believe that the high cost is justified by its value.

Global trend: Rising costs, declining passport power?

Globally, passport fees are trending upward over time, while the number of visa-free destinations for some passports is showing signs of decline. This is an important trend for frequent international travelers.

Advice for international travelers

Experts recommend that when traveling abroad, individuals should:

• Purchase travel insurance to mitigate risks
• Prepare for situations such as lost or damaged passports

In many cases, the cost of travel insurance is significantly lower than the expense of replacing a passport and handling paperwork overseas.

The large gap between Australian passport fees and Vietnam’s highlights differences in policy and investment between countries. While Australia’s fees are among the highest globally, the value offered by its passport is widely considered worthwhile.

Understanding passport costs and associated risks can help individuals and travelers better prepare for international trips.

Source: Australian Embassy