How to renew your passport

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

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.

Step 1: Choose how to renew

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 it 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

Passport tips

• Don’t book travel until you’ve received your new passport.
• Check entry requirements for your destination country.
• Remember, some countries require at least 6 months’ validity on your passport.