If your last passport was issued a long time ago you may not be able to just renew it
Brits planning a holiday this year “must” apply for a vital travel document if their previous one was issued before a certain date. If your passport is over 32 years old, it might not be possible to do a standard renewal.
Passports are a requirement when travelling abroad. In the UK, a standard adult passport is valid for 10 years after you buy it.
When your passport reaches its expiry date you can simply renew, either online or via a postal application. However, if your last passport is much older, you may not be able to renew.
On GOV.UK it explains that if your passport was issued before January 1, 1994 you must apply for a “first adult passport”. It says: “You must also apply if your last UK passport was issued before 1 January 1994.”
This means you will need to submit full supporting documentation, such as your original birth certificate to prove citizenship. If you do not have your original certificates, you need to get an official copy.
This is due to the fact that if your passport was issued before 1994 it is likely the blue hardback version, which was replaced by burgundy machine-readable passports in the late 1980s and early 1990s. You cannot renew using the old passport number on these documents, unlike newer ones.
For more information on how to apply for a first adult passport, visit the Government website here.
Passport renewals
If your passport was issued more recently than 1994, you will be able to renew it. Renewals are needed if the expiry date is approaching or if the passport is damaged.
The HM Passport Office will consider a passport damaged if:
- You cannot read any of your details
- Any of the pages are torn, cut or missing
- There are holes, cuts or tears in the cover
- The cover is detaching
- There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)
Regarding your passport’s expiry date, the requirements will differ depending on where you’re going. Some countries insist on at least six months remaining on your passport upon arrival, while others only require three.
For a full breakdown of passport requirements by country, visit the Government website here.
Renewing a passport online
To apply online, head to the Government website here. Key requirements include a digital photograph, a valid payment method (credit or debit card), and your existing passport if you’re renewing.
Furthermore, applicants must supply proof of their identity and citizenship. The application fee for adults stands at £102, while children’s passports are priced at £66.50.
For anyone requiring assistance with the online application, local Post Office branches provide support services. Their staff are able to:
- Take your digital photo
- Help with completing the online application
- Be mindful that this service carries an extra charge.
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Postal applications
Paper passport applications are available from your local Post Office. Keep in mind that postal applications generally take longer to process than online ones.
They’re also more expensive than online applications, setting you back £115.50. You’ll be required to submit a completed application form alongside your supporting documents, two photographs, and the relevant fee.
Post Office staff can assist in making sure your form is properly completed – though you’ll need to supply your own photos. Payment can be made using cash, debit or credit cards.
Fast-track applications
If the standard three-week processing period is cutting it too close with your holiday plans, several quicker options are available for securing a passport. According to the Government website: “You can pay to get a passport urgently if you think the standard service will take too long.”
To take advantage of these fast-track services, you’ll need to secure an appointment at a passport office:
- The same-day premium service carries a charge of £239.50 (or £253.50 for the 54-page frequent traveller passport)
- The one-week express service costs £192 for an adult passport (or £206 for the 54-page frequent traveller passport), and £156.50 for a child’s passport (or £170.50 for the 54-page version)
For further information, visit the Government website here.
