Last Updated on November 1, 2024 by Tracey Roberts
Several questions and concerns arise when renewing your UK passport, especially while living abroad. This article addresses one of the most frequently asked questions: “Do you have to send your old passport back when renewing online?“
Every British citizen, whether residing in the UK or abroad, must renew their passport periodically. The process can feel a bit more complicated for those living outside of the UK. Fortunately, specialised service providers like U.K.ABROAD simplify this task, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Yes, when renewing your UK passport, you are required to send in your most recently issued British passport.
- HM Passport Office needs this document to verify your details and ensure they match your online renewal forms.
- After processing, the Passport Office will return your old passport, albeit in a cancelled state, with its corners clipped off, making it invalid for travel.
The passport office will send your old passport back to you – as you may need this if you have a Visa that’s still valid in it.
Do you have to send in your old UK passport when renewing?
The Essential Answer: Yes, when renewing your UK passport, you are required to send in your most recently issued British passport. HM Passport Office needs this document to verify your details and ensure they match your online renewal forms.
Why the Concern: Many applicants worry about sending their current passports, fearing loss or damage during transit. Such fears are natural, given the document’s importance. But rest assured, when using reliable courier services, your passport is in safe hands. Due to potential delays or losses, it’s advised not to use local post offices for this purpose.
Lost in Transit:
In the rare scenario where a passport gets lost while on its way to the UK Passport Office, you should immediately report the loss to your local police. Subsequently, contact the nearest British High Commission, Consulate, or Embassy. They will guide you in obtaining a temporary passport for the renewal process. Using a reputable courier service minimises this risk significantly.
One of the critical advantages of partnering with a company like U.K.ABROAD for your passport renewal is the reduction in transit risks. Here’s why opting for U.K.ABROAD is a game-changer:
1. Expertise in Document Handling: With years of experience handling sensitive and crucial documents like passports, U.K.ABROAD has developed a robust system that prioritises the safety and security of your documents. This ensures that your passport is always handled with the utmost care.
2. Collaborations with Reliable Couriers: U.K.ABROAD has ties with reputable courier services known for their punctuality and reliability. These collaborations mean your passport is always in safe hands, reducing the risk of it getting lost in transit.
Where do I send my old UK passport when renewing online?
When renewing from overseas, it’s essential that your old passport reaches the correct government office in the UK for processing. U.K.ABROAD handles this step on your behalf, ensuring it goes directly to the appropriate department to avoid any mishaps. By entrusting this part of the process to our experienced team, you can be confident that your document won’t end up at the wrong location, providing peace of mind as you wait for your renewed passport.
Return of Your Old Passport:
Good news! After processing, the Passport Office will return your old passport, albeit in a cancelled state, with its corners clipped off, making it invalid for travel. It’s a good idea to keep this document, as it can be an identity verification tool if needed.
Your FAQs Answered:
- Can I use my old passport while waiting for the new one?
No, since you’d be sending your old passport for renewal, it cannot be used during the interim period. Read more about using your passport while it is being renewed here. - Will I receive my old and new passports together?
No, they will be couriered separately to mitigate any risk of loss. - What should I do with my old, invalidated passport?
Keep it. While it’s no longer useful for travel, it can help verify your identity if required.
About U.K.ABROAD:
U.K.ABROAD is a pioneer in assisting British citizens abroad with their passport renewal, application, and replacement needs. Established in 2008, the company focuses on simplifying what can be daunting. Their offerings include:
- Easy online application process. Click here to apply online now.
- Secure payments via Stripe.
- Comprehensive application checking by experts. Click here to view our team of British passport specialists.
- Safe dispatch of documents to the UK government office.
- Direct delivery of new British Passports to your doorstep.
Consistent five-star reviews underline U.K.ABROAD’s commitment to service quality.
U.K ABROAD offered a seamless experience! The communication and process were so simple. I had my new passport arrive in Australia within a couple of weeks. I can’t recommend this service enough!
Lisa Gray via Google Reviews. Read more verified Google reviews here.
Conclusion:
When renewing your UK passport from abroad, the process might raise questions, especially about the return of your old passport. The simple answer is: yes, you need to send your old passport back when renewing. This allows HM Passport Office to check everything and make sure all the details match up. While this step may seem concerning, it’s a standard part of the renewal process. By following the correct procedures, using trusted delivery methods, and keeping informed, you can ensure the renewal process goes smoothly. Remember, even after you get your new passport, keeping the old one is a good idea – it can be useful in unexpected situations.
Topic: Do you have to send your old passport back when renewing online (UK)?
