Last Updated on October 10, 2025 by Tracey Roberts
Reviewed by Brittany Romain, Senior UK Passport Specialist (2025)
To get a British passport, you must be a British citizen. The simplest and most reliable way to apply is through U.K.ABROAD, where experienced consultants guide you through the process step by step. You’ll need proof of identity, proof of citizenship, a digital photo, and payment of the relevant fee before your application can be processed.
Applying for a British passport creates numerous opportunities, enables international travel, and serves as proof of citizenship.
Understanding the process can seem overwhelming at first. However, with the proper guidance, it becomes manageable.
This guide will walk you through each step of the application. From eligibility to submission, we cover it all.
Understanding UK Passport Eligibility
Determining your eligibility is the first step in the UK passport process. You must be a British citizen to be eligible to apply.
Several criteria establish your citizenship status. These include birth in the UK and having a parent who is a British citizen.
Consider the following eligibility criteria:
- Born in the UK to British parents
- Naturalised as a British citizen
- Born to a British citizen abroad
Each category has specific requirements, so review them carefully. If you’re unsure which category you fall under, U.K.ABROAD consultants can assess your eligibility before you begin your application. Understanding your eligibility ensures a smooth start to your application.
Use our UK passport eligibiltiy quiz to comfirm your eligibility.
UK Passport Requirements: What You Need
To apply for a British passport, certain documents are essential. These serve to verify your identity and citizenship. Accurate documentation is key to a successful application.
Common requirements include proof of identity and proof of British citizenship. Birth certificates and national ID cards are frequently used. Always double-check that documents are current and valid.
Here’s a list of necessary documents:
- Proof of identity (e.g., national ID card)
- Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate)
- Recent digital passport photos
Ensure your documents are correct and complete to avoid delays.
When applying via U.K.ABROAD, a dedicated consultant will review your documents before submission to help ensure everything meets HM Passport Office standards.
Step-by-Step British Passport Application Process
Getting a British passport is straightforward if you follow the right steps.
Start by confirming your eligibility for the application. Once confirmed, gather all necessary documents.
Completing the application form is an important step. Ensure all your information is correct. Mistakes in personal details can lead to delays.
Once your application is complete, submit it and pay the applicable fee.
Here’s the application process outline:
- Confirm eligibility
- Complete the application form
- Pay the fee
- Submit photos and gather necessary documents
- Your new passport is delivered to your doorstep.
U.K.ABROAD manages this process for you, including pre-checking your forms, securely submitting your application and photos and arranging secure courier collection.
Completing the Passport Application Form
The application form requires detailed personal information. Be prepared with your personal and contact details. Ensure each section is complete and error-free.
Complete the form accurately. This includes your full name, address, and date of birth. Accuracy prevents delays in processing.
Checklist for application form completion:
- Full name and contact details
- Date of birth
- Eligibility details
- Details of your foreign passport – if applicable
Double-check everything before submission. Errors in the form are a common reason for delays.
U.K.ABROAD consultants double-review every application to ensure it meets HM Passport Office requirements before submission.
Passport Photos: Guidelines and Tips
Passport photos have strict requirements. It’s vital they meet specific criteria for acceptance. Submitting incorrect photos can delay your application.
Follow these guidelines for passport photos:
- Photos must be recent and of high quality.
- Ensure a plain background and a neutral expression.
Verify the rules and ensure your photo complies. Accurate photos streamline the application.
READ | Understanding Digital Photo Specs for UK Passports
British Passport Application Fees and Costs
Applying for a British passport involves certain fees. These vary based on application type.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the fees:
- Adult first-time passport: £314
- Child first-time passport: £294
U.K.ABROAD’s service fee covers personalised consultant guidance, full document pre-checks, and tracked courier support from start to finish. Remember, HMPO’s fees do not include the full courier fees.
To view our full list of prices click here
Read | Most Common UK Passport Application Questions 2025
Passport Application Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
Understanding the passport application timeline is crucial for planning your travel. Generally, the standard processing time is about 6 weeks. However, certain factors can affect this duration.
Here’s a quick look at possible influences:
- Peak travel seasons
- Public holidays
- Expedited services (available for urgent travel needs)
Always apply well in advance to avoid unexpected delays.
READ | Processing Time for UK Passport Renewal: How Long Does It Take in 2025?
With a 99% acceptance rate and expert pre-checks on every submission, U.K.ABROAD ensures your application meets HM Passport Office standards before it’s sent, helping you avoid costly mistakes or delays.
Tips for a Successful British Passport Application
A smooth application process requires careful attention to detail. Make sure all information provided is accurate and complete.
Consider these helpful tips:
- Double-check personal details
- Ensure your passport photo meets guidelines
- Submit all required documents
Being prepared can prevent delays and ensure a smoother experience.
U.K.ABROAD’s Zero-Rejection Pledge means every application is pre-checked to meet HM Passport Office standards before submission.
Expert advice from Jan, U.K.ABROAD Consultant:
Most delays happen because applicants miss small details, like the incorrect Birth certificate or a photo that’s slightly off-spec. If you’re unsure, let us double-check everything before submission – it can save you weeks of waiting.
British Passport Renewal: What to Know
Renewing a British passport is typically a straightforward process. Ensure your current passport is valid for at least six months when travelling.
Key steps for renewal:
- Fill out the renewal form
- Provide recent photos
- Pay the renewal fee
Act early to avoid any last-minute issues, especially before busy travel periods.
According to HMPO’s statistics for the first quarter of 2025 – 17.9% of applications received during this time were issued after additional information was required.Avoid setbacks and get it right the first time with expert help from U.K.ABROAD – we review your documents, guide your application, and ensure everything is submitted correctly.
If your passport is expiring soon, U.K.ABROAD can manage your renewal from start to finish, saving you weeks of admin time.
Tracking Your Application and Dealing with Delays
Once you’ve applied, you can track your British passport application online. This helps you stay updated on the process status.
If delays occur, common causes include missing documents or errors. Avoid these by checking:
- Application completeness
- Correct fee payment
- Accurate personal information
Stay informed and ensure all requirements are met to minimize processing time.
Special Cases: Children, Lost Passports, and Dual Citizenship
Applying for a child’s passport varies slightly from that of an adult. Ensure you have parental consent and the child’s birth certificate.
For lost or stolen passports, report immediately to prevent identity theft. Consider the implications of dual citizenship on eligibility.
Key considerations include:
- Parental consent for children
- Immediate reporting of lost documents
- Understanding dual citizenship rules
U.K.ABROAD assists with special and complex cases, from children’s applications to replacements for lost or stolen passports.
“I would like to commend & thank Brittany for her professional & most helpful handling of my British Passport renewal. She was always clear, answered my question promptly & professionally! Thanks so much Brittany, I will be contacting you when I need to renew again.
I wish you much happiness always. Thanks again!! Lisa Jamieson“
FAQs
What must you do first to get a British passport?
You must first be a British national and then apply online or with a paper form, submitting all required documents.
What must you do before applying for a British passport?
You must establish that you have British nationality.
What does your eligibility for a British passport depend on?
Your eligibility depends on factors such as your place of birth, parents’ circumstances, or time spent living in the UK.
If you were born in the UK, what determines your eligibility for British nationality?
Your eligibility depends on the date of your birth and the immigration status of your parents at that time.
Can you be a British citizen if you were born abroad?
Yes, you may be a British citizen by descent if one or both of your parents were British citizens when you were born.
How can non-British adults become citizens?
Non-British adults can become citizens after living in the UK for a qualifying period, meeting residency requirements, passing the Life in the UK Test, and proving knowledge of English.
What documents are needed for a first adult passport application?
You will need original documents, such as your birth or adoption certificate, and your parents’ birth or naturalisation certificates.
What kind of photos must be provided for a passport application?
You must provide a digital photo for online applications or two identical printed photos for paper applications.
Who can act as a countersignatory for a first-time passport?
A countersignatory must be a British or Irish citizen who has known you for at least two years.
How must you apply if you are outside the UK?
If applying from outside the UK, you must apply online.
Conclusion: Start Your UK Passport Process with Confidence
Navigating the British passport application process can seem daunting. However, understanding each step helps streamline the experience.
Prepare your documents in advance and double-check requirements to avoid delays. By following these guidelines, you can approach your UK passport application with confidence and peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
- You must be a British citizen to apply for a UK passport.
- Applications can be made online or by paper, but online is faster and easier.
- You’ll need proof of identity, citizenship, and compliant photos to apply.
- U.K.ABROAD’s service fee covers expert guidance, pre-checks, and secure courier handling.
- Standard processing time is around 10 weeks, so apply early.
- U.K.ABROAD consultants review every detail to prevent errors or rejections.
- Dedicated support is available for renewals, first-time, child, and lost passport cases.
- Applying through U.K.ABROAD ensures a smoother, safer, and stress-free experience.
