Passport renewal in United Kingdom
How to renew a passport — how it works anywhere
Renewing a United Kingdom passport involves submitting an application online or via paper form to HM Passport Office. The process requires a digital or physical photograph and the return of the existing passport to be cancelled and replaced.
It is generally recommended to begin the renewal process at least 6 to 10 weeks before planned travel. This allows sufficient time to account for variations in processing speeds and high seasonal demand, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments or application approvals.
Start 70 days ahead
Standard processing times can fluctuate based on current application volumes; 10 weeks is the official service standard often cited for non-urgent renewals.
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The process
- 1Prepare a new digital or physical passport photo that meets the official UK government guidance.
- 2Complete the application through the official gov.uk website or obtain a paper form from a Post Office.
- 3Pay the relevant application fee online or via cheque.
- 4Send the old passport to HM Passport Office if required by the application instructions.
- 5Receive the new passport via secure courier or post.
What to bring
- The existing passport
- Digital or physical passport photographs
- A debit or credit card for payment
- Any relevant change of name documentation (e.g., marriage certificate or deed poll), if applicable
Who handles it
HM Passport Office (Her Majesty's Passport Office)
https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport
The fee is typically £88.50 for a standard online application, but applicants should confirm the current pricing on the official gov.uk website as fees are subject to government updates.
What commonly goes wrong
- Providing photos that do not meet the strict lighting, expression, or background requirements.
- Failing to ensure that personal details on the application match those held by the passport authority exactly.
- Using unofficial websites that claim to assist with applications but charge additional service fees.
- Forgetting to include the old passport when requested, which will delay the processing of the new document.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 70 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.