AS summer approaches, many will need to renew their passports before jetting off to their dream destinations.
From the renewal process to passport costs – we have everything you need to know.
How to renew a passport
If you're planning on packing your bags and jetting off to a dreamy destination – then first you should check if you need to renew your passport.
There are two reasons you may need to do so – your passport has expired, or you don't have enough time left on it.
It's important to note that how much time you need on your passport will vary depending on the country you are visiting.
You can check the entry requirements of your chosen travel destination here.
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It is also important to know that you can still travel with a red passport that has ‘European Union’ written on the front – as long as it's valid.
With all that in mind, the next step is to apply for a passport renewal – and here's how.
There are two ways to renew your passport – online and via a paper form.
Both are priced differently and vary in the way they are completed.
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First up we explain how to renew a passport online.
Gather the relevant documents you need
The first step is to gather all the necessary documents you will need to complete the online form.
This includes a digital photo, a credit or debit card and your current passport.
Locate the form and fill in the questions
To locate the form you simply have to visit the government website and type in ''passport renewal''.
This will then take you to the relevant page where you will be given clear instructions.
You will then find a green button that says ''Renew online'' – click here and the online form will appear.
You will be guided through the form and asked to answer a number of questions.
Upload digital photos
Once you have answered the first set of questions, you will then be asked to upload your photos.
You can do this by going to a photo shop or booth, taking your pictures, and choosing to receive a code.
Once you have a code, all you have to do is enter this on your application and the photo will appear on the screen.
You can also use the option of submitting a digital photo taken at home.
You will need someone to help take the photo using a camera, smartphone, or tablet.
All photo's submitted must meet the necessary requirements and have a countersignatory if needed.
Pay securely
Once all questions have been answered and your passport photos are uploaded, you will then be guided to submit a payment method securely.
You can do this using either a credit or debit card.
Send your old passport back
At the end of the application process, you will be given an address where you can send your old passport.
Your old passport is one of the supporting documents needed to carry out your passport renewal.
Therefore, you will need to send it back to the Passport Office as part of the renewal process.
Alternatively, you can renew your passport via a paper form – but it will cost more to do so.
Here's how to renew your passport using a paper application form.
Pick up a paper application
You can get a paper application form by either going to a Post Office that has a Check and Send service, or by calling the Passport Adviceline.
It’s less likely that your application will be rejected if you use Check and Send.
Digital Check and Send includes the cost of the photo – it costs £16.00 on top of the passport application fee.
Paper Check and Send does not include the cost of the photo – it costs £16.00 on top of the passport application fee and the cost of your photos.
Fill out the form
You should complete the paper form in CAPITAL LETTERS and BLACK BIRO only.
Make sure you don’t write outside the white boxes or outside the signature borders.
Follow the instructions clearly to guide you to each section you will need to complete.
Include two identical photos
You must include two identical recent photographs.
These must meet the required photo guidelines and have a countersignatory if needed.
Pay the fee
There are a number of ways to pay the renewal amount when applying via a paper form.
According to the government website, Post Office Passport Check and Send service will accept debit or credit cards, postal order and cash.
Cheques are not accepted.
If you're applying by post, you can complete the form in the application using your debit or credit card details.
Cheques or postal orders are payable to 'HM Passport Office.
Cash is not accepted.
Return current passport and send off the form
You should take your completed paper application form, photos, and any supporting documents to the Post Office.
As stated above sending your old passport back is part of the renewal process.
Therefore, you will need to send it back to the Passport Office along with your form.
Using Check and Send to do this is usually faster than posting your own application.
How long does it take to renew a passport?
The HM Passport Office advises applicants to allow up to ten weeks to receive a passport.
Turnarounds will differ if you're applying from another country.
Alternatively you can use a fast-track service for an increased cost, which we explain in more detail below.
How much does passport renewal cost?
Prices for renewal of a passport will vary depending on the type of passport you are applying for and the way you complete your application.
It costs £82.50 to renew or replace an adult passport if you apply online or £93 if you fill in a paper form.
The cost of renewing a child's passport online is £53.50 and £64 by post.
Can I fast-track passport renewal?
The good news is you can fast-track a passport renewal.
This service offers an alternative option if you need a passport quickly.
In order to get one, you'll have to get a form from the Post Office – it is not possible to apply online.
Make sure to fill in the application form and that you have all the necessary documents.
Then book your appointment online and pay the fee.
You can book your appointment here.
You will need the following documents to hand.
- Two identical printed passport photos.
- The completed paper application form
- Supporting documents – this booklet provides information on what you'll need
This service will cost £155 for an adult passport (or £166 for a 50 page frequent traveller passport) or £126 for a child passport (or £137 for a 50 page frequent traveller passport).
Renewing your passport via the fast-track option will dramatically reduce waiting times, taking just one week.
What should I do if my passport isn't renewed on time?
The government website clearly states: ''Do not book travel until you have a valid passport.''
The renewal service does not have a guaranteed turnaround time – so you're not eligible for a refund or compensation if it takes longer than ten weeks.
According to money saving expert, Martin Lewis, ''If you can't go on your trip because you don't have a valid passport, you're NOT entitled to a refund from travel providers, as they're still offering the service you booked.
''The exception is if you were promised the right to cancel and get a refund while booking.
''But even if your booking wasn't flexible, it's still worth contacting your holiday provider to explain the situation to see if it can help.''
Alternatively, you can call the passport advice line on 0300 222 0000.
You can also write to the Passport Office following the instructions in its complaints procedure if your application was delayed due to an error by the Passport Office.
It's important to note that compensation is NOT payable where the delay was because additional checks had to be made or where the delay was caused by a third party.
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Does my passport number change when I renew my passport?
The answer is yes – your passport number will change when you update your passport.
You can find your new passport number on the first page of your passport, underneath your photo and personal details.
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