British Passport Application

Applying for a British Passport is the final step in your journey to UK citizenship. The British Passport serves as proof of your status as a British national.

Benefits of a British Passport

This passport will confirm your status as a UK national. It serves as a travel document, allowing you to enter and leave the country without immigration controls. It opens up work opportunities and educational pursuits. The passport also grants access to comprehensive healthcare and social services within the UK, underpinning a secure and supportive living environment.

British passports are not issued automatically. To apply for a British passport, you must initially hold British citizenship. Your eligibility and individual circumstances will undergo assessment during the application process.

How to Apply for a British Passport

You can apply for a British passport via several options:

Online:
This is the most cost-effective and straightforward method. The online application wizard will guide you through each step.
Post Office Check & Send Service:
Visit your local Post Office where they will verify your documents and send them to HM Passport Office (formerly know as Identity & Passport Service (IPS) via Special Delivery. The Post Office will charge you an additional fee for this service.
By Post:
Send your completed application and supporting documents directly to UKVI, ensuring you affix the correct postage to your envelope.
By Appointment with the Passport Office:
The 1-day Premium and 1-week Fast Track services require an appointment. You will need to visit the office with your fully completed application, photos, and supporting documents.
Applying from outside the UK:
If you are applying from outside the UK, you must follow procedures specific to the country you are applying from.

Can British passport applications be rejected or withdrawn?

British passports are the property of the UK Government and can be revoked or withdrawn at any time. There are several reasons for rejection, such as having court orders against you. Our immigration lawyers specialising in British passport matters can assist you through the process.

For a confidential consultation about your British application, contact our friendly immigration solicitors at Mulgrave law on 02072537248 or fill out simple form for a callback, below or click contact.

“Thank you, Alisha, for all your help and assistance with my journey to British citizenship and now my application for my British passport as well. I highly recommend Mulgrave Law.”

Important considerations when submitting an application for a British Passport

To avoid delays and potential refusals, ensure your form is correctly completed. Some considerations to take note of are:

Your passport name must match your documentation submitted.
If your name has changed, use your new name, list all previous names, and provide details of any former UK passports.
Applicants for an adult passport must be 16 or older (or will be within three weeks).
Submit original documents; photocopies are not accepted.
First-time applicants must provide a birth or adoption certificate (if born in the UK before January 1983), evidence of a parent’s immigration status (if born after January 1983), and a naturalisation or registration certificate (if born abroad).
Non-English / Welsh documents need a certified translation.
A countersignatory, who must meet specific criteria, is needed to confirm your identity unless the application is made online or from abroad.

How can immigration solicitors at Mulgrave Law help with your British Passport application?

Our immigration lawyers and solicitors can guide you through the entire application process. Once instructed, a dedicated immigration lawyer or solicitor will assist by:

Checking your documents to ensure they meet application requirements.
Communicating with the Home Office on your behalf.
Drafting a Letter of Representation to strengthen your application.
Completing your British passport application form to the highest standard.

Frequently Asked Questions about British Passport Applications

What are the UK Passport Fees in 2024?

Passport fee increases came into effect on 11 April 2024. The proposals, which are subject to parliamentary approval, will include the following: a standard online application made from within the UK will rise to £88.50 for adults and £57.50 for children. The latest fee updates can be found on the gov.uk website. https://www.gov.uk/passport-fees

Will I have to attend a passport interview?

If you are over 16 and applying for your first British passport, you may be required to attend an interview with the HM Passport Office formerly know as Identity & Passport Service (IPS). This interview typically lasts 30 minutes and aims to minimize identity fraud through verification of personal information.

Do I need a countersignatory if I am applying for my British Passport online or from abroad?

No, you will not need a countersignatory if the application is made from abroad or online.

I have additional questions. What’s the best way to reach out to immigration lawyers at Mulgrave Law?

We recommend that you take advantage of our free 30-minute consultation. This can be booked via the form above, by emailing us at info@mulgravelaw.co.uk, or by calling our offices at 020 7253 7248. Our lawyers will be pleased to assist you.