How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport in the UK?
When it comes to processing and waiting time, there are several important factors to bear in mind. Whether you’re applying for a first-time adult or child passport, or going through the renewal process, overall terms will differ. That said, the passport office offers some options (such as expedited and premium services) that help plan ahead and get documents sooner.
All in all, there are four different scenarios (and two options to expedite the process)–click on your scenario to get an estimate of how long you will have to wait.
Processing Times
How Long Does It Usually Take to Get a Passport?
In the year 2022, when international travel wasn’t restricted anymore, the HM Passport Office faced so many post-COVID applications that it had to increase staff numbers by hundreds in order to handle the unprecedented demand. Back then, the official wait times were up to 10 weeks, and many had to wait even more than that. There have also been delays connected with the strikes that took place more recently.
According to the government, however, getting your travel document today takes about 3 weeks. This, however, seems to be the worst-case scenario in most cases. While this waiting time applies to all applications (i.e. it doesn’t matter if it’s the first time or you need passport renewal), it can still be influenced by several factors. For example, it depends on the type of application and how you apply–and can change based on specific circumstances.
HM Passport Office does not publish shorter official times for specific application types — always plan around the standard guidance below.
Before we go into details, please remember that the best practice is to plan your journey using the worst-case scenario. Yes, it’s very likely that you get your new passport in less than 3 weeks but don’t take it for granted. For all we know, HMPO might have some additional questions for you, go on another strike and so on and so forth.
When planning, allow at least 3 weeks for the standard service, plus extra time in case HMPO needs more information. If your vacation is in six months or less, start preparing now!
How Long Does It Take to Renew an Adult Passport?
Renewing an adult passport uses the same standard service as other UK applications: you will usually get your passport within 3 weeks. It may take longer if HMPO needs more information or an interview.
How Long Does It Take to Get a New Passport?
The answer to this one will also change depending on the circumstances. First adult passport applications use the standard service: you will usually get your passport within 3 weeks. Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged passport may qualify for the 1 week Fast Track service if you apply urgently online — otherwise the standard time applies.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Child Passport?
Child passport applications use the standard service: you will usually get the passport within 3 weeks. Child passports may be eligible for the 1 week Fast Track service.
How Long Does a Passport from Abroad Take?
In this case, the overall processing time can vary a lot depending on your location and the local processing times at the UK embassy or consulate where you apply. One thing can be said for sure: it will take longer than the usual procedure done solely by the passport office in the UK. Therefore, it’s advisable to start the process and send in your documents well in advance of your travel plans when applying from abroad.
Is It Quicker to Get a Passport Online or by Post?
The UK government offers a convenient service allowing you to get your passport online. Although the difference in processing duration will hardly be dramatic (the passport office doesn’t even specify it), applying online is usually more convenient and cheaper than paper.
Having applied for your new passport online, you will at least save the time you would have spent on a visit to a post office in person.
How to Expedite Passport: Options
Expedited Service and How Long It Takes
For those who require a travel document as soon as possible, HMPO offers a 1 week Fast Track service. You apply and book online; your passport is usually delivered by courier about one week after your appointment (the earliest appointment is the next day after you apply).
Please note that the one-week option cannot be used to get a first adult passport. You apply online at gov.uk: apply, pay, and book an appointment at a passport office. You cannot use this service if you are outside the UK.
Needless to say, this one-week service comes at a significant extra charge. Still, it’s a convenient option if you have immediate travel plans or other urgent requirements.
Online Premium Passport Service and How Long It Takes
Currently, this is the fastest way to receive your passport.
To use this option, you’ll need to answer a series of questions (to make sure you can use it in the first place), book an appointment to get your passport, take a digital photo by yourself, submit your application online and pay the fee.
By the way, we can help you with that digital picture. With us, you’ll get a 100% compliant UK passport photo in a minute or two.
The earliest appointment is 2 days after you apply. At your appointment (about 10 minutes), you hand in your old passport; your new passport is usually ready to collect about 4 hours later (1 day Premium service). This option is for adult renewals only and costs £239.50 (being a premium service designed for those with extreme urgency, it costs even more than the one-week option).
A Wrap-Up
Understanding the waiting times for different applications is essential to plan your holiday effectively. Whether you choose the standard processing time or opt for a quicker service, having a valid ID is an absolute must. So, don’t wait longer than necessary and don’t count on a certain date for your documents to arrive at your address! Simply apply today to ensure you have everything you need when you book any holiday plans.
For more information and instructions, check the official passport office website for the most accurate processing information. Also, make sure to share this post with people who may also need to find out how long it takes to get a passport in the UK. Enjoy your holiday!