🇬🇧 United Kingdom

UK Passport Application

New or Renewed UK Passport

Easy ~15 min PassportTravelIdentity

/ What is this form?

Most UK passport applications are done online through GOV.UK. Adult passports are valid for 10 years, children's for 5 years. Standard processing takes up to 10 weeks — plan ahead.

First-time applicants and children need a countersignatory — someone who has known the applicant for 2+ years, holds a valid UK passport, and can confirm the photo is a true likeness.

For urgent travel, fast track (1 week) and premium (1 day) services are available at additional cost from HM Passport Office appointment offices.

/ Who needs this form?

Anyone applying for their first UK passport
Anyone renewing an expired or expiring passport
Anyone who has changed their name
Anyone whose passport has been lost or stolen

/ What you need before you start

Digital passport photo (most people take with their phone)

Old passport for renewals

Birth certificate for first applications

Countersignatory details for first applications and children

Fee: £88.50 adult / £57.50 under 16 (online)

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Apply Online

Go to gov.uk and start your application. Most applications are done online — you'll take your own digital photo.

2 Upload Digital Photo

Take a photo meeting HMPO specifications: plain background, neutral expression, no glasses, facing forward.

3 Confirm Identity (First Applications)

For first-time applicants, a countersignatory who has known you for 2+ years and holds a UK passport must verify your identity.

4 Pay and Submit

Pay £88.50 online (adult), £57.50 for children under 16. Submit and wait for the passport to arrive by post.

5 Allow Up to 10 Weeks

Standard processing takes up to 10 weeks. Don't book flights until you have your passport.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
Countersignatory	Full name and passport number of someone who has known you 2+ years and has a valid UK passport.	Using a family member — countersignatories must not be a close relative.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Applying too close to the travel date — allow 10 weeks for standard processing.

Photo not meeting requirements — the most common reason for delays.

Booking flights before receiving the passport.

/ Frequently asked questions

What are the fast track options?

1-week Fast Track service: £177. 1-day Premium service: £212.50 (appointment at Passport Office required, for genuine emergency travel).