Everything you need to apply, renew, or replace a UK passport — step-by-step, practical, and aligned with HM Passport Office guidance. Official links are included; always double-check the GOV.UK pages just before you apply.
UK passports are issued by His Majesty's Passport Office. You can apply online (recommended) or by paper in specific cases. There are standard adult and child passports, plus expedited services: Fast Track (1 week) and Premium (one-day, renewal-only). Fees and document requirements vary by age, application route (online vs paper), and whether you're applying inside the UK or from abroad.
The exact documents depend on whether you are applying for a first passport, renewing, changing your name, or replacing a lost one. Below are typical, commonly accepted documents. Always follow the GOV.UK document guidance for your case.
| Category | Typical Documents | Notes & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Current UK passport (for renewals), UK driving licence, or other government ID | If applying for the first time, provide primary ID such as birth/adoption certificate plus supporting ID. |
| Proof of Nationality | Full UK birth certificate, naturalisation/citizenship certificate | Copies should be certified in some rare cases; originals may be requested at the passport office. |
| Photos | Two identical recent photos (online accepts digital upload — check size/format) | Follow the photo rules precisely (face size, background, no shadows). Premium/Fast Track may require stricter compliance. |
| Name Change | Marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, deed poll or statutory declaration | Ensure supporting documents cover the full legal name you want on the passport. |
| Lost / Stolen | Police report (if available), details of previous passport, identity documents | If abroad, contact the nearest British Consulate/Embassy for emergency travel documents first. |
| Child Applications | Child’s birth certificate, parental IDs, parental consent, and any court orders if applicable | Both parents/guardians may need to provide consent depending on circumstances. |
Online applications are faster, cheaper, and guide you through the required fields and photo checks. Paper forms are limited to certain cases (e.g., some first-time adult applications where identity evidence needs manual verification).
Upload required documents where asked. Digital photos must meet the UK photo standard. For paper forms, attach originals or certified documents as specified.
Pay via the online payment methods provided. After payment, you can book Fast Track/Premium appointments if eligible. Keep receipts and the application reference number.
Attend the passport office on time with originals. For standard online renewals you may not need an appointment; follow the instructions given after submission.
Replacement for lost/stolen passports can require additional checks. Report loss if applicable, and if abroad contact the British mission for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD).
When you receive your passport, verify all details immediately — name spelling, date of birth, and expiration date. Report errors to the Passport Office within the window stated in their guidance.
• GOV.UK — Apply or Renew a Passport
• GOV.UK — Passport Fees
Understand how long your application might take based on the service chosen. These are approximate times based on HM Passport Office guidance; always check GOV.UK for real-time updates.
Typically 3–6 weeks. Delays possible during peak seasons (spring/summer).
Processed within 1 week, subject to appointment availability and document verification.
Same-day service for eligible adult renewals; book early to secure slots.
Eligibility depends on your citizenship status and residency. Below is a quick guide to common scenarios.
Your UK passport is your key to international travel, but plan ahead to avoid issues.
Fees change periodically. Use the official GOV.UK pages (links below) to confirm live amounts before paying. The table below shows common fee types and approximate guidance (for planning purposes).
| Service | Typical Fee (Estimate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult standard (online renewal) | £82.50 (estimate) | Cheaper online; prices may vary by year. |
| Adult paper form | ~£90–£95 | Paper is usually slightly costlier. |
| Child passport (online) | ~£53–£60 | Valid 5 years for under-16s. |
| Fast Track (1 week) | ~£120–£160 | Appointment required; price depends on adult/child & pages. |
| Premium one-day (renewal) | ~£200 | Strict eligibility — adult renewals only. |
This checklist is intended to replicate the same structured, actionable style you used earlier — practical steps and items you must verify before hitting submit.
Standard online renewals typically take a few weeks. Timing depends on volume and whether additional checks are needed; Fast Track and Premium shorten this considerably.
No — Premium (one-day) is usually available for adult renewals only. Children use standard or Fast Track where eligible.
Contact the nearest British Embassy/Consulate. They can issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) for return travel or temporary purposes.
Generally yes — online applications tend to be slightly cheaper and quicker. Paper applications are still supported for certain cases but can cost more.
Provide legal evidence of name change such as marriage certificate, civil partnership, or deed poll. Ensure other records (bank/Affidavits) are consistent where possible.
Yes — if renewing, provide details or the previous passport where requested. For lost passports, provide as much information as you can and file a police report if necessary.
Yes — overseas applications may involve additional courier / handling fees and local appointment processes. Check the GOV.UK guidance for country-specific instructions.