UK Passport: Set To Increase By 7% In April 2024
UK passport application fees are set to rise again in April.
While the changes are technically subject to parliamentary scrutiny, it's unlikely they'll be blocked.
The Home Office, which runs the Passport Office, says the new fees will help it to improve its services. It's the second year in a row that British passport application prices have increased following a 9% rise in February 2023.
The government stated that the upcoming fee hike will help to reduce the strain on taxpayers and improve the overall service. These costs will be used to process applications, assist with consular services overseas, and make the procedure easier for British people at UK borders.
Here's how the fees are changing:
- a standard online application made from within the UK will rise to £88.50 for adults and £57.50 for children
- a standard postal application will increase to £100.00 for adults and £69.00 for children
- a standard online application when applying from overseas will rise to £101.00 for adults and £65.50 for children
- a standard paper application when applying from overseas will increase to £112.50 for adults and £77.00 for children
The increased fees apply to both new passport applications and renewals.
Application type | Current fee | New fee from 11 April |
Online (standard) | ||
Adult | £82.50 | £88.50 (+£6) |
Child | £53.50 | £57.50 (+£4) |
Paper Form (standard) | ||
Adult | £93 | £100 (+£7) |
Child | £64 | £69 (+£5) |
Fast track (one-week service) | ||
Adult | £155 | £166.50 (+£11.50) |
Child | £126 | £135.50 (+£9.50) |
Premium (same-day service) | ||
Adult | £193.50 | £207.50 (+£14) |
The same fees apply regardless of whether you're applying for your first passport, renewal or to replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport. |
Is It Worth Renewing Early To Avoid The Fee Increase?
It's worth noting that if you renew your passport before it expires, the time left on it is no longer added on to the expiry date of your new passport. This means renewing early is not a straightforward decision.
Remember that British passports are typically valid for 10 years. If your passport is still valid for a significant amount of time, renewing early might not be necessary, especially if you're not planning any international travel in the near future.
We recommend that if you have less than 10 months left on your current passport, it could be worth renewing now.
Also, factor in the processing time for passport renewal. Renewing early can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you have a valid passport ready for any unexpected travel opportunities that may arise.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual circumstances and priorities.
Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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