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British Passport Renewal from the USA – Your Complete Guide.

For British citizens living in the USA, UK passport renewal must be completed online, as in-person renewals at local consulates or embassies are no longer available. This guide covers the essentials, including eligibility, timelines, and required documents.

Quick Facts: UK Passport Renewal from the USA

Where to Renew:
Renew your UK passport online from anywhere in the USA by completing the online application form.

Online Renewal:
The entire process can be done online, from submitting your application to uploading your passport photo. U.K.ABROAD offers guidance and assistance with every step to ensure your application is accurate and compliant.

When to Apply:
It’s recommended to renew your UK passport when it has 9 months (or less) validity remaining. You can expect a processing time of 3 to 4 weeks, so apply well in advance if you have upcoming travel.

Eligibility:
You are eligible to renew your UK passport if you already hold a British passport that is about to expire or has expired. The process is the same whether you are in the UK or living abroad in the USA.

Documents Required:

  • Completed online application form
  • Your current/expired British passport
  • Compliant digital passport photo
  • Credit or debit card for payment
  • Details of any other valid passports you hold (if applicable)
Apply Online Now

 

Expedited UK Passport Renewal:
An emergency travel document may be available if you need your passport urgently. This reduces the processing time, but availability may vary, and this option should be confirmed before applying. Read more about emergency travel documents here.

british passport from the usa

Key Answers: British Passport Renewals from the USA

How Long Does It Take to Renew a UK Passport in the USA?

It typically takes 3 to 4 weeks. Start the renewal process when your passport has 9 months of validity left in order to avoid travel issues. We do not recommend that you make travel arrangements if you have less than 6 months validity on your passport, as you run the risk of not being allowed to travel when you reach the airport or go through immigration.

Do I Need to Send My Old Passport when Renewing?

Yes, your old passport must be sent in. For security reasons, it will be returned to you in a separate parcel from your new one. Avoid making travel plans if your passport is expiring soon.  Read more about this process here.

Apply Online Now

 

What documents are needed to renew or apply for a British Passport?

Checklist for UK Passport renewal:

  • Completed application form
  • Debit or credit card for payment
  • Your current/ expired British Passport
  • Digital photograph
  • Any other non-British passport relating to the applicant

Recent changes to the British passport system must be taken into account when preparing your documents for British passport renewal in the USA. Fill in the easy online application form here, and we will advise what documents are required for your unique case.

Replacing a Lost, Damaged or Stolen British Passport

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to local authorities and obtain a police report. You can then apply for a replacement using the same online process. If you need to travel urgently, an emergency travel document can be issued through your nearest British Embassy or Consulate. Click here to find out more about replacing a lost or stolen UK passport.

How Do I Replace My Lost British Passport?

If you’ve lost your British passport, follow these steps to get a replacement:

  1. Report the Loss: Immediately report your lost passport to the local police and obtain a police report. This is essential for your application and helps protect against identity theft.
  2. Gather Documentation: You may need to provide additional documentation for your replacement passport, which could cause minor delays. It’s a good idea to allow a few extra days to gather all necessary paperwork and ensure everything is in order before applying.
  3. Submit a Replacement Application: The process for replacing a lost passport is similar to renewing one. Once you have your documents ready, submit your application online. The typical processing time is around 3 to 4 weeks, but this can vary depending on HM Passport Office’s workload.
  4. Emergency Travel Documents:An application for a passport renewal or replacement must already be submitted and in progress, before you can apply for an emergency travel document. If you choose to use U.K.ABROAD, a consultant will guide you on how to obtain an emergency travel document within 24 to 48 hours if your application is still being processed and your new passport has not arrived in time.

Once your emergency travel is completed, you can apply for your standard replacement passport online through U.K.ABROAD.

Need help renewing or replacing your British passport? Contact U.K.ABROAD, specialists in assisting British citizens in the USA. We offer support throughout the entire application process to ensure no details are overlooked.

First-time British Passport Applications from the USA

If you’re applying for your first UK passport, the process is also done online. American citizens can hold dual nationality, so you can keep your US citizenship while holding a UK passport. To find out if you’re eligible, check our criteria on birth, descent, or naturalisation by clicking here.

british passport from America

Applying is simple:

  1. Complete the online form.
  2. Submit a passport photo.
  3. Send your supporting documents.

Processing times can vary, but generally take 4 to 6 weeks.

Apply Online Now

How quickly can I get my first British passport from the USA?

A general rule of thumb is that it takes around 4 to 6 weeks to process a first-time British passport. It all depends on how busy HM Passport Office is at the time of applying.

To avoid any possible problems or delays with your UK passport application, contact the U.K.ABROAD team here and we can assist you with your entire application and help you to avoid mistakes or an application rejection.

How much is a British passport?

Below are the costs to apply for or renew your British passport:

Renewals & Lost/Stolen/Damaged Passport Replacements

All inclusive of government fees, shipping fees, service fees, new passport delivered to the applicant – no additional payments will be required.

  • Adult 34-page Standard Passport: (latest passport issued AFTER 1 January 2004) $309.00(USD*)
  • Adult 34-page Standard Passport: (latest passport issued BEFORE 1 January 2004) $399.00(USD*)
  • Child 34-page Standard Passport: $285.00(USD*)
  • Adult 54-page Jumbo Passport: (latest passport issued AFTER 1 January 2004) $345.00(USD*)
  • Adult 54-page Jumbo Passport: (latest passport issued BEFORE 1 January 2004) $409.00(USD*)

First-time Applications

  • Adult 34-page Standard Passport: $399.00(USD*)
  • Child 34-page Standard Passport: $365.00(USD*)
  • Adult 54-page Jumbo Passport: $409.00(USD*)

Renewing your UK passport while living in the USA is a smooth, convenient process with the right preparation and guidance. By following the recommended timelines and ensuring you have the required documents, you can enjoy a hassle-free renewal experience and continue your travels without interruption.

About the author

Tracey Roberts is a seasoned content writer with more than ten years of expertise specialising in travel documentation and British expat services. As an expert in British passports, Tracey plays a pivotal role at U.K.ABROAD, where she crafts detailed and informative content to guide expats through the complexities of passport services.

ABOUT U.K.ABROAD

U.K.ABROAD is the biggest worldwide leading private British Passport Service Provider for British citizens living abroad.

Operating independently since 2008, U.K.ABROAD specialises in easy, online British Passport renewals, replacements and applications from abroad.

With over 1000 verified five star reviews, their service excellence speaks for itself.

Their team of British Passport Consultants are exceedingly knowledgeable regarding all HM Passport Office’s requirements, constantly keeping updated about their current ever-changing rules and regulations.

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