With the New Year soon to be upon us, you may be looking to travel abroad for the first time. Our handy guide will help explain the process of applying for your first passport. We are also going to cover slight changes to the process if you’re applying for a renewed passport or a replacement one.
Make sure that you keep an eye on when your passport is due to expire. An adult passport is only valid for 10 years. You wouldn’t want to set off on holiday without one! You should allow up to 6 weeks for your first passport to be processed and up to 3 weeks for your renewed passport. You shouldn’t plan any travel that requires a passport until your passport has been sent to you.
Photo by: shaunwilkinson/Fotolia
If you have an upcoming trip, check that your passport will be valid for the duration. Some countries require a set length of passport validity beyond the end of your trip. You should check the specific requirements of the country you’re planning to visit. One way to check is by visiting the Foreign and Commonwealth website and selecting the country you’re visiting. Click to view the entry requirements of that country and read the section titled ‘Passport validity’.
There are some handy passport guides and explanations on the Gov.UK website, along with the online application process should that be the way you wish to apply for your passport.
What do I need to apply for my first passport?
Firstly, you’ll need to tackle the application form for your passport. Simply fill out this form online then print and send it. Alternatively, you can collect one from your local Post Office, or call the Passport Adviceline on 0300 222 0000 who will send a form to you.
You will also need two identical passport photos and official documents (such as your birth certificate). If the original documents weren’t written in English or Welsh, copies will not be accepted unless certified.
You can use a digital photo with your application if you renew your passport online. If you wish to renew by post, you’ll need two new identical hard copy photos to send.
If you’re applying for your first passport, one photo and your form will need to be countersigned. You’ll also need to do this if your original passport was lost or stolen, or if you’re renewing and you cannot be recognised from your current passport photo.
The countersignatory can’t be related to you by birth or marriage, must have known you for at least 2 years, and hold a passport of their own.
How much does a passport cost?
It costs £72.50 for a 32-page adult passport and £85.50 for a 48-page passport. A child’s passport costs £46.
If you’re renewing or replacing an existing passport, this will cost £72.50.
The Post Office offers a Check and Send service which costs £9.75. Complete the paper form given to you by the Post Office. They will check the documentation and the fees due to reduce the chance of the application being rejected. You cannot use this service if you have completed your form online.
If completing your application online, you must pay by credit or debit card. You can pay in cash if taking your form to a Regional Passport Office or if using the Check and Send service. Cheques are only accepted with postal applications.
Photo by: Brian Jackson/Fotolia
What happens when I send my application off?
The HM Passport Office will contact you when they have received your form in order to arrange an interview at a local passport interview office. This will last around 30 minutes and you’ll be asked questions to confirm your identity. Once satisfied, they will process your application and send your passport to you by Royal Mail or courier.
You will also have to attend an interview if you’re requesting a new passport following your current one being lost or stolen.
Your supporting documents will be sent back to you 2nd class or by secure delivery for an extra charge of £3 (you can request this on your form).
Need further support applying for a passport?
If you need further support when completing your application form, contact the Passport Adviceline on 0300 222 0000 or visit your local Post Office.
Written by Jessica Juby.
Make sure you follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest travel tips and news.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Want our blogs emailed direct to you? Sign up below to get updates featuring our blogs and car hire top tips. Receive the best deals on car hire straight to your inbox.
