Website of the UK government

Applying for your passport

If you're a British national born on or before 2 September 1929 you can apply for a free standard 32-page ten-year passport from the Identity and Passport Service (formerly the UK Passport Service).

If you have applied for a passport since 19 May 2004 and you're eligible for a free passport, you can apply for a refund of the standard passport fee.

The Identity and Passport Service can provide information about your free passport or applying for a refund on the Passport Adviceline 0870 521 0410, 24 hours a day.

• Passport application forms on the Identity and Passport Service website Opens new window

How to apply

There are several ways you can apply for your passport. You will need an application pack, which includes an application form, guidance notes and payment leaflet. The application packs are available online, at a Passport Office, at certain post office branches and Worldchoice travel agents.

Online application

You can complete a passport application online on the Identity and Passport Service website. Once you have completed and submitted the online form, it will be returned to you to sign and date. You will then need to enclose the right photos and documents, before returning it to the Identity and Passport Service for processing.

• Apply for a passport online Opens new window

Passport Office

There are seven regional Passport Offices in the UK, which can provide extra assistance when contacted.

• Find your nearest Identity and Passport Service office Opens new window

Help on the high street

Many Post Office branches provide a 'Check & Send' service. For a handling fee, they will check your passport application and forward all the relevant paperwork for the passport directly to the Identity and Passport Service.

• Post Office Check & Send service Opens new window

Different services available

Depending on when you need your passport, the following services are available:

The Premium service is only available for passport renewals, amendments and extending child passports. It is not available for customers applying for a passport for the first time and it is not normally available for those applying to replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport.

With the exception of the Fast Track and Premium services, return times cannot always be guaranteed and they may take longer during periods of peak demand.

If you would like to use these guaranteed services, you must make an appointment by calling the Passport Adviceline on 0870 521 0410, 24 hours a day.

Travel and your passport

When you're travelling with your passport, it's a good idea to:

If your passport is lost or stolen, contact the nearest British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate immediately.

• British consular offices Opens new window

More useful links

• Replace or apply for a passport
• Passports and visas (travel and transport section)