If you are staying outside the UK and your British passport has expired or you’ve lost it, you can apply online without having to visit a local embassy to request and wait for it.

 

 

How do I apply for a passport renewal outside the UK?
 
The application for a British passport is very straightforward and has three simple stages:



 

What if I lose my passport?

If your passport is lost or stolen you will need to cancel it as soon as you can. Cancellation can also be processed by a third party if you are unable to complete the process yourself.
When reporting a stolen passport to the local police, ask for a written report which may be needed by the British Embassy or your travel insurer, the Post Office notes.
 
The processing times for adult online applications depends on the type of the application, but it may take up to 10 weeks to process the standard online application.





 
If you aren’t able to get a passport in time for your planned return, you can apply for an Emergency Travel Document which will allow you to travel through a maximum of five countries to your final destination. Your planned route details will be printed on the document and it will be kept by border officials if you are returning to the UK.

To apply for an emergency passport, you must be able to provide evidence of a British citizen, evidence of loss, theft or damage of your passport, and a booking confirmation (or detailed written travel plan if you cannot book in advance).
 

What are the rules for passport photos?

You will need to provide digital photos every time you renew your passport for an online application. The photo must have been taken within the last month.
Photos must be clear and in focus, in colour, and contain no other objects or people. Photos that appear to have “red-eye” will not be accepted, and backgrounds must be plain and light coloured.

Nothing should cover your face, and there should be no shadows. Glasses should be removed if possible, as well as head coverings unless worn for religious or medical reasons.
Digital photos should be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels in height. The file must be at least 50KB but no more than 10MB.

Print photos should be 45mm high and 35mm wide, the standard size for images printed at UK photo booths. The images must be printed to a professional standard, and not be creased or torn. When posted, the images should be separated from one another, and not attached to the application form.
 
 
What documents should I submit?
 
You need to ensure that you send all the necessary documents for your application. If you do not include all your supporting documents, your application will be delayed. If you are requested missing or additional documents, you will need to send them within 6 weeks, otherwise, the application will be withdrawn and the application fee will not be refunded.

The supporting documents depend on the type of application you are making.
If you apply for passport renewal, you must submit your current British passport, a full copy of your passport, and identity documents.
If you apply for a passport replacement due to the loss of your passport, you must submit at least one document to prove your identity and have a person confirm your identity and address. The documents as evidence of name and UK address are as follows.
 









 

Additional documents for Child passport renewal

If the person who applied is not the parent of the child subject to the application, one of the following documents must be submitted.

You must submit a court order related to the care of the child you are applying for, for example, a court order that provides or removes parental responsibilities and rights.

If the person applying for the passport is a testamentary guardian, there must be supporting documents explaining that he has been nominated as a testamentary guardian of the child, including a copy of the will and death certificate. If a child is protected by social services, a letter (or equivalent letter) must be submitted confirming that a social worker has parental responsibility for the child.
 
You can get your passport on time by completing the application online without any mistake, verifying the photo meets all the requirements and providing the necessary evidence. You should be aware, however, that there are currently delays due to Covid-19. For this reason, it is recommended that you submit your application as early as possible.

If you need advice or assistance with applying for a passport renewal, please leave us a message or contact 020 3865 6219.