Last Updated on November 20, 2024 by Tracey Roberts
British Passport application: Applying for your first British passport can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right information and advice, it can be a relatively simple process. In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps that you need to take in order to apply for your very own British passport!
British Passport Application: Why Apply?
Having a British passport is incredibly useful and can open many doors for you, both professionally and personally.
The benefits of having a British passport are vast and varied. Some of the key advantages include:
- Visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the United States, Canada, and much of Europe
- The right to work, study, and live in the United Kingdom
- Access to the world-class NHS
- A high quality of life
If you believe that you may be eligible for a UK passport, it is well worth investigating this as it could be a very positive life-changing factor for you.
This article gives you useful tips and advice if you will be applying for a British passport for the first time in the near future.
Understanding your possible claim to a UK passport
Knowing whether or not you are eligible for a British passport is not always as straightforward as it appears.
This is why it is recommended that you consult with a British passport expert, such as U.K.ABROAD before submitting your application. We can assess your unique situation and give you professional advice based on this.
If you would like to chat with one of our experts, simply contact us here and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Generally speaking, you could claim a British passport if one of the following applies to you:
- You were born or naturalised in the UK.
- You were born in the UK before 1 January 1983, even if your parents were not born in the United Kingdom.
- You were born in the UK after 1 January 1983, being eligible for a UK passport will depend on whether your parents were living in the UK on a legal resident visa when you were born. In such cases, you will need to provide certain supporting documents. Take note that you will not qualify for a British passport if you were born after 1 January 1983 in the UK, your parents are not British and were in the country illegally or on a tourist visa.
- You believe you can claim British citizenship by descent. This means that although you were born outside of the UK, one or both your parents were born in the UK.
- You were born in South Africa but a maternal grandparent was born in the United Kingdom.
To proceed with your British passport application, you will need to complete the forms and submit the required documentation. This can be a tricky process and it is important not to make any mistakes as this can result in a rejection.
Here at U.K.ABROAD, our team of specialists is well-versed on exactly what is required by the British government authorities when it comes to folks who want to apply for a British passport for the first time.
For a reasonable fee, we can process your entire application, giving you the best chance of being successful in your UK passport application.
Apply online today and ensure that you have enough time before you need to relocate or travel.
If you are planning on using your newly-obtained British passport to travel, we do not recommend making travel plans until you know that your new passport is on its way to you.
Otherwise, this may result in travel cancellations should there be a processing delay with His Majesty’s Passport Office.
U.K.ABROAD always advises clients to submit their British passport application in good time to avoid any unnecessary complications.
First-time British passport applications normally take a few weeks longer than renewals so this is something to bear in mind as well.
Ensure that your supporting documents and application forms are compliant.
There have been many cases of people applying for first-time British passports who have their entire applications rejected due to an overlooked error or mistake made with their photographs or another small detail.
This can be very frustrating, causing annoying delays and a waste of money. To prevent this from happening to you and to ensure that the process is as quick and efficient as possible, why not work with a specialist, such as U.K.ABROAD?
Our prices are surprisingly affordable and your case will be allocated to the best-suited specialist who will guide you through the entire process.
Your U.K.ABROAD expert will ensure that your forms are completely accurate, all supporting documentation is submitted and that your photos are compliant with the passport office’s standards.
Not sure if you qualify for a first-time British passport? Send us a message using the form below, and we will evaluate your unique situation and will advise on the best way forward for your British passport application.
Contact U.K.ABROAD for fast & easy British passport applications, renewals or replacements.
How long does it take to get a first-time British Passport?
- First-time applications – 4 to 6 weeks or sooner
- Lost/Stolen/Damaged passport replacements – 4 to 6 weeks or sooner
- Renewals – 3 to 4 weeks or sooner
IMPORTANT: Do not make any travel arrangements until you have received your new passport. We can’t accept responsibility for any paid travel arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions: First-time British Passport Application
In this section, we will answer your most frequently asked questions about first time British Passport applications.
How long does it take to get a British passport?
If you are applying for a British passport for the first time, it usually takes around six weeks to receive your new passport.
Are there any other requirements for British Passport applications?
Yes. If you have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime, you will need to provide details of this as part of your application. You may also be required to provide additional documentation, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, if your name has changed since birth. Our team of British Passport experts will advise you of the documents required for your unique case, once your application is in process.
What happens if my application is successful?
If your application for a British passport is successful, you will be issued with a passport which is valid for ten years.
What are the requirements for a British passport?
The following are the five most important requirements that most applicants must satisfy in order to apply for British nationality through naturalisation.
- Be over 18 years old
- Be of “good character”. Generally, this means not having committed any serious crimes or immigration fraud.
- Be currently living in the UK
- Meet the English language requirements
- Pass the “Life in the UK” test
These are the basic requirements for naturalisation, but most applicants must also fulfil the following:
- Lived in the UK for at least 5 years, without an absence longer than 450 days
- Travelled outside of the UK for no more than 90 days in the last year
- UK permanent residence (for EEA nationals) or been granted indefinite leave to stay in the UK (you must have had this for at least 1 year)
Spouses and civil partners of British citizens may have different requirements.
About U.K.ABROAD
U.K.ABROAD is a registered international company operating since 2008, with a team of experienced British passport specialists who have helped thousands of customers obtain their British passports quickly and hassle-free.
We offer a range of services to suit your individual needs, from first-time passport applications to renewals and replacements. We also offer a premium service for those who need their passports without delay.
For more information about our services or to begin your British passport application, contact us today.
If you are ready to begin your British passport application, please click here.
The lovely people at U.K.ABROAD were so helpful and kind in guiding me through the entire passport process. They also assisted me with obtaining other documents I needed. They communicated at every step of the process, which was most reassuring. I highly recommend them. – DONNA ROSS via Google Reviews. Click here to read more testimonials.
Conclusion.
If you are looking to apply for a British passport, whether it is your first time or not, this article will provide you with all the information you need. We have answered some of the most frequently asked questions and outlined the requirements that most applicants must meet.
If you are unsure about any aspect of the application process, our team of experts at U.K.ABROAD are always on hand to help. Contact us today for more information or to begin your application. Thank you for reading!
Contact U.K.ABROAD
Contact U.K.ABROAD for fast & easy British passport applications, renewals or replacements from abroad.
