Traveling to New Zealand as an Australian Citizen Without an Australian Passport
Hey everyone, I could have researched this better, so I appreciate your understanding and no negative comments.
My boyfriend holds dual British and Australian citizenship. He was born in the USA to British parents and moved to Australia at 15, where he now has Australian citizenship. He has a British passport, but since we haven’t traveled abroad since he became an Australian citizen, he never got around to obtaining an Australian passport.
He’s flying to New Zealand this Thursday afternoon, and it completely slipped his mind that he needs an Australian passport or a visa. From what I’ve found online, it seems he requires an Australian passport to travel in and out of New Zealand as a citizen. Is there any way to verify his citizenship without the passport?
Thanks in advance for any assistance!
Your boyfriend’s situation is a bit tricky, but there may be options available! While it’s generally recommended for Australian citizens to travel on an Australian passport, there are a few things he can consider:
Evidence of Citizenship: He can carry documents that prove his Australian citizenship, such as his citizenship certificate or any official document that confirms his citizenship status. However, it’s important to note that airlines often require a passport for international travel.
Check with the Airline: He should contact the airline he’s flying with as soon as possible. Some airlines might allow him to present alternate documentation if they can verify his citizenship.
Apply for an Australian Passport: Although it may be challenging with the timing, if there’s any way he can expedite the process and get an Australian passport before his flight, that would be the best solution.
Visa Options: Since he’s holding a British passport, he can check if he can apply for a visa to enter New Zealand. Depending on the duration of his stay and specifics of his situation, it could be a quick process.
Seek Guidance: Reaching out to the Australian passport office for advice could also provide clarity on what his options are given his specific circumstances.
Encourage him to act quickly, as time is of the essence! Hopefully, everything works out smoothly for both of you!