British Passport Frequently Asked Questions

Your UK passport typically needs to be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your trip. Failure to meet this requirement may result in being denied boarding or entry into your destination country. Renew your UK passport well in advance to avoid complications. Read more about passport validity here.

Adult Passports (Age 16 and Older): Valid for 10 years from the date of issue.

Child Passports (Under Age 16): Valid for 5 years from the date of issue. Read more about child passports here.

Frequent travellers can request a 50-page passport by specifying this requirement on the application form. U.K.ABROAD will guide you through the additional steps needed for this option. More information about 50-page passports is available here.

If you require a Braille sticker, indicate this need on your application form. U.K.ABROAD will ensure your request is included during the submission process. Learn more about Braille stickers here.

We use reliable international couriers to securely ship your documents to HM Passport Office in the UK. Packages are tracked, and proof of delivery is provided.

Your new passport and supporting documents will be shipped directly to you via secure, signed delivery.

Costs vary by country. View our prices here.

Renew your UK passport by completing the application form here. Even if your passport has expired, the renewal process remains straightforward unless it has been expired for 10 years or more. Click here for more details about renewing an expired British passport.

Complete the application form here. U.K.ABROAD provides assistance to ensure you meet all requirements, including digital photos and supporting documents. Learn more about first-time applications here.

For Renewals:

• Old ORIGINAL Passport (valid or expired).
• Any other uncancelled non-British passport (if dual citizenship).
• A debit or credit card for payment.
• A complaint digital passport photo.
• Name change documents if applicable (e.g., marriage certificate, deed poll). Details can be found here.

For First-Time Applications:

• Applicant’s original full birth or naturalisation certificate.
• Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, ID).
• Parents’ original full birth or naturalisation certificates.
• Parents’ marriage certificate.
• Copies of parents’ British passports (if available).

Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances. Read more about UK passport requirements here.

Yes, you must send in your most recently issued British passport for cancellation. This ensures the details match your application. Find more information about sending in your old passport here.

Renewals typically take 3 to 4 weeks. Avoid booking travel until you have received your new passport.

First-time applications usually take 4 to 6 weeks. As with renewals, wait until you have your passport before booking travel.

Error Prevention: We ensure your application, photos, and documents are accurate.

Trusted Courier Services: Secure document delivery via DHL, UPS, or Royal International.

Expert Assistance: Personalised guidance throughout the process.

Time and Cost Savings: Avoid errors and delays by letting us handle the details.

U.K.ABROAD assists applicants worldwide, including:

Europe Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

South Africa Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

Australia Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

New Zealand Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

USA/ Mexico/ South America/ Caribbean Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

Canada Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

Asia Click here for country-specific guidance or Click here to renew online now.

Our once-off payment is all-inclusive, covering passport office fees, courier fees, service fees, and the secure delivery of your new passport(s) directly to you. This service also provides ongoing communication via email and phone between our consultants and the applicant until the passport is delivered. We handle the entire process, ensuring accuracy and peace of mind.

Here’s what’s included in our comprehensive service:

• Document Checks: Applicant’s documents are thoroughly reviewed via scans and emails.
• Expert Review: An experienced consultant checks all forms, documents, and digital photos to ensure everything is accurate before finalising the application.
• Secure Document Shipment: We arrange the safe and efficient delivery of your documents directly to the relevant government office in the UK. No documents are sent to third parties.
• Government Correspondence: We handle all communication and follow-ups with the relevant government office in the UK on your behalf.
• Delivery: New British passports and/or supporting documents will be sent directly to the applicant via a registered, reliable courier service (DHL, the official courier for the passport office).

Our fees are fully inclusive, covering government office fees, service fees, secure document shipment, and delivery of your new passport or documents. No additional payments will be required.

Important Notes:

• Applications from abroad can no longer be submitted in person at local British embassies or consulates. Paper applications from outside the UK are also not accepted, except for specific countries.
• Applications that have not been professionally reviewed are often delayed or rejected due to issues such as incorrect photos, missing or incomplete supporting documents, and improperly completed forms.

With our service, you can be confident your application is in expert hands, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

All photos must be submitted electronically, as printed photos are no longer accepted. U.K.ABROAD will provide clear instructions and guide you through the process of submitting your digital photo correctly.

It’s important to note that applications submitted without proper checks are frequently delayed or rejected due to issues such as incorrect photos, missing or invalid supporting documents, or errors in completed forms. Let us help you avoid these common pitfalls.

Click here to find out more about UK passport photo requirements.

All photos for your application must be submitted electronically as digital photos. Printed photos are no longer accepted.

Submission Process:

1. Digital Photo Requirement:
   Your photo must meet the UK passport digital photo standards. These include:
   • High resolution and clear quality.
   • A neutral expression with a plain, light-coloured background. 

Click here to find out more about UK passport photo requirements. 

2. Guidance Provided:
   U.K.ABROAD will guide you through the process, providing detailed instructions on:
   • How to capture a compliant digital photo
   • How to submit your photo electronically.
3. Photo Review:
   Once your photo is submitted, U.K.ABROAD will review it to ensure it meets all requirements before including it in your application.

By following the instructions provided, you can ensure your photo meets the necessary standards and is ready for submission. If you have questions or need additional support, U.K.ABROAD’s team is always available to assist.

A countersignatory confirms your identity for certain applications, such as first-time passports or those involving significant appearance changes. They must be a professional who knows you personally. Read more about countersignatories here.

Contact [email protected] for advice on obtaining replacement copies of official documents.

Yes, non-English or non-Welsh documents require certified translations alongside the originals. Learn more about translation requirements here.

Yes. U.K.ABROAD offers services for applicants worldwide, including those living in the USA/ Mexico/ South America/ Caribbean, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Europe, Asia. 

How to Verify U.K.ABROAD’s Legitimacy:

1. Courier Partnerships:
   • Our services are supported by trusted registered courier companies, including DHL, Royal International, and UPS.
2. Secure Payment System:
   • All transactions are processed securely through Stripe, a globally recognised and trusted payment platform. Stripe will also assist in verifying the legitimacy of our business.
3. Client Testimonials:
   • For added assurance, you can refer to the many positive client testimonials shared on Google, TrustPilot and Facebook. 
4. Privacy and Security:
   • We prioritise your privacy by ensuring all emails are sent and received via a secure server to protect your personal information.

We are committed to delivering reliable and professional services to make the passport renewal or application process from abroad as smooth and secure as possible.

When making a payment via debit or credit card, or via PayPal, your local currency will be automatically converted to GBP or USD at the current exchange rate by your bank or payment provider.