How to Apply for a British Passport

To apply for British passport you must first hold British nationality.

However, holding British citizenship does not guarantee you will be issued a British passport. Your eligibility and circumstances will be assessed as part of the application process. Reasons for rejection could include for example any bail conditions or court orders you are subject to.

British passports remain the property of the UK Government and can be cancelled or withdrawn at any time.

 

Who Needs to Apply for a British Passport?

 

A British passport is an essential document for UK citizens who wish to travel abroad, providing both proof of identity and citizenship. It is required for international travel and is often used as a secure form of identification within the UK. Determining whether you need to apply for a British passport depends on your circumstances, including whether you are applying for the first time, renewing an existing passport, or replacing one that has been lost or stolen.

First-time applicants typically include individuals who have never held a British passport. These individuals must prove their citizenship through supporting documents such as a full UK birth certificate or a certificate of naturalisation. British citizens born abroad may need to provide additional evidence, such as parental citizenship details, to confirm eligibility.

Renewals apply to those who have an existing passport that is about to expire or has expired within the last ten years. It is recommended to renew well in advance of planned travel, as processing times can vary. For those whose passports have been lost or stolen, a replacement application must be submitted with additional documentation explaining the circumstances.

Parents or guardians must apply on behalf of children under 16, and there are specific rules for children’s passports, such as shorter validity periods. Dual nationals may also need to apply for a British passport if they wish to exercise rights linked to their British citizenship.

 

Becoming a British citizen

 

To be eligible to apply for a British passport, you must hold British citizenship There are different ways to attain or become a British citizen. The most common is called ‘naturalisation’.

The application for British citizenship requires:

 

• You must have been in the UK for 6 or more years
• During your time in the UK, you must have been working, self-employed, or a student ie exercising your Treaty Rights
• You must meet the residence requirements, which include an assessment of your absences from the UK and where you intend to live after making the application
• You will need to pass the Life in the UK Test
• You also need to pass an approved English Language Test
• You must meet the ‘good character’ requirement, for example, you must have no recent or serious criminal convictions, you must not be bankrupt, or associated with those considered to have ‘bad character’

 

 
Once you have attained British Citizenship, you are permitted to proceed with an application for a British passport.

If you are applying for your first British passport, you should expect to have to attend an interview and answers questions to verify your identity.

Note also that securing British nationality will not guarantee you a British passport, if certain circumstances apply.

 

How to Apply for a British Passport

 

Whether you are applying for the first time, renewing an expired passport, or replacing a lost or stolen one, the steps involved are straightforward if followed carefully:

 

Choose Your Application Method

 

Applicants can choose between an online or paper application. Online applications are typically faster and more convenient, allowing you to complete and submit the form digitally. For those who prefer a paper application, forms can be obtained from the Post Office or requested from the Passport Advice Line. Both methods require the same supporting documents and photographs.

 

Prepare the Required Documents

 

Before completing the application, gather all the necessary documents to support your application. This includes proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and any additional documents needed for specific circumstances, such as name changes or parental consent for children’s passports. Ensure all documents are originals and meet the passport office’s requirements.

 

Complete the Application Form

 

The application form requires accurate personal details, such as your name, address, date of birth, and contact information. For first-time applicants or those with special circumstances, additional sections may need to be completed. Double-check all information to avoid errors that could delay the process.

 

Submit Photographs

 

Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the government’s specifications. Photos must be clear, taken against a plain background, and conform to size and quality standards. If applying online, digital photo uploads are accepted as long as they meet the same criteria.

 

Pay the Application Fee

 

Application fees vary depending on the type of passport and processing method chosen. Payment can be made online or by post, depending on how you apply. Ensure the correct fee is paid, as incomplete payments will result in delays.

 

Submit Your Application

 

Once the form, documents, photographs, and payment are ready, submit your application. Online submissions are instant, while paper forms should be sent to the address provided, using tracked mail for security. Keep copies of the application reference number or receipt for tracking purposes.

 

Documents Required for a British Passport

 

Applying for a British passport requires careful preparation to ensure all necessary documents are provided. These documents are essential for verifying your identity, citizenship, and eligibility.

All documents must be originals unless otherwise specified by the passport office. Copies or digital scans are not accepted unless explicitly requested.

 

Document Type	Examples	Purpose
Proof of Citizenship	– Full UK birth certificate – Certificate of naturalisation or registration – UK adoption certificate	Verifies the applicant’s status as a British citizen.
Proof of Identity	– Previous passport – UK driving licence – National ID card (if applicable)	Confirms the identity of the applicant.
Parental Documents	– Parents’ birth certificates – Parents’ passports (if applicant was born abroad)	Establishes eligibility for applicants born abroad.
Name Change Documents	– Marriage or civil partnership certificate – Deed poll certificate	Supports name changes that differ from birth records.
Photographs	– Two recent passport-sized photos meeting official standards	Required for the physical passport.
Supporting Documents (if applicable)	– Court orders (e.g., for child custody) – Home Office letters confirming immigration status	Provides additional evidence for specific cases.

 

 
Most importantly, proof of citizenship is required. This may include a full UK birth certificate, a certificate of naturalisation or registration, or other official documentation proving British citizenship. Applicants born abroad to British parents may need additional documents, such as their parents’ birth certificates or passports, to confirm eligibility.

Proof of identity is another key requirement. Applicants must provide a current form of identification, such as a previous passport, national ID card, or driving licence. For first-time applicants, supplementary documents may be needed, such as marriage or civil partnership certificates, to support name changes.

Photographs must also meet strict standards set by the passport office. The photo must be a recent, high-quality image that meets size, background, and pose requirements. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could lead to the photo being rejected, delaying the process.

 

British Passport Referees

 

When applying for a British passport, certain applications require a referee to confirm the applicant’s identity. A referee acts as an independent person who knows the applicant and can verify their details, adding an extra layer of security to the process.

A referee must meet specific criteria set by HM Passport Office. They must have known the applicant personally for at least two years and be able to verify that the photograph submitted accurately represents the individual. Referees must also be British citizens, over the age of 18, and hold a current British or Irish passport. Certain professionals, such as teachers, doctors, and accountants, are commonly accepted, although the full list of acceptable professions is outlined in the government guidelines. Relatives and individuals living at the same address as the applicant cannot act as referees.

The referee is required to complete a section of the passport application form. For online applications, they will receive a secure link via email to confirm their details and answer specific questions about the applicant. For paper applications, they must sign the back of one passport-sized photograph and include a declaration that they know the applicant and the information is correct.

Referees must be honest in their statements, as providing false information is a legal offence that can lead to penalties. It is important that they feel confident in verifying the applicant’s identity and details.

When selecting a referee, applicants should choose someone who meets the eligibility criteria and is willing to take on the responsibility. It is courteous to inform the referee in advance and provide them with all the necessary information, such as the applicant’s full name and the purpose of the application. For online applications, ensuring the referee has access to their email and understands the process is essential.

 

What happens at the passport interview?

 

If you are over 16 and are applying for your first British passport, you should expect to be asked to attend an interview with the Identity & Passport Service (IPS).

The purpose of the passport interview is to minimise identity fraud. Applicants are required to answer questions relating to personal information to verify your identity.

The interview typically lasts 30 minutes.

 

How long does the passport application process take?

 

British passports are typically processed and issued in 3 weeks. This may take longer if more information is needed or you are required to attend an interview.

The processing time starts from when we receive your documents.

Fast-track British passport services are available for a fee. These services apply to passport renewals, replacements and child passport applications but are not usually available for first-time adult applications. The 1-week Fast Track service and Online Premium service are not applicable to first-time adult passport applications, as these require more extensive checks. However, they are available for renewals, replacements, and certain other applications, such as those for children.

 

How to track your British passport application

 

Once you have submitted your application for a British passport, it is natural to want to know its progress. Tracking your application ensures you remain informed about its status and can address any potential issues quickly. The UK government provides straightforward ways to track both online and paper applications, offering reassurance during the waiting period.

 

Tracking an Online Application

 

If you applied online, tracking your application is simple. Upon submission, you will receive a unique application reference number. This reference allows you to log in to the online portal provided by HM Passport Office. Using the portal, you can check whether your application has been received, is being processed, or if a decision has been made. Notifications are often sent to your registered email address to keep you updated throughout the process.

 

Tracking a Paper Application

 

For paper applications, tracking begins with the postal service. Sending your application via tracked delivery ensures you can confirm when it has been received by HM Passport Office. After receipt, the reference number provided in your application pack or confirmation letter allows you to track its progress by contacting the Passport Advice Line.

 

Dealing with Delays or Queries

 

If there are delays or queries related to your application, contacting the Passport Advice Line is the best course of action. Be ready to provide your reference number and personal details to assist staff in locating your application. Common reasons for delays include incomplete forms or missing documents, so ensure all requirements are met before submission.

 

How much does a British passport cost?

 

The costs for British passports are as follows:

 

Application type	Apply online	Apply by paper form
Adult (16 and over) standard 34-page passport	£88.50	£100
Adult (16 and over) 54-page frequent traveller passport	£100.50	£112
Child (under 16) standard 34-page passport	£57.50	£69
Child (under 16) 54-page frequent traveller passport	£69.50	£81
Passport for people born on or before 2 September 1929	Free	Free

 

British passport application fees vary if you are applying from overseas.

 

How do I apply for a child’s British passport?

 

Any child up to the age of 16 not already on a parent’s passport must hold their own passport. A child passport usually lasts for five years and the holder may continue to use it after they have reached the age of 16 and until the passport expires.

 

Renewing vs. applying for a new British passport

 

It is important to determine whether your situation requires a passport renewal or a new application. While both involve obtaining a valid British passport, the circumstances and requirements for each differ significantly. Applying incorrectly may lead to delays or even rejection. Reviewing your current passport’s status and the relevant requirements will help ensure you choose the right path.

 

Renewing a British Passport

 

Renewal applies when an existing passport is nearing expiry or has expired within the last ten years. The process is generally more straightforward, as the applicant’s citizenship and identity have already been verified. When renewing, you will need your existing passport, recent passport-sized photographs, and the completed application form. If your details, such as your name, have changed since your last passport, supporting documents like a marriage certificate or deed poll certificate will be required. Renewing in advance of expiry is recommended, particularly if travel is planned, as processing times can vary.

 

Applying for a New Passport

 

A new application is necessary for first-time applicants or when a passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use. The requirements are more comprehensive, as additional documents will be needed to establish citizenship and identity. First-time applicants, for example, must provide a full UK birth certificate or a naturalisation certificate, along with supporting identification documents. Those replacing a lost or stolen passport must also include a written explanation of the circumstances, which may lead to additional checks.

 

Apply for British passport FAQs

 

Who can apply for a British passport?

British citizens, British Overseas Territories citizens, and certain other categories of British nationals are eligible to apply. Applicants must provide proof of citizenship as part of the process.

 

How long does it take to process a passport application?

Standard applications usually take 3 weeks. Fast-track services are available for quicker processing, though they come at an additional cost.

 

What documents are required for a first-time application?

First-time applicants need to provide proof of citizenship, proof of identity, recent passport photos, and any additional supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate for name changes.

 

Can I apply for a passport online?

Yes, online applications are available and often faster. Applicants fill in the form digitally, upload their photo, and pay the fee online.

 

What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?

You must report the loss or theft to HM Passport Office immediately and apply for a replacement. Additional security checks and supporting documents may be required.

 

Can children apply for their own passports?

No, applications for children under 16 must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian, including proof of parental responsibility.

 

Glossary

 

 

Term	Definition
British Passport	An official travel document issued to British citizens, serving as proof of identity and citizenship.
First-Time Applicant	An individual applying for a British passport for the first time.
Renewal	The process of applying for a new passport to replace an existing one that is expired or about to expire.
Proof of Citizenship	Documents such as a full UK birth certificate, naturalisation certificate, or adoption certificate used to confirm British citizenship.
Proof of Identity	Documents such as a previous passport, driving licence, or national identity card used to confirm an applicant’s identity.
Passport Photo	A recent photograph meeting specific size, background, and quality standards required for passport applications.
Referee	A person who confirms the applicant’s identity and supports their passport application.
Online Application	A method of applying for a passport via the UK government’s digital portal.
Paper Application	A traditional method of applying for a passport using a physical form obtained from the Post Office or Passport Advice Line.
Fast-Track Service	A premium service offering quicker processing times for passport applications, usually at an additional cost.
Lost or Stolen Passport	A situation requiring a new application with an explanation of the circumstances and additional security checks.
Passport Advice Line	A support service provided by HM Passport Office to assist applicants with queries and tracking applications.
Application Reference Number	A unique number assigned to each passport application, used for tracking progress and correspondence.
HM Passport Office	The UK government agency responsible for processing passport applications and issuing British passports.