Here's everything you need to know about passport renewal. (2023)

As summer approaches, many need to renew their passports before heading off to their dream destinations.

From the renewal process to passport costs, we have everything you need to know.

How to renew a passport

If you're planning to pack your bags and head off to a dream destination, the first thing to check is whether you needrenew your passport.

There are two reasons why you might need to do this - yourThe pass has expired, or you don't have time for it anymore.

It is important to note that the time it takes to obtain a passport varies depending on the country you are visiting.

You can check the entry requirements of your chosen destinationHere.

It's also important to know that you can still travel with arotate passthat says "European Union" on the front - as long as it's valid.

With that in mind, the next step is to request a passport renewal – and see how.

There are two ways to renew your passport - online andthrough a paper form.

Both are priced differently and differ in how they are completed.

First, we explain how to renew a passport online.

Gather the relevant documents needed

The first step is to gather all the necessary documents to complete the online form.

This includes a digitalPhoto, a credit or debit card and your current passport.

Find the form and fill in the questions

To find the form, just go to the government website and type "passport renewal".

You will be directed to the relevant page which will provide you with clear instructions.

You will find a green button that says "Renew online" - click here and the online form will appear.

You will be guided through the form and asked to answer a series of questions.

upload digital photos

After answering the first few questions, you will be asked to upload your photos.

You can do this by going to a photo shop or photo booth, having your photos taken, and opting in to receive a code.

Once you have a code, just enter it into your app and the photo will appear on your screen.

You can also use the digital sending optionphoto taken at home.

You need someone to help you take the photo with a camera, smartphone or tablet.

All submitted photos must meet the required requirements and be counter-signed if necessary.

pay securely

Once all questions are answered and your passport photos are uploaded, you will be guided to securely submit a method of payment.

You can do this with a credit or debit card.

Send back your old passport

At the end of the application process, you will be given an address to which you can send your old passport.

Your old passport is one of the supporting documents needed to complete your passport renewal.

Therefore, you need to send it back to the passport office as part of the renewal process.

Alternatively, you can renew your passport using a paper form - but this will cost more.

How to renew your passport using a paper application form.

Get a paper app

You can obtain a paper application form by going to a post office that offers a check and mail service or by calling the Passport Adviceline.

You are less likely toApplication was rejectedif you use Verify and Submit.

The Check & Digital Send includes the cost of the photo - £16.00 plus passport application fee.

Paper Check and Send does not include the cost of the photo - it is £16.00 on top of the passport application fee and the cost of your photos.

fill the form

You must complete the paper form only in CAPITAL LETTERS and BLACK BALLPEN.

Make sure you don't write outside the white boxes or outside the signature boundaries.

Follow the instructions clearly to guide you to each section you need to complete.

Add two identical photos

You must attach two recent identical photographs.

These must meet required photo guidelines and, if necessary, be counter-signed.

pay the fee

When applying by paper form, there are several ways to pay the renewal amount.

According to the government website, the Post Office Passport Check and Send service accepts debit or credit cards, money orders and cash.

Checks are not accepted.

If you are applying by mail, you can fill in the form in the app with your debit or credit card details.

Checks or postal orders must be paid to the 'HM Passport Office'.

Cash is not accepted.

Return the current passport and submit the form

You must submit your completed paper application form, photos and all supporting documents.

As mentioned above, returning the old passport is part of the renewal process.

Therefore, you must send it back to the passport office along with your form.

Using Verify and Submit is generally faster than posting your own application.

How long does it take to renew a passport?

The HM Passport Office advises applicants to do thisplan up to ten weeksto obtain a passport.

Processing times vary if you are applying from another country.

Alternatively, you can use a Fast Track service, which we explain in more detail below, at a higher cost.

How much does it cost to renew a passport?

Pricesfor passport renewal depends on the type of passport you are applying for and how you complete your application.

It costs £82.50 to renew or replace an adult pass if you apply online or £93 if you fill in a paper form.

The cost of renovating achild passportonline costs £53.50 and £64 by post.

Can I speed up the passport renewal?

The good news is that you can speed up your passport renewal.

This service offers an alternative option if you need a passport quickly.

To get one, you need to get a form from the post office - you can't apply online.

Make sure you fill out the application form and have all the necessary documents.

Then book your appointment online and pay the fee.

You canBook your appointment here.

You need the following documents at hand.

• Two identical printed passport photos.
• Application form completed on paper
• Evidence - thatInformed leafletwhat you need

This service costs £155 for an adult pass (or £166 for a 50-page frequent traveler pass) or £126 for a child pass (or £137 for a 50-page frequent traveler pass).

Renewing your passport via the Fast Track option will drastically reduce the waiting time and will only take one week.

What should I do if my passport is not renewed on time?

The government website clearly states: "Do not book a trip until you have a valid passport."

There is no guaranteed turnaround time for the renewal service - therefore you are not entitled to a refund or compensation if it takes longer than ten weeks.

According to economics expert Martin Lewis, “If you are unable to travel on your trip because you do not have a valid passport, you are NOT entitled to a refund from travel providers as they still offer the service you booked.

“The exception is if you were promised the right to cancel and get a refund when you booked.

"But even if your booking isn't flexible, it's still worth reaching out to your vacation provider to explain the situation and see if they can help."

Alternatively, you can call the passport advice service on 0300 222 0000.

You can also write to the passport office as instructed in the complaint procedure if your application is delayed due to an error by the passport office.

It is important to note that compensation is NOT due if the delay is due to additional checks to be carried out or if the delay is caused by a third party.

Will my passport number change if I renew my passport?

The answer is yes - your passport number will change when you update your passport.

You can find your new passport number on the first page of your passport, below your photo and personal information.