Last Updated on March 10, 2025 by Tracey Roberts
Countersignatory passport: When applying for a passport, you may be required to have a countersignatory. What is a countersignatory? What do they do? How can you get one?
In this blog post, we will answer all these questions and more! We will provide an in-depth look at passport requirements and what you need to know in order to obtain or renew your passport.
Key Takeaways
- A countersignatory (in the context of passport applications) is someone who signs your passport application to verify your identity.
- The primary purpose of requiring a countersignatory is to prevent identity fraud.
- You are not required to have a countersignatory for a standard British passport renewal.
What is a Countersignatory?
A countersignatory is someone who signs your passport application to verify your identity. In order to be a countersignatory, the person must:
- have known you (or the adult who signed the form if the passport is for a child under 16) for at least 2 years
- be able to identify you, for example, they’re a friend (not just someone who knows you professionally)
- be a person of good standing in their community
(information sourced from gov.uk)
Why do I need a Countersignatory?
The primary purpose of requiring a countersignatory is to prevent identity fraud. By having someone else sign your application, it helps to ensure that the information you have provided is accurate and that you are who you say you are.
Certain passport applications must be signed by someone else (the ‘countersignatory’) to prove the identity of the person applying.
You must get an application countersigned if you’re applying for a:
- first adult passport
- first child passport
- replacement for a lost, stolen or damaged passport
- renewal of a passport for a child aged 11 or under
- renewal of a passport if your appearance has changed and you cannot be recognised from your existing passport
Do I need a countersignature for a passport renewal online?
In a significant development for HMPO, the online renewal service removes the need for the applicant to have the back of their photo countersigned. Instead, users simply give the name and email address of the person they would like to confirm their identity.
How can I get a Countersignatory? Who can sign a passport?
There are a few options available to you if you need to find a countersignatory. Please refer to the ‘What is a countersignatory’ section above and ensure your countersignatory complies with the requirements.
Renewing your British Passport from Australia? Click here to read our ultimate guide.
Who cannot be a countersignatory?
You cannot ask someone to countersign your passport if you’re:
- related to them by birth or marriage
- in a relationship with or live at the same address as them
If you’re applying from abroad (outside of the UK)
Your countersignatory must have a current British, Irish or other EU, US or Commonwealth passport.
If they have a US, Commonwealth, or non-British or non-Irish EU passport, you must include with your application a colour photocopy of the page with their photograph on it.
Your application will be processed faster if they have a British or Irish passport.
Can a friend sign a passport photo?
Yes, the HM Passport Office states that a friend may sign your passport photo with the exception that you must make sure they satisfy all other necessary requirements. For instance, they cannot be your roommate, family member, or be involved in a romantic connection with you.
What does the countersignatory need to do?
After you’ve completed the form, your countersignatory must ensure that the information is correct and sign it. They are acknowledging that by signing it:
- they’ve known you for more than 2 years
- you’re who you claim to be
- as far as they know, all the information you’ve put on the form is true
Additionally, your countersignatory must put their passport number on the form.
Your countersignatory may be contacted
Your countersignatory may be contacted by HM Passport Office for more information. Your application may be delayed if they’re not available, for example they’re on holiday.
Those countersigning passports can also do this process online. They will receive an email from the HM Passport Office to do this.
Read more about British passport renewal requirements here.
Renewing your UK Passport from the USA? Read the complete guide here.
About U.K.ABROAD
U.K.ABROAD is an established organisation dedicated to helping British citizens living abroad with passport applications, replacements and renewals. We have a team of qualified professionals who are on hand to provide expert advice and assistance throughout the passport renewal or application process.
If you need any more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help!
Renewing a UK passport from France? Find out more here.
Conclusion
We hope this blog post has helped to clear up any confusion about what a countersignatory is and why you may need one when applying for a passport. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help!
Contact U.K.ABROAD for fast & easy British passport applications, renewals or replacements from abroad.
Click here to find out about renewing your UK passport from Canada.
