How to Apply for a UK Passport
Apply online at gov.uk — renewals take about 3 weeks and first adult passports about 6 weeks. You need a digital photo meeting strict rules, and first-time or replacement applicants need someone to countersign.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UK sources(2025-Latest).
0 of 7 steps
- Before You Go 20 min
Check you have British citizenship or status
You can hold a British passport if you are a British citizen, a British overseas territories citizen, or another qualifying status. If you recently naturalised, use your naturalisation certificate. If you were born abroad to a British parent, you may need to register first.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min
Get a compliant digital photo
Take a photo with your phone against a plain, light background (no shadows, head uncovered unless religious or medical, plain expression) or get a photo code from a booth or shop. Glasses are allowed only in rare cases; the digital check rejects glare and cropped heads instantly.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min
Apply online and pay
The online form at gov.uk takes 10–15 minutes for renewals and longer for first passports. Adult renewal: £88.50 online, child: £57.50 (2025 fees). Paper applications cost £100/£69. You can save and finish later.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 1–2 days
Arrange a countersignatory if required
First adult passports (and lost/stolen/damaged replacements) need a countersignatory: a UK resident who has known you 2+ years, holds (or previously held) a British or Irish passport, and is a professional or of good standing — not a relative, not living at your address. They confirm your photo and sign digitally or on paper.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay 1 day
Send supporting documents (first passports only)
The form tells you what to post (birth or naturalisation certificate). Include a pre-paid return envelope for the original documents if you post from abroad. Renewals of undamaged adult passports usually need nothing posted.
Click to mark as done
- Wait 3–6 weeks
Track the application
Standard service: about 3 weeks for renewals, 6 weeks for first adult passports (allow 10 weeks if applying from abroad). Track progress online — HMPOHis Majesty's Passport Office — The agency that issues and renews UK passports.Click for official info ↗ no longer gives phone updates.
Click to mark as done
- Receive
Sign and store your passport
Your new passport arrives by courier or post; old passports are cancelled and returned separately. Sign it immediately. Adult passports are valid 10 years (children 5). Note: for EU travel, your passport must be under 10 years old on the day you travel and valid 3+ months beyond your return.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a passport urgently?
The 1-week Fast Track service (££, bookable by phone) covers renewals, first adult passports, and child applications. Online Premium (1-day) exists for adult renewals only. Appointments are limited — check availability before booking travel.
Can I keep my old passport while the renewal is processed?
Yes if you apply online and your old passport is undamaged — you post it only after being asked, and you can keep travelling on it until then. Cancelled passports are returned to you.
I became British through naturalisation. Is the process different?
You must attend a passport interview for your first passport and send your naturalisation certificate. The certificate is returned — do not laminate it, as HMRCHM Revenue & Customs — The UK tax authority. It collects income tax, issues National Insurance numbers, and runs Self Assessment.Click for official info ↗ and employers will need it later too.
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