Change in Passport Application Turnaround Times

Travellers should not delay in applying for a British Passport and should allow up to 10 weeks for all UK application types to be processed.

While it is still illegal to travel overseas HMPO (Her Majesty’s Passport Office) are urging travellers to apply for their passports now so that when international travel does resume, nothing will prevent them from travelling.

HMPO stated that “While all applications will be processed as quickly as possible, people should now allow up to 10 weeks when applying for their British passport to help manage this demand.”
  
Director General of HMPO, Abi Tierney, said “This new advice will help to ensure that we continue to meet the travel plans of our customers during any period of the very highest passport demand.” 
 
Those planning on visiting a European destination once travel recommences are advised to check if they need to renew their passport before travelling.

HMPO will be sending text messages to people whose passports are nearing expiration to allow them more time to renew, but it is advised for people to check their passports if they are planning to travel this year.

International travel will not be allowed until 17 May at the earliest. It will be confirmed in advance whether leisure travel can resume on 17 May, or whether people will need to wait longer before lifting the outbound travel restriction.

HMPO have advised that Applying online is the cheapest and easiest way to obtain your passport.

If you have any questions or queries about this, please speak to your Account Manager.