How to Apply for a UK Passport

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Whether you're applying for your first UK passport or updating information on your existing passport, there are several factors to consider before beginning the application process. If you approach your application with the proper documents, acceptable photographs, and important identification information, you can breeze through the process and have your passport in hand in no time.

Part 1 of 3:

Gathering Required Documents and Photos

Step 1 Confirm that you have British nationality.

Step 2 Locate your birth.

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Step 3 Gather any additional identification documents.

Step 4 Take a photo of yourself within one month of submitting the application.

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Filling Out the Passport Application

Step 1 Use the online application form to save time and money.

Step 2 Pick up a passport application from your local Post Office.

Step 3 Fill out a first British passport application if you

Step 4 Apply for a renewal if you have an undamaged passport.

Step 5 Request a replacement for a lost, damaged, <a href=or stolen passport." width="460" height="345" />

Step 6 Use the

Step 7 Have a countersignatory verify the legitimacy of the application.

Step 8 Sign the application in all of the indicated areas.

Sign the application in all of the indicated areas. Do your best to keep your signature within the boundary of the boxes. If you make too many errant marks outside of the indicated area, you may have to fill out a new application.

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Submitting the Completed Application

Step 1 Use the Passport Check and Send service to double-check your application.

Step 2 Pay the fees associated with your application method.

Step 3 Mail your application and all supporting documents to the HM Passport office.

Step 4 Wait 6 weeks for your application to process.

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Community Q&A

My UK passport is lost and expired and I live in the USA. How do I get a new UK passport? Community Answer If you want to get a new passport, go to the British embassy and apply for one there.

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I don't have British nationality and have a Sudanese passport. Can I get a British passport? Community Answer

You can, provided that you live in the UK for at least a few years. If you are married to a UK citizen, you'll be able to get a British passport faster.

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I was born in the UK. Parents both born in UK. Have an old British passport expiry 1983. Live in United states, became citizen. Would like to apply for British passport again. How can I do that.?

Maura Behan Community Answer

To regain your British passport, verify your eligibility based on being born in the UK to British-born parents. Gather essential documents including your old British passport, US naturalization certificate, and birth certificate. Complete the application form available online or at a British embassy, providing passport-sized photos meeting UK specifications. Submit your application along with required fees to the UK authorities, then await processing which typically takes several weeks. Once approved, your British passport will be issued, either delivered by mail or available for pickup at the embassy, allowing you to reclaim your British citizenship documentation.

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