Opening Times
You know that moment – you’ve booked the trip and started picturing yourself there… and then it hits you. Your passport. Is it still valid? Close to expiring? Or slightly worse for wear after a few too many adventures?
It’s not the most exciting part of travel planning, but it’s one of the most important. The good news is, renewing your passport these days is far less hassle than it used to be. No forms spread across the kitchen table. No rushing to a photo booth that never quite gets it right. Just a straightforward online process you can do from your sofa.
Start with a quick passport check
Before you go any further with your plans, take a minute to check:
- When does your passport expire?
- Does your destination require extra validity? (Many ask for 6 months)
- Is your passport still in good condition?
If anything looks off, it’s worth renewing now rather than later. Future you will be grateful.
Can you renew your passport with an app?
It’s a bit of a yes-and-no situation. There isn’t a single official app that handles the whole process. To renew your UK passport, you’ll need to go through the official GOV.UK website.
But apps can still make life easier, especially when it comes to your passport photo. Taking a compliant photo is often where things go wrong. That’s where passport photo apps step in. They guide you through taking the picture and check if it meets the rules before you upload it.
So while the application itself happens online, a good app can save you time (and a bit of frustration).
What is the quickest way to renew a UK passport?
The quickest and easiest way to renew your passport is online through the official GOV.UK service.
You’ll need your current passport, a digital passport photo, and a debit or credit card. You can take your photo at home using your phone, or use a photo booth or shop that provides a digital image. To make sure it meets the requirements, check the guidance here: https://www.gov.uk/photos-for-passports
Once you start your application, you’ll be guided through each step. You’ll fill in your personal details, upload your photo (or enter a photo code), and pay securely online.
After applying, you’ll need to send your old passport by post. You’ll be given clear instructions on how to do this, and you can track your application online from start to finish.
Most passports arrive within around three weeks once your old passport has been received, although it can take a little longer during busy periods.
How much is the UK passport renewal fee?
The passport renewal fee depends on how you apply and what type of passport you want. As of 2026, the fee for a standard passport renewal is:
- £102 online for adults
- £66.50 online for children
If you apply by post, it costs:
- £115.50 for adults
- £80 for children
You can pay by debit or credit card online or by cheque if you apply by post. You may also have to pay additional fees if you need an urgent or premium service.
What documents do I need to renew my passport in the UK?
To renew your passport in the UK, you’ll need:
- Your old passport
- Any valid passports you have from a different country – send either a colour photocopy of every page (including blank ones) or the physical passport
- A digital passport photo that meets the requirements
You only need to provide other documents if your name or personal details have changed since your previous passport was issued. In that case, you’ll need to provide proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate or deed poll.
For more information on what documents you need for different situations, visit https://www.gov.uk/changing-passport-information.
What the process actually looks like
If you haven’t renewed in a while, you might be pleasantly surprised. Here’s how it typically goes.
1. Take your photo
You can do this at home with your phone. Find a plain background, stand in good light, and keep your expression neutral.
If you want extra reassurance, a photo app can check everything’s spot on and even give you a code to use.
2. Fill in your details online
Head to GOV.UK and follow the renewal steps. You’ll need your current passport and some basic details.
The form is clear and guides you through it, so you’re not left guessing. You can also save your progress if you get interrupted.
3. Pay the fee
An adult online renewal currently costs £102.
Once you’ve paid, you’ll get confirmation straight away.
4. Send off your old passport
After applying, you’ll be told how to post your current passport securely.
From there, you can track your application, so you’re not left wondering where it’s up to.
How early can I renew my passport?
You can renew your passport at any time – there’s no need to wait for it to expire.
In fact, it’s a good idea to renew it well in advance of your trip. While most online applications are processed in around three weeks, it can take longer during busy periods.
It’s also worth knowing that any time left on your old passport is no longer added to your new one. Your new passport will be valid from the date it’s issued, so renewing early won’t extend its expiry date.
Before you travel, always check the entry requirements for your destination. Many countries require at least six months’ validity on your passport, and some ask for a certain number of blank pages.
For the latest information, you can visit the FCDO travel advice pages online.
Do I have to send my old passport when renewing a UK passport?
Yes. You’ll need to send in your old passport when you renew. This helps prevent identity theft and ensures your old passport is cancelled correctly. You should send your old passport by post using the pre-printed envelope that comes with your online application confirmation.
If you have any unexpired visas in your old passport, you can still use them as long as you carry both passports when you travel. The rules are different if you’re travelling to Russia – you’ll need to get a new visa in your new passport.
Do I need a countersignature for a passport renewal?
You don’t need a countersignature for a passport renewal if you can still be recognised from the photo in your existing or recently expired passport.
You may need someone to countersign for you if:
- You’re changing your name or personal details
- You’re replacing a lost, stolen or damaged passport
- You’re applying for your first adult or child passport
- You’ve had significant changes to your appearance that make it hard to recognise you
The countersignature must be someone who has known you personally for at least 2 years, is not related to you, and has a current UK passport. For more information on who can be a countersignature and what they need to do, see https://www.gov.uk/countersigning-passport-applications.
A few things that can trip people up
The process is straightforward, but there are a few common hiccups worth keeping an eye on:
- Passport photo issues – Shadows, the wrong background, poor lighting, or even a slight smile can lead to your photo being rejected and delay your application.
- Small mistakes in your application – Typos in your name, an incorrect passport number, or missing details can slow things down if not caught early.
- Forgetting to send your old passport – It’s an easy step to miss, but your application won’t move forward until it’s received.
- Leaving it too late – Applying too close to your travel date can add unnecessary stress, especially during busy periods.
A quick final check before you submit can make all the difference and help everything run smoothly.
One step closer to your trip
Once your passport is sorted, everything starts to feel a bit more real. You’re not just planning anymore – you’re actually going.
It’s one of those small jobs that makes a big difference. With it out of the way, you can focus on the good stuff, like choosing what to pack and planning what to do while you’re away.
And while you’re getting everything in place, it’s worth thinking about travel insurance too. It’s there for the unexpected moments, so you can relax and enjoy your trip knowing you’ve got a bit of backup if you need it.
Because the best trips aren’t just well planned – they’re well protected.
