SUMMER’S on the way – and with it the rush for holiday bookings – but demand for passports is the highest it’s ever been.
Fast-track applications offer an alternative if you need one fast. Here’s all you need to know about applying, its cost, and how long it takes.
With Covid restrictions lifted and international travel bookings booming, demand for new passports is at an all-time high.
Because of this, the Government has warned that people looking to renew their passport may have to wait up to weeks.
But if you’ve got an urgent trip, or you just don’t want to wait that long, there is an alternative – for a price.
A fast-track service is available which allows you to pay extra and get your new passport more quickly.
Abi Tierney, director general of HM Passport Office, said: “Now that international travel has resumed, we know people will be looking at going away on holiday and yet many people are leaving applying for a passport too late.
“The summer holidays are fast approaching so if you need a new passport, we urge you to apply now.
“Our dedicated staff are working tirelessly to ensure that passport applications are processed as quickly as possible.”
In order to get one, you’ll have to get a form from the the Post Office.
It is not possible to apply online.
You’ll then need to fill in the application form and ensure that you have all the necessary documents for your appointment.
You can book your appointment here.
You will need:
If you can’t make the appointment, you can change it, or someone else to go on your behalf.
You can also change it at any time if you’re self-isolating or living with someone who has Covid-19 or Covid-19 symptoms.
You can call the Passport Adviceline to do so.
If you need to change your booking for another reason, you can do so, provided your appointment is more than 2 days away.
If someone goes instead of you, they’ll need to bring the photos, completed form and supporting documents.
Fast-tracking offers a marked reduction in the time it’ll take to get your hands on a passport, but be prepared to pay considerably more for the convenience.
The service will set you back around the double the normal cost of renewing, which is £75.50.
You can also spend a little bit more to buy a frequent traveller passport which has 50 pages, rather than the standard 34.
The price points are:
With Covid-19 curbs now lifted in the UK, there has been huge demand for flights this summer.
It’s coincided with a rush for new passports and the number of applications is the highest it’s ever been.
In April 2022, the Government was forced to issue urgent travel advice, with a warning that applications could take up to 10 weeks.
However, due to the extreme demand, many families have waited longer than that and have had to cancel their trips.
The fast-track service dramatically reduces the time you’ll wait, and takes just one week.
