Passport renewal fees are set to see a sharp increase in the next few weeks, so those looking to get ahead of the changes should act quickly.
The UK government was quick to remind travellers to check the issue and expiry dates on their passports ahead of the spring and summer months, but it has now announced changes to the renewal process.
It's important in post-Brexit Britain to ensure that you have a valid passport which has been issued less than 10 years before your departure, and valid for at least three months after your return.
If you have a blue passport, you should be safe from this issue.
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But for those with a red passport, you should also check your expiry date and aim to renew it at least 10 weeks before it expires, or when booking travel.
Brits should look to renew when the expiry date is within three to six months.
If you fall into this category and have a sunny holiday to look forward to, it's vital that you submit your application ASAP to avoid delays or the passport arriving late.
You should allow up to three weeks past the application date for your new passport to arrive, with at least six weeks needed for first-time or complex applications.
New passport renewal prices
The following fees will come into effect from Wednesday (8 April):
- Adults - £102
- Children - £66.50
- One-day premium service - £239.50
- Overseas adults - £116.50
- Overseas children - £75.50
The new prices mean that the application fee will rise to £100 for the first time, as adults will see a rise from £94.50 to £102, while children's passports have gone from £61.50 to £66.50, in an eight per cent increase.
According to the Home Office, this increase will allow them to 'move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it', while relying less on taxpayers.
As for those applying by post, adults will see an increase from £107 to £115.50, and children from £74 to £80, while overseas applications by post will go up from £120.50 to £130, and children's applications will rise to £89 from £82.50.
The Home Office has explained that these new fees will go towards contributing 'to the cost of processing passport applications, consular support overseas, including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders'.
Passport prices last saw an increase in 2024, going up by seven per cent, after going up nine per cent back in 2023.
How soon can you renew your passport?
You can apply to renew your passport at any time, regardless of its expiry date. Travel Supermarket advises checking the validity of your passport before travelling, especially if it expires within six months of your return date. You also cannot carry over any 'unused' months.
It should be noted that renewing your passport could take longer than three weeks during busy periods, such as the weeks leading up to school holidays.
So if you're looking to travel in the upcoming summer months and have a few months left on your passport, it's worth getting your application in early to save money and alleviate any worries for at least 10 years.
Topics: Travel, UK News, Brexit, Cost of Living
Joshua Nair