Australian Embassy
United Arab Emirates

Frequently Asked Questions

 Frequently Asked Questions

 

How long will it take to for me to receive my new passport?

Allow a minimum of six weeks to get a new passport or renew your old one.

But remember, while most passports are being processed in less than six weeks, some are more complex and take longer.

If you’re likely to travel in the next six months – for example, during the upcoming Christmas/New Year holiday period – you should apply or renew now.

Do I still need to register with the embassy if I am traveling to or residing in the UAE?

We no longer ask you to register your trip with us, instead you can subscribe to receive travel advice and alerts to the destinations you are travelling to and through.

Subscribing gives you the latest updates to our travel advice and news.

We strongly encourage you to subscribe so you’re well-informed for your trip overseas.

What can the Australian Government do for me if I get in trouble overseas?

We may provide assistance to Australians overseas, in line with the Consular Services Charter

Can I apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate?

The Department of Home Affairs at the Dubai Consulate-General no longer processes Australian visa applications. The Australian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Australian Consulate-General in Dubai will not respond to enquiries regarding visa matters.

If you are seeking information on which visa to apply for please see: Explore visa options

You can lodge an online visa applications via ImmiAccount

Should you require assistance with your visa application, you may wish to consider engaging a Registered Migration Agent.  For more information go to: Using a migration agent

If you are required to provide biometrics, you will receive a formal request by email. You will need to book an appointment at the nearest Australia Biometrics Collection Centre, managed by VFS Global: Australian Biometric Collection Centres

To check the status of your visa application, or to contact the Department, please refer to the information at Contact us.

To find information regarding other related services available in your country, such as the nearest Australian Biometric Collection Centre or panel physician, you can select a country on the following web-page: Offices outside Australia.

How do I make an appointment?

You can schedule an appointment for passport or notarial services through our online booking system at the Australian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Australian Consulate-General in Dubai.

 Do I need a visa to visit the UAE?

Australian passport holders are eligible to receive a tourist visa on arrival in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Diplomatic and official passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling.

 What is the difference between the Authentication of documents and Certifying copies of documents?

 Authentication of a document or issue of an Apostille is a legalisation service. Authorised officers legalise a document by verifying the signature, seal or stamp on an original public document and affixing an Authentication or Apostille certificate. An Apostille can only be issued when the country receiving the public document is signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention.

Certification of documents is when an authorised officer makes a copy of an original document and certifies that it is a true copy of the original document presented to them.

How do I renew my Australian driver's licence overseas?

The Australian Embassy and Consulate-General in United Arab Emirates does not renew driver's licences. You will need to contact the relevant State Government Licence issuing Authority in Australia to obtain the necessary forms to renew your licence while residing overseas, which may need to be witnessed by a Consular Officer. If this is required by the Licensing Authority, you will need to attend our offices in person, bringing along the form, and whatever other documents the Licensing Authority requires by way of proof of identity. Please follow the below link, relevant to your State or Territory.