Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Passport in England?

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Passport in England?

Applying for a passport in England is a straightforward process when you know which documents you need, how to complete the application, and what happens after you submit it. A UK passport allows British citizens to travel internationally and serves as an important identity and nationality document.

For people applying from England, passport applications are handled through HM Passport Office. Most applications can be completed online, although you can also apply using a paper form.

This guide explains how to apply for a passport in England step by step, including eligibility, documents, passport photos, application fees, identity checks, processing times, urgent applications, common mistakes and frequently asked questions.

Important: England does not have a separate English passport. If you are a British citizen living in England, you apply for a UK passport.

Who Can Apply for a UK Passport in England?

You generally need to be a British national to apply for a British passport.

If you are applying for your first adult passport, you can apply when you are aged 16 or over, or when you will turn 16 within three weeks. If you have never had a UK passport before, you will normally need to follow the first adult passport application process.

Children under 16 have a different application process. A person with parental responsibility normally applies for the child’s passport.

If you are not a British citizen, simply living in England does not automatically make you eligible for a UK passport. Your nationality or immigration status determines whether you can apply.

How to Apply for a Passport in England Step by Step

Step 1: Check Which Passport Application You Need

Before starting your application, identify your situation.

You may need to:

• Apply for your first adult passport
• Renew an existing passport
• Apply for a child’s passport
• Replace a lost or stolen passport
• Replace a damaged passport
• Change personal details on an existing passport

The requirements can differ depending on your circumstances.

For example, someone applying for their first adult passport may need to provide evidence of their British nationality and identity. Someone renewing an existing passport may have a different document requirement.

Choosing the correct application type at the beginning can help avoid delays.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

For a first adult passport, the basic requirements include being a British national, being aged 16 or over or turning 16 within three weeks, and not having previously held a UK passport.

If you already have a child passport, you may continue using it until it expires, even after turning 18. However, when you need an adult passport, you may need to follow the appropriate adult application process.

If you have dual nationality, additional rules can apply. For example, the name and gender shown on your non-British passport must match the details you want on your British passport in certain dual-national applications.

Step 3: Gather Your Passport Documents

One of the most important parts of a UK passport application is preparing the correct supporting documents.

The documents you need depend on your personal circumstances, including where you were born and how you obtained British nationality.

For example, a person born in the UK may need a full birth or adoption certificate and, depending on their date of birth, evidence relating to a parent’s British nationality or immigration status.

Someone born outside the UK may need documents such as:

• A naturalisation or registration certificate
• A birth certificate
• A previous passport
• Evidence of a parent’s British nationality
• Parents’ marriage certificate in certain circumstances

HM Passport Office says original documents are required rather than photocopies. If a document is not in English or Welsh, a certified translation may be required.

Why Are Passport Documents Important?

Your documents help HM Passport Office establish your identity, nationality and eligibility.

Before submitting your application, check that:

• Names are spelled correctly
• Dates are accurate
• Documents are original where required
• Supporting evidence matches the information in your application
• Translations meet the required standards where applicable

If your circumstances are unusual, check the specific government guidance before submitting the application.

Step 4: Get a Suitable Passport Photo

A passport application requires a photograph that meets the official passport photo requirements.

For an online application, you generally need a digital photo. GOV.UK says you can use a device that takes digital photographs or have someone take the photo for you.

Your photo should meet the required standards for:

• Appearance
• Lighting
• Background
• Facial position
• Image quality
• Visibility of your face

Avoid using an old, poor-quality or heavily edited photograph.

A photo that does not meet the requirements can cause problems with your application.

Step 5: Apply for Your Passport Online

For most people in England, applying online is the simplest option.

You can use the official online passport service to start the application, provide your information and pay the application fee.

For a first adult passport, you will need:

• A digital passport photo
• Someone who can confirm your identity
• Supporting documents
• A debit or credit card for payment

During the application, you may be asked for information about yourself and your parents.

You should enter all information carefully and check it before submitting the application.

What Information May You Need?

Depending on your circumstances, you may need information such as:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Current address
• Previous names
• Parents’ details
• Previous passport information
• Nationality information

The exact questions depend on the type of application.

Step 6: Confirm Your Identity

For some first adult passport applications, another person must confirm your identity.

When applying online, you provide the details of someone who can confirm your identity. After you submit and pay for the application, that person receives instructions from HM Passport Office about what they need to do.

This identity confirmation is an important security measure.

Make sure the person you nominate is eligible to confirm your identity and is able to complete the process promptly.

If you apply using a paper form, the process is different. A countersignatory may need to complete the relevant section of the form and sign and date one of your passport photographs.

Step 7: Send Your Supporting Documents

After completing your online application, HM Passport Office will tell you which supporting documents you need to send.

Do not send documents that are not requested unless the guidance specifically requires them.

For some applications, original documents are required. Photocopies are generally not accepted for the required original evidence.

If you apply using a paper form, you normally send:

• Completed application form
• Supporting documents
• Two identical printed passport photographs
• The photograph signed and dated by the countersignatory where required

Keep records of what you send and use the required delivery method.

Step 8: Pay the UK Passport Fee

The cost of a passport depends on the type of application and how you apply.

As of September 2026, the standard UK fees listed by GOV.UK include:

These fees apply to standard applications made in the UK. Urgent services cost more.

Online applications are cheaper than standard paper applications.

Because passport fees can change, check the current GOV.UK fee before paying.

Step 9: Wait for Your Passport Application to Be Processed

Once HM Passport Office receives your application and any required documents, your application is processed.

Processing time can depend on the application and whether additional information is required.

The government advises applicants to apply well before travelling. In 2025, 99.7% of standard UK applications that required no further information were processed within three weeks, according to HM Passport Office.

However, this does not mean every application will be completed within three weeks.

Delays can happen if:

• Information is missing
• Documents are incorrect
• Your identity needs further verification
• HM Passport Office needs additional evidence
• You are asked to attend an interview

For this reason, it is better to apply early rather than wait until your travel date is close.

Step 10: Attend an Interview If Required

Some applicants may be asked to attend a passport interview to confirm their identity.

For first adult passport applications, HM Passport Office may contact you after processing has started if an interview is necessary. Current government guidance says video interviews are taking place online.

An interview does not necessarily mean there is a problem with your application. It can simply be part of the identity verification process.

If you are contacted, follow the instructions provided by HM Passport Office.

Step 11: Receive Your UK Passport

After your application is approved and the passport is produced, your new passport is delivered to you.

GOV.UK states that new passports are sent by courier or recorded delivery, while supporting documents are normally returned separately.

When you receive your passport:

1. Check your name.
2. Check your date of birth.
3. Check your photograph.
4. Check other personal details.
5. Make sure the passport belongs to you.
6. Keep it in a secure place.

If you notice an error, contact the appropriate passport service rather than attempting to alter the document yourself.

Can You Apply for a UK Passport by Post?

Yes. You can apply using a paper passport application form.

Paper applications cost more than standard online applications and generally take longer to apply for than online applications.

You can obtain a paper application form through participating Post Office locations or the Passport Adviceline.

You can also use the Post Office’s Check and Send service, which provides additional help with the application.

Can You Get a UK Passport Quickly?

Some urgent passport services are available, but eligibility depends on the type of application.

Fast Track services can provide a faster route for eligible applicants. The current government fee information lists a UK adult Fast Track service at £192 and a Premium service at £239.50 for applicable applications.

However, there is an important exception: you cannot use the urgent Fast Track service to apply for a first adult passport. GOV.UK states that first adult applicants must use the standard service.

Therefore, if you are applying for your first adult passport, it is particularly important to apply well ahead of your planned travel.

What If Your Passport Is Lost or Stolen?

If your UK passport has been lost or stolen, you should report it to the relevant passport authorities as soon as possible.

A lost or stolen passport should not simply be treated like a normal renewal because the document needs to be cancelled to reduce the risk of misuse.

You will normally need to apply for a replacement passport after reporting the loss or theft.

What If Your Passport Is Damaged?

A damaged passport may need to be replaced rather than used for international travel.

Damage can include serious problems affecting the passport’s pages, cover, personal details or security features.

If your passport is damaged, check the official replacement guidance before travelling.

Do not attempt to repair, laminate or alter the passport yourself.

What If You Are Not a British Citizen?

Living in England does not automatically give someone the right to a UK passport.

A British passport is issued to eligible British nationals. If you are living in England under a visa, settled status or another immigration route but are not a British citizen, you may need to use your existing national passport or another eligible travel document.

If you later become a British citizen through registration or naturalisation, your passport application may require evidence of that status.

For people who became British citizens through naturalisation or registration, HM Passport Office may require the relevant certificate and other documents depending on the circumstances.

How to Avoid Common UK Passport Application Mistakes

A small mistake can lead to additional questions or delays.

Before submitting your application, check the following:

1. Check Your Name

Make sure your name is entered correctly and consistently with your supporting documents.

2. Check Your Date of Birth

An incorrect date of birth can create problems during identity verification.

3. Use the Correct Photo

Do not submit a photo that fails the official requirements.

4. Provide the Correct Documents

Read the document requirements carefully before sending anything.

5. Check Your Application Before Payment

Review every answer before completing the application.

6. Apply Early

Do not wait until just before your holiday or business trip.

7. Keep Evidence of Your Application

Keep confirmation emails, reference information and records of documents you send.

UK Passport Application Checklist

Use this simple checklist before applying:

• Check whether you are eligible.
• Identify the correct passport application.
• Prepare your supporting documents.
• Obtain a suitable digital or printed passport photograph.
• Gather information about yourself and your parents where required.
• Choose an identity confirmer if required.
• Complete the online application.
• Check all information carefully.
• Pay the correct passport fee.
• Send requested supporting documents.
• Complete an interview if HM Passport Office asks you to.
• Track your application where available.
• Check your passport when it arrives.
• Store your passport securely.

FAQs

How do I apply for a passport in England?

You normally apply for a UK passport through HM Passport Office. Most people can apply online by providing personal information, a digital photo, supporting documents and payment. Some applicants can apply using a paper form.

Is there an English passport?

No. England does not issue a separate English passport. Eligible British citizens living in England apply for a UK passport.

How much does a UK passport cost?

As of September 2026, a standard adult 34-page UK passport costs £102 when applying online or £115.50 using a paper application. Child and frequent-traveller passport fees are different.

How long does a UK passport take?

Processing times vary. The government advises applicants to apply in good time before travelling. In 2025, 99.7% of standard UK applications requiring no further information were processed within three weeks, but individual applications can take longer.

Can I apply for my first adult passport online?

Yes. Eligible first adult applicants in the UK can apply online. You will generally need a digital photograph, supporting documents, payment and someone who can confirm your identity.

Can I apply for a passport by post?

Yes. Paper applications are available, although they cost more and generally take longer to apply for than online applications.

Do I need an interview for a UK passport?

Not everyone needs an interview. HM Passport Office may ask some applicants to attend an interview to confirm their identity. For first adult passport applications, interviews can currently take place online by video.

Can a non-British citizen get a UK passport?

Not simply because they live in England. UK passports are issued to eligible British nationals. If you are not a British citizen, you generally need to use your existing nationality’s passport or another appropriate travel document.

Can I get a UK passport urgently?

Urgent services are available for certain applications, but a first adult passport cannot be obtained through the Fast Track urgent service. First adult applicants should use the standard process and apply early.

What documents do I need for a UK passport?

The documents depend on your circumstances. They can include birth or adoption certificates, naturalisation or registration certificates, previous passports and evidence relating to your parents. HM Passport Office tells applicants which documents are required for their particular application.

Final Answer

The process of applying for a passport in England is essentially the process of applying for a UK passport.

The basic steps are:

Check eligibility → choose the correct application → gather documents → prepare your passport photo → apply online or by post → pay the fee → confirm your identity → send supporting documents → complete an interview if required → wait for processing → receive your passport.

For most applicants, the online application is the straightforward option. However, the exact requirements depend on whether you are applying for your first adult passport, renewing an existing passport, applying for a child, replacing a lost or damaged passport, or applying based on British nationality acquired through registration or naturalisation.

The most important advice is to check the latest GOV.UK requirements before applying, provide accurate information, submit the correct documents and apply well before your planned travel date.

A carefully prepared application can help you avoid unnecessary delays and make the UK passport application process easier to manage.

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