1. Executive Summary & Online Renewal Process
Renewing a British passport online is the standard lower-cost application route through HM Passport Office (HMPO) on GOV.UK. Urgent services such as 1-Week Fast Track and 1-Day Premium are available separately for eligible applicants.
2. Step-by-Step Online Renewal Matrix
The table below details the online renewal workflow:
| Step | Action Required | Key Requirement / Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Get Digital Photo | Get digital photo or photo code from retailer | Plain expression and a plain light-coloured background |
| 2. Apply on GOV.UK | Fill out online form & enter photo code | Complete the online application and pay the current £102 adult standard fee |
| 3. Post Old Passport | Mail old passport to address provided by HMPO | Send the passport using the delivery method and address HMPO gives you; follow the application instructions for secure posting |
| 4. Receive New Passport | Track application online until courier delivery | HMPO returns the new passport and cancelled supporting documents separately where applicable |
3. Updating eVisas & Foreign Visas After Renewal
Because your passport number changes upon renewal, update your UKVI account with the new passport details if you hold an eVisa. Incorrect UKVI passport details can cause carrier or border delays. Any ESTA, eTA or other foreign travel authorisation should be checked separately under the issuing country's rules.
4. Overseas British Passport Renewal Procedures
British citizens living abroad can apply through the GOV.UK overseas passport service where eligible. The application method, documents to send, submission location and delivery arrangements vary by country. HM Passport Office uses secure international delivery arrangements, including DHL for certain international document returns.
5. What Happens to Your Old Passport and Existing Visas
When HM Passport Office authorises your renewal, your old British passport is cancelled and is normally returned separately. If the old passport contains an unexpired foreign visa, GOV.UK says the old passport can generally be carried together with the new passport so the visa can continue to be used, although the destination country may have its own rules.
6. Renewing Before Expiry and Passport Validity
You can renew a passport before it expires if you need a new passport or do not have enough validity for your planned destination. Since September 2018, HM Passport Office no longer adds the unused months from an expiring passport to the new passport. Standard British passports are normally valid for up to 10 years for adults and 5 years for children, subject to the type and circumstances of the passport issued.
Essential Summary & 2026 Checklist
- Online standard renewal costs £102 for adults and £66.50 for children.
- HM Passport Office advises checking current processing times; in 2025, 99.7% of standard UK applications requiring no further information were processed within 3 weeks.
- Your old passport is a required supporting document for an ordinary renewal and must be sent as instructed by HMPO.
- Digital photo codes let you retrieve a photo from a participating booth or shop directly in the online application, but the photo still has to meet HMPO rules.
- Update your UKVI account with your new passport details if you hold an eVisa, and separately check any foreign travel authorisations before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions (6)
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