UK passport renewal: how long it takes, cost and how to apply

You can renew a UK passport online or by post, and the safest plan is to apply well before you need to travel, because processing times vary and you cannot rely on a quick turnaround. The government publishes the current fees, processing times and rules on GOV.UK, and these change from time to time, so always check the official site before you apply. This guide explains the general process, the main costs to expect, how long it can take, whether you can renew online and what to do if you are travelling soon. It is general information, not legal advice.

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How much does it cost?

The fee depends on the type of application, such as adult, child, online or paper, and on any extra services you choose. Fees are set by the government and can change, so check GOV.UK for the current prices before you apply. As a general rule:

Online applications are usually a little cheaper than paper applications.
Child passports usually cost less than adult passports.
Faster services, such as fast track or premium, cost extra.
If you use a high street checking service, there may be a separate charge.

Budget for photo costs as well, particularly if you use a booth or shop. Some people use a phone photo for online applications, as long as it meets the official rules.

How long does it take?

Official guidance advises allowing plenty of time, and processing can take several weeks. It can take longer at peak times such as spring and summer, so avoid leaving it until the last minute. Postal applications and applications with problems, such as incorrect photos or missing documents, can take longer.

As a rule, apply as soon as you know you will need a renewal. Many travellers check their passport expiry date as soon as they start planning a holiday. Some countries require a minimum remaining validity on arrival, and rules differ between destinations, so check the entry requirements for your destination on the government travel advice pages.

Can I renew online?

In most cases, yes. Adults who are renewing a standard UK passport can usually apply online through the official service. You will normally need a digital photo, a way to pay and details from your current passport. Some situations, such as a lost or damaged passport or a change of name, may require different steps or a paper form. Always start from GOV.UK and be wary of unofficial websites that charge extra fees for the same service.

Check the application is on the official GOV.UK website.
Have your current passport and payment card ready.
Use a photo that meets the official rules.
Keep a note of your application reference.

What if I am travelling soon?

If you need a passport quickly, the government offers faster services in some circumstances, and these usually cost more. Check the official site for the latest options, appointment availability and eligibility. If your trip is very close and the timing is tight, consider contacting the airline or tour operator about options such as changing dates.

It is also wise to protect your booking. Our travel insurance guide explains what cancellation cover can and cannot do, because many policies do not cover a trip you cannot take because your passport was not ready. If you are still choosing a trip, our last minute holidays guide has tips for booking at short notice, once your documents are in order.

Common reasons applications are delayed

A photo that does not meet the official requirements.
Missing or incorrect supporting documents.
Name or date of birth mismatches between documents.
Using the wrong form or an unofficial website.
Peak season demand.

Taking a little extra time to check every detail before you submit can save weeks of delay.

Checking your passport before you book a holiday

Before you book any trip, look at the expiry date and the issue date of your passport. Some destinations require several months of validity beyond your planned return date, and some have rules about how old a passport can be. The foreign travel advice pages on GOV.UK list the entry requirements for each country. If you plan a holiday in Europe, check the current entry and passport rules for the destination as these can change. For ideas on where to go once your passport is ready, see our guide to city breaks.

Renewing a child passport and other special cases

Child passports have different rules and often shorter validity, and applications may need a parent or guardian to provide extra details. If you are changing your name, correcting details or replacing a lost, stolen or damaged passport, the process is different, so use the official guidance for your situation. If you live abroad, there are separate routes. When in doubt, start at GOV.UK and follow the steps for your circumstances.

Documents to check before you travel

A valid passport is only one part of getting ready to travel. Depending on where you are going, you may also need to check visa or electronic travel authorisation requirements, health documents and proof of onward travel. Entry rules change, so use the official government travel advice for your destination close to your departure date, rather than relying on old information. Keep digital copies of your passport details and booking confirmations in case of loss, and consider leaving a copy with someone you trust.

Protecting your passport

Once you have your new passport, keep it somewhere safe and avoid carrying it unnecessarily while you travel. Many travellers use a hotel safe and carry a copy instead. If a passport is lost or stolen abroad, report it to the local police and contact the nearest British embassy or consulate for guidance. Having copies of your documents and your insurance details to hand makes the process easier.

Planning your next trip

Once your passport is sorted, you can start choosing where to go. If you want inspiration for a short trip, our guides to weekend breaks from Brighton and UK holidays have ideas for destinations that do not need a long lead time.

Frequently asked questions

Can I travel with an expired passport?

No. You need a valid passport to travel, and many countries also require some validity remaining. Check before you book.

Do I need to send my old passport?

In most renewals you send your old passport back as part of the application, but follow the official instructions for your situation.

Is it safe to use a third party service?

Official services are available directly from the government. Third party sites may charge extra, so make sure you understand what you are paying for.

Can I track my application?

The official service usually allows you to check progress with your reference. Check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.

When should I renew?

Check your passport expiry date as soon as you plan a trip and allow plenty of time before you travel.

Planning ahead so passport renewal does not disrupt your travel

The best way to avoid passport stress is to check your passport as soon as you start planning a trip, not as you pack. Look at the expiry date, check the entry rules for your destination and allow plenty of time for a renewal. Official processing times can vary and change, so check the official government website for current guidance rather than relying on old information.

A simple checklist

Check the expiry date on every passport in your party.
Check destination rules on remaining validity, which can differ by country.
Apply for renewals early, particularly before peak travel seasons.
Keep a digital copy of your passport in a safe place.
Avoid booking non-refundable travel until your passport is sorted if there is any doubt.

Passport photos and common mistakes

Applications can be delayed by simple errors, such as photos that do not meet the official requirements, incomplete forms or missing supporting documents. Read the official guidance carefully, use a photo that follows the rules and double check your details before you submit.

What to do if you spot a problem

If you find an error on your passport, if it is damaged or if you have lost it, check the official government website for the correct process. Do not delay, as fixing a problem can take time, and it is better to deal with it well before you travel.

Travelling soon with an old passport

If your passport is close to expiry, consider whether you can travel on it and whether you should renew anyway. Some countries require several months of validity, and airlines can refuse boarding if documents are not in order. See official government travel advice for your destination for current entry requirements.

Link between passports and your holiday planning

Passport checks fit neatly alongside the rest of your holiday planning. Once your documents are sorted, you can concentrate on choosing where to go. See our guides to last minute holidays and city breaks, and consider travel insurance to protect your booking.