Applying for a UK passport
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to applying for a UK passport. Whether you’re a first-time applicant, renewing your passport, or in need of expert assistance, we’ve got you covered.
Types of British Passports
- British Citizen Passport: You can live and work in the UK without any immigration controls. You can apply for a British passport if you were born in the UK or have obtained British citizenship through naturalization or registration.
- British National (Overseas) Passport: You can hold a British passport but do not have the same rights as a British citizen. This type of nationality is typically for individuals connected to former British colonies.
- British Overseas Territories Citizen Passport: You have rights associated with a specific British Overseas Territory. You may be able to apply for a British passport, depending on your specific circumstances.
- British Subject Passport: This type of nationality is for individuals with a close connection to the UK or its territories but without an automatic right to a British passport.
- British Protected Person Passport: This type of nationality is for individuals who had a connection to a former British Protectorate or Protected State. You can apply for a British passport as a British protected person.
- British national (overseas): This type of nationality is for individuals who were British Dependent Territories citizens connected to Hong Kong before 1997. You can apply for a British passport as a British national (overseas).
Eligibility for a UK Passport
To be eligible for a UK passport, you must hold British nationality. Different types of British nationality correspond to various passport options. Here are some common ways to become a British national:
- Born in the UK: If you were born in the UK, you may be a British citizen depending on when you were born and your parents’ circumstances. You can check if you’re a British citizen here.
- Married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen: If you’re married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship if you have lived in the UK for the last 3 years and have indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Have indefinite leave to remain (ILR): If you have ILR, you can usually apply for citizenship after living in the UK for 12 months.
- Have settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme: If you have settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can apply for citizenship after living in the UK for 12 months.
- British parent: If you have a British parent, you may be eligible for citizenship.
- Another type of British nationality: If you have another type of British nationality, you may be eligible for a UK passport.
- British overseas territories citizenship: If you have a parent with British overseas territories citizenship, you may be eligible for a UK passport.
- Stateless: If you are stateless, you may be eligible for a UK passport.
- Renounced your citizenship: If you previously renounced your British citizenship, you may be eligible to resume it.
- Special circumstances: Other special circumstances may apply to you, making you eligible for a UK passport.
- Chagossian descendant: If you are a direct descendant of someone born in British Indian Ocean Territory, you may be eligible for a UK passport.
Application Process
- Online Application: Complete the online form on the official UK government website.
- Council of Registration (CSR) or Overseas Post: Apply through the Council of Registration or an overseas post if you reside outside the UK.
- Counter Signatory: In some cases, you may require a counter signatory to verify your identity.
Required Documents
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- Proof of Identity: Such as a birth certificate or previous passport.
- Proof of British Nationality
- Recent Photograph: Must adhere to specified guidelines.
Fees
Fees vary based on the applicant’s age and passport type. For instance:
- Adult Passports: £88.50 (32 pages) or £100.50 (50 pages).
- Child Passports: £57.50 (32 pages) or £69.50 (50 pages).
Passport Renewal
To renew, submit a new application form, current passport, and necessary documents. Renewals can be done online or via mail.
Emergency Travel Documents
Contact the nearest British embassy or consulate if your passport is lost or stolen during travel.
Passport Validity
UK passports are valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children.
Passport Delivery and Collection
Passports are delivered via courier or mail. You can collect them from the application center or have them mailed to you.
Application Support
For assistance, contact the UK government’s passport advice line or visit a local passport office.
Application Updates
Keep your contact details updated for timely communication regarding your application.
Application Rejection or Withdrawal
If your application is rejected, you’ll receive a letter explaining the reason. Correct the issue and reapply if necessary. To withdraw an application, contact the passport advice line.
First Adult Passport Applications
Required documents vary based on factors such as birth location and parental nationality.
Passport Renewals and Replacements
Provide your most recent passport, complete the application form, and pay the fee.
How to Submit Your Application
Fill out the form, gather required documents, pay the fee, and submit your application.
Applying for a Passport: Guidance
- Different passport types
- What to include with your form
- Completion guidance and contact details
Expert Assistance: Kash Legal Services
At Kash Legal Services, our experienced professionals offer expert guidance to ensure a successful UK passport application. Contact us today for assistance.
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