UK passport price hike: last chance to renew before February hike
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UK passport price hike: last chance to renew before February hike

By Judy J. Beasley

The price for UK passport applications is about to increase, so here’s how you can renew yours before the increase.

From February 2, new passport fees will be introduced for all applications, including those who have just applied or who are renewal of their passport.

The changes were announced on the government’s website which informed the public that the increase was necessary to help the Home Office “continue to improve its services”.

Here’s everything you need to know about getting your new passport and what the new fees will be.

Why is the UK government raising the price of passport renewals?

The government’s webpage reads: ‘The new fees will help the Home Office move towards a system that covers its costs through those who use it, thereby reducing reliance on general taxation funding.

“The government does not profit from the cost of passport applications.

“The fee will also contribute to the cost of processing passport applications, overseas consular support, including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing UK citizens to British borders.”

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When should I renew my passport?

You must renew or replace your passport if it has expired or if you have run out of time.

The time remaining on your passport changes depending on the country you are visiting.

You can check the entry requirements for the country you wish to travel to by visiting the UK foreign travel advice website.

If you still have a European Union or Burgundy passport, you do not need to replace the passport as long as it is valid for travel.

It is important to note that there are different rules in case your passport is lost, stolen or damaged.

How to replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport

Damaged passports

The UK government says that if your passport has “more than reasonable wear” you should replace it as you may not be allowed to travel with it.

lost or stolen

If your passport is lost or stolen, you should cancel it as soon as possible.

The UK government advises it to “reduce the risk of someone else using your passport or identity”.

Before February 2, it costs £75.50 to renew or replace your passport if you apply online or £85 if you complete a paper form.

How long does it take to get a UK passport?

The government advises you allow up to 10 weeks for your new passport, but this may vary depending on where you are applying from, for example.

You can book online or with a paper form from Swiss Post for the standard service.

However, you can also use the Online Premium and Fast Track service for an additional fee.

Also, if you need a passport for urgent travel in humanitarian circumstances, you can contact the Passport Advice line.

How much will UK passports cost from February 2023?

The cost of a standard adult online application made in the UK will increase from £75.50 to £82.50.

Meanwhile, the free child passport under the same conditions will increase from £49 to £53.50.

The change will also affect postal applications which will drop from £85 to £93 for adults and from £58.50 to £64 for children.

It is the first time in five years that the cost of applying for a passport has increased, the interior ministry said.

Judy J. Beasley
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