If you find yourself in need of a UK passport on short notice, there are expedited services available to ensure you can obtain your passport as quickly as possible.
Whether it’s for an unexpected trip, medical treatment, or other urgent matters, understanding these services can help you navigate the process smoothly.
Urgent Passport Application Methods
There are two primary options for those who need to expedite their passport application:
- 1-Day Premium Service
- Eligibility: This service is exclusively for renewing adult passports.
- Process: You can schedule an appointment as early as two days after your application. The new passport is issued during your appointment, which typically lasts no more than 10 minutes.
- Cost: £207.50 for a standard passport, or £219.50 for a 54-page frequent traveler passport.
- 1-Week Fast Track Service
- Eligibility: This service can be used to renew a passport, update personal details, replace a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, or obtain a child passport.
- Process: Appointments can be booked as early as the day after your application. The new passport will be delivered by courier within one week of your appointment.
- Cost: £166.50 for an adult passport (£178.50 for a 54-page passport) and £135.50 for a child passport (£147.50 for a 54-page passport).
How to Apply Online
The online application process is straightforward and includes a series of questions to determine your eligibility. After this, you’ll be able to book an appointment, submit your application, and make the necessary payment. Ensure you have the following ready:
- Your old passport (if available)
- A digital photograph
- A credit or debit card
Important Considerations
- Restrictions: The expedited services are not available for first-time adult passport applicants. If you are outside the UK, you will need to apply for an emergency travel document instead.
- Multiple Applications: If you have already applied for a passport and it hasn’t been received yet, do not submit a new urgent application as it will not speed up the process. A £30 administrative fee will apply for each additional application.
Appointment Changes or Cancellations
You can modify your appointment by following the instructions in your confirmation email. If the appointment is more than 48 hours away, changes are free. If it’s less than 48 hours away, you’ll need to cancel and rebook, with a £30 fee. Missing an appointment results in no refund, and a new booking and payment are required.
Sending a Representative
If you cannot attend your appointment in person, a representative can attend on your behalf. They must bring your application reference number, your old passport, and a signed letter from you granting them permission to collect the new passport. For the 1-Week Fast Track Service, additional documents may be required.
Emergency Travel Documents (Outside the UK)
For those outside the UK who urgently need to travel but cannot use their UK passport, an emergency travel document may be an option. This document typically allows one single or return journey and travel through up to five countries.
Eligibility:
- You must be a British national outside the UK.
- You need to travel within six weeks.
- Your UK passport has been lost, stolen, damaged, is full, recently expired, or is held by HM Passport Office or a foreign embassy.
Note: Emergency travel documents are generally not issued for non-urgent reasons such as holidays, weddings, family events, or job interviews. Each application is assessed individually, and you will need to provide evidence of the urgency of your journey.
When time is of the essence, knowing your options for expedited passport services in the UK is crucial. Whether you need a passport urgently for travel or other critical reasons, understanding the available services and their requirements can help you secure your passport efficiently.
For more detailed information, contact us to start your next adventure.
