How do you replace a UK passport?

Replacing a UK passport can seem like a tricky process, but is actually relatively straightforward. In this guide, we cover how to replace a UK passport in all situations that you might be in.

All UK passports will be valid for 10 years upon validation. If you’re travelling abroad, it’s crucial that you make sure your passport is within date for when you travel. A recent rule was passed in the UK that states all usable passports are required to be valid for longer than six months from the expiry date. Therefore, you might need to urgently replace your passport if you’re planning on travelling soon. Remember – the process for replacing a passport will take three weeks at the minimum.

How to replace a UK passport

Replacing a UK passport is done via Gov.uk’s website.

Once you have determined that you need to replace your passport, there are a few initial considerations that you will need to take.

Firstly, you must state whether you are applying from within or outside of the UK, and secondly, what the reason is for you needing a replacement.

This could be either:

• A standard renewal
• A replacement for a lost, stolen or damaged passport
• Updating your details, if your name has been changed.

Here is how to replace, renew or apply for a new passport:

If you are in the UK

After visiting Gov.uk, you will be required to follow a few steps in order to renew your passport.

1. Get a digital passport photo

This will be a photo for your passport, and must meet certain criteria in order to be accepted as a photo.

2. Provide your details

Provide all your details for your passport, including your name, date of birth and your place of birth. Getting this information wrong could cause big delays in your application process, so it’s important that you double check all your details are correct.

3. Payment

Renewing a passport costs, so you will need to be ready to pay for a replacement. This can depend on where you are, so make sure that you note down exactly how much it will cost.

4. Identity confirmation

As HMRC registers your application, you may need to get someone else to confirm your identity. This can be done online.

5. Track your application

Once this has been completed, then you will be able to track your application. Getting your new passport will normally take around three weeks, so make sure that you renew your passport with plenty of time to spare before you travel.

This is also depending on your application passing through without any hiccups. In reality, your application could take a lot longer if you are required to resubmit any information.

Applying for a UK passport from abroad

Being outside of the UK when you apply for a new passport only changes a few things. You will need to go to Gov.uk again, and register for an overseas British passport application.

Essentially, the steps are the same, however you will likely experience a slightly longer turnaround period than if you are ordering from within the UK – up to six weeks.

Depending on your location, there is also a chance you may need to attend an appointment at an embassy, or have your passport sent there.

What happens if you lose your passport?

Depending on where you lose your passport may determine your next steps.

If you have lost your passport or it has been damaged, then you will need to apply the same way via HMRC. This is the process to ‘replace’ your passport as opposed to renewing it.

What if I lose my passport abroad?

If you lose your passport abroad, which with travelling can be more common, there is a greater urgency for a replacement. However, there are systems in place for this event.

You will need to apply for an emergency travel document, which is essentially a one-time passport use (that can also be used on return journeys). 

However, keep in mind that this is only for urgent situations. If you do not need to leave the country you’re in any time soon (within six weeks), then applying for a passport normally is perfectly fine.

What if my passport is stolen?

You should report your stolen passport to the police, wherever you are. Criminals may use your passport to impersonate you, and to also commit further crimes, so it’s important to alert the relevant authorities.

You can call 101 in the UK to report a stolen passport. Doing this is important, as applying for a new passport in the British Embassy can sometimes require a written police report.

Furthermore, travel insurers may also want to receive proof of your passport being stolen if you are looking to claim back an expense on your travel.

Fast-track service

There is also a fast-track service in the UK for people looking to replace an existing UK passport immediately. This will take one calendar week, and costs extra, but can be a worthwhile investment if you are travelling abroad soon and need a passport.

Conclusion

If you are in need of replacing a UK passport, then there are many options, and you should consider a few things, such as how urgently you need a replacement and for what reason. If you are outside of the UK, then remember that the requirements are slightly different.

If you are living abroad for example and lose your passport, remember that you can apply the same way as a renewal, there is no need for an emergency travel document.

There are many requirements for moving to a country that you should investigate before you relocate. For example, if you are moving to Saudi Arabia from the UK, then you are required to get an iqama, a unique document justifying your stay in the country. Many other countries have similar requirements.

If you’re interested in moving abroad, then stay posted on our Expat Life articles, where we cover specific topics about moving and living abroad.

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