UK Passport Cost 2026

UK Passport Fees 2026 — Full Fee Schedule

Fees correct as of February 2026. Source: HM Passport Office / gov.uk

How to Apply for a UK Passport in 2026

Online Application (Recommended)

The fastest and cheapest way to apply is online at gov.uk/renew-adult-passport. You will need:

• A digital photo (taken within the last month, meeting strict gov.uk guidelines)
• Your current or most recent passport (if renewing)
• A debit or credit card for payment
• Your National Insurance number (for identity verification)

Paper Application

Available from the Post Office, the application form is PS1 for adults and PD2 for children. Paper applications cost more and take the same time, so online is almost always preferable unless you have specific reasons to apply by post.

Processing Timeline

• Standard (online): approximately 3 weeks
• 1-Week Fast Track: 1 week (must attend a passport office appointment)
• Premium same-day: issued the same day at a Passport Office (appointment required)

Passport Validity: UK Rules for EU Travel

Since Brexit, UK passport rules for travel to the EU and Schengen Area have changed significantly. You must now meet two conditions:

1. Your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years on the date you enter the EU.
2. Your passport must have at least 3 months validity remaining after your planned departure date from the Schengen area.

The old rule where passport offices added up to 9 months of extra validity no longer counts for EU entry. If your passport was renewed early and shows extra months, those extra months are ignored by EU border control.

Working Abroad: 6-Month Validity Rule

Many countries outside the EU (including USA, Canada, and several Asian destinations) require at least 6 months of passport validity beyond your intended departure date. Always check the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) guidance for your specific destination before travelling.

Adult vs Child Passport Validity

• Adult passport: valid for 10 years
• Child passport (under 16): valid for 5 years

Passport Photos: Requirements and Where to Get Them

UK passport photos must meet strict requirements set by HM Passport Office:

• 45mm high by 35mm wide (physical prints)
• Taken within the last month
• White or off-white background, plain and uniform
• Face must be fully visible, no sunglasses or tinted glasses
• No shadows on face or background
• Neutral expression, mouth closed
• Eyes open, clearly visible and looking directly at camera

Where to Get Passport Photos

• Post Office: digital photos taken on-site, integrated with online application
• Boots pharmacies: photo booths available in most large stores
• Snappy Snaps: professional photos with guarantee of acceptance
• Online apps (e.g., Passport Photo Online, iPhoto): take at home with your phone, cheaper (~£5-9) but must meet all requirements

Countersignatory Requirements

If you are applying for a first passport, applying for a child's passport, or your appearance has changed significantly, you may need a countersignatory. This is someone who:

• Has known you (or the child's parent) for at least 2 years
• Is a British or Irish citizen, or a person accepted by the Passport Office
• Has a professional or business standing (teacher, doctor, lawyer, police officer etc.)
• Is not related to you by birth or marriage

Renewing online generally does not require a countersignatory for adults.

Children's Passports: Key Rules

Children under 16 must have their own passport — they can no longer be added to a parent's passport. Key points:

• Both parents (or those with parental responsibility) typically need to consent
• Children aged 12 or over must sign their own passport application
• If only one parent has parental responsibility, proof may be required
• Child passports last 5 years (not 10)
• Cost: £57.50 online, £69 by post

Dual Nationality

The UK permits dual nationality. British citizens are allowed to hold passports from other countries simultaneously. However, note that some countries (e.g., Japan, China) do not permit dual nationality — check the specific rules of the second country before applying for a second nationality or passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

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