Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
To renew a child’s passport in the UK, a parent or person with parental responsibility normally applies through the official government service, supplies a suitable photo and pays the fee. Fees, processing times and photo rules are set by the government and change from time to time, so always check gov.uk for the current figures rather than relying on a third-party site. As a general rule, apply well before you travel, allow extra time during busy seasons, and check passport validity requirements for your destination. This guide explains the typical process and the common questions parents ask.
How much is a child passport renewal?
The fee for a child passport is set by the government and is usually lower than the adult fee. Because fees are updated periodically, we do not quote a figure here. Check the official gov.uk passport fees page for the current price. A few points to keep in mind:
- Online applications are typically cheaper than paper applications.
- Fast-track or premium services, where available, cost extra.
- Be wary of unofficial websites that charge a service fee on top of the government fee. Use the official government site.
- Photo costs are separate. Photo booths and shops charge different prices.
If you are budgeting for a family trip, our cheap holidays guide covers other costs worth planning for.
What photo is needed?
Passport photos must meet strict rules, and photos that do not comply can be rejected, which delays your application. For children, the rules are generally similar to those for adults, but there are some differences for younger children. In general:
- The photo must be recent and a clear, close-up image of your child’s face and top of shoulders.
- Your child should be facing forward with a plain expression and their mouth closed, although the rules for babies and very young children are more relaxed. Check the official guidance.
- The background must be plain, light-coloured and free of shadows.
- No hats, hair covering the eyes, or items such as dummies or toys in the photo, apart from exceptions for religious or medical reasons.
- No red-eye, glare or reflections.
- Photos for online applications can be digital, but they must meet the quality requirements.
Check the official photo guidance before you apply. For younger children, taking the photo at home with a plain background can be simpler than a booth, but the image must still meet the standards.
How long does it take?
Processing times vary depending on demand, the application method and whether any extra checks are needed. The government publishes current guidance on how long to allow, and it is often longer in busy periods such as spring and summer. We recommend you:
- Apply as early as possible, ideally several months before you travel.
- Check the current processing times on gov.uk before you apply.
- Avoid booking non-refundable travel until you know your passport will arrive in time.
- Consider a fast-track option if you need the passport urgently and it is available.
If you are travelling soon, our last minute holidays guide explains how to plan trips at short notice, while still checking that travel documents are in order.
Who signs the form?
A parent or person with parental responsibility usually makes the application and confirms the details. The exact requirements, including who needs to sign or give consent and what supporting documents are needed, depend on the type of application and your family circumstances. Check the official guidance for current rules, particularly if:
- Your child’s other parent is not applying or is not around.
- Your child lives with someone who is not a parent but has parental responsibility.
- Your child’s name or details have changed since the last passport.
- You are applying from abroad.
Some applications, such as first-time applications, may need a countersignature or further documents. The online service should guide you through what you need.
How long is a child passport valid?
Passports issued to children are typically valid for a shorter period than adult passports. Because the rules can change, check gov.uk for the current validity period when you apply.
Check the destination rules before you travel
Different countries have different entry rules, including how many months of validity must remain on the passport on the day you arrive and the day you leave. Check the official travel advice for your destination and ask your airline or tour operator if you are unsure. Do not assume that any remaining validity is enough, especially for non-UK destinations or when travelling to the EU. Our city breaks guide and UK holidays guide give ideas for trips, but always confirm entry requirements.
What if my child’s passport has expired or is lost?
If a passport is lost, stolen or damaged, follow the official process for reporting it and applying for a replacement. If it has expired, you can usually renew it using the standard service. Check the official guidance for what you need to supply and any extra evidence required.
Tips to avoid delays
- Use the official government website and avoid unofficial third-party services that charge extra.
- Follow the photo rules carefully to avoid rejection.
- Gather your documents before you start, including your child’s current passport.
- Double-check names, dates of birth and addresses before you submit.
- Keep an eye on your email and post for any requests for more information.
- Apply early, especially before school holidays.
Travel insurance and other preparations
Once your child’s passport is sorted, check the rest of your travel plans, including travel insurance, health cover and hire cars. Our travel insurance guide explains what to look for, and our car hire guide helps with transport on arrival.
Planning ahead for a family trip
Renewals can take longer than expected, especially in busy periods, so apply well before you plan to book flights or pay non-refundable deposits. Check your child current passport expiry date and the entry rules for your destination, since some countries need passports valid for a set period after you arrive.
Keeping the process simple
- Gather documents before you start, including the old passport.
- Check the photo rules carefully, as incorrect photos are a common reason for delays.
- Make sure the person completing the form uses the correct details.
- Keep a note of your application reference.
- Do not post original documents unless instructed to do so.
What if you travel before the new passport arrives?
Do not assume you can travel on the old passport while the new one is processed. Check the official guidance for what is allowed. If you have urgent travel plans, look at the fast-track options available on the official site.
Travelling as a family
Alongside passports, check travel insurance and any other documents you need, such as consent letters if only one parent is travelling. Our travel insurance guide covers what to look for in a family policy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew a child’s passport online?
In most cases, yes, through the official government service. Check gov.uk to confirm that your circumstances are covered.
Do babies need a passport?
Yes, babies need their own passport to travel abroad, and the photo rules for babies are a little more flexible than for older children. Check the official guidance.
Can I use my child’s old passport photo?
Not normally, because the photo must be recent and meet current standards. Take a new photo for each application.
Can I travel while my application is being processed?
You will need a valid passport for international travel. Check the official guidance on whether you can keep your current passport while you apply and how to avoid being without one.
What if my child’s appearance changes?
Children change quickly. If your child looks very different from the photo in their passport, you may want to renew early. Check the official guidance on when a new photo is required.
Is a child passport valid for the EU?
Check the validity rules for your destination before you travel, as requirements for remaining validity can apply. Consult the official travel advice for current details.
Final thoughts
Renewing a child’s passport is straightforward if you use the official service, follow the photo rules and apply early. Because fees, validity periods and processing times change, always confirm the current details on gov.uk before you apply or book travel.
Does my child need their own passport on a family trip?
Generally yes, children need their own passport to travel abroad. Check the rules for your destination.
What if the names on tickets and passports do not match?
Make sure names on bookings match the passport exactly, and contact the airline promptly if something is wrong.