How to renew your passport

Renewing your UK passport is a straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to renew your passport successfully.

Who can renew their passport?¶

You can renew your passport if:

• Your current passport has expired or is about to expire.
• Your passport is damaged or full.
• You've changed your name or personal details.
• You're 16 or over (or you're renewing a child passport as their parent or guardian).

Note: You can renew your passport even if it hasn't expired yet.

How to renew your passport¶

Step 1: Choose your method¶

You can renew your passport in two main ways:

1. Online (Recommended)

This is the fastest and cheapest method. You’ll need:

• A digital photo that meets UK passport photo requirements.
• Your current passport.
• A credit or debit card to pay the fee.

2. By post

You’ll need to:

• Get a paper application form from a Post Office that offers Passport Check and Send services.
• Provide two identical printed photos.
• Include your current passport and payment.

Step 2: Prepare your photo¶

You have two main options for your passport photo:

1. Use a photo booth

Many high-street photo booths (like those found in supermarkets, shopping centres, and train stations) now offer a photo code feature. Here's how it works:

• The booth takes your photo to UK passport standards.
• It provides a unique photo code on a receipt.
• When renewing online, simply enter the code - no need to upload or edit the photo yourself.

This is the easiest way to ensure your photo meets UK standards.

2. Upload a digital photo manually

If you're taking your own photo or using a photographer:

• The image must meet strict UK passport photo requirements.
• You'll upload it directly during the online application.

Step 3: Complete the Application¶

Online:

• Go to www.gov.uk/renew-passport
• Follow the prompts to fill in your details.
• Upload your photo.
• Pay the fee (£88.50 for adults, £57.50 for children as of 2025).
• Send your old passport by post to the address provided.

By post:

• Fill in the paper form carefully using black ink.
• Attach your photos (signed on the back if required).
• Include your current passport and payment.
• Post everything to the address listed in the application pack or use the Check and Send service.

Step 4: Track your application¶

Once submitted:

• You’ll get email updates (if applied online).
• You can track your application status at passport.service.gov.uk

Processing typically takes up to 3 weeks for online applications, but can be longer during busy periods. Never book travel until you have a passport valid for your trip.

Need to renew your passport faster?

You can get a passport quicker, if need be, but you still need to allow a minimum of 3 working days. Details and booking are available at www.gov.uk/get-a-passport-urgently

UK Passport tips ¶

• Don’t book travel until you’ve received your new passport.
• Check entry requirements for your destination country.
• If you lose your passport or it gets stolen, follow the tips in this helpful guide