2 weeks Ago
Are you going on holiday soon? If you’re heading abroad, you’ll need to check that your passport is valid and contains all the correct details. If you have changed certain details, you’ll need to get a new one so it's worth knowing this ahead of your trip so you can apply. Here’s what we know about getting a new passport and making sure your personal details are correct.
It's important to note that the name on your passport must always match the name you use when you book your trip or holiday. UK passport renewal guide When you get a new passport, its expiry date will be in 10 years’ time and any left-over time on your previous passport will be scrapped. It will not carry over to your new passport.
Changes that will mean you need a new passport You'll need to get a new passport if you have changed your name or gender since you last applied for one. A new passport is also needed if your appearance has changed so that you are unrecognisable from your previous passport photo, for example, if plastic surgery has altered your face, you’ll need to get a new one. Do you need a new passport if you get a new address? If some of your other personal details change, you won’t need to get a new passport.
The government website explains which details can change without you needing to get a new passport. If your address or contact details change, you won’t need to change your passport. Do you have a new job? This won’t mean you need a new passport.
If you slightly change your appearance, such as dyeing your hair or growing a beard, you won’t need to get a new passport. Do I need travel insurance? The government website adds that if you “change your marital status (divorce, marry or form a civil partnership) but keep your name”, you’ll be fine to use your old passport. You also won’t need a new passport if you emigrate, become a national of another country (as well as the UK) or change your title to something like doctor or professor.
How to get a new passport A new passport can be applied for online via the government website (linked above) and will cost £88.50. If you'd prefer to apply by post, a new passport will cost £100.
Recommended reading: Who can get a new passport for free? See the criteria Why are passports different colours and what does each colour mean? How long does a passport last? How to check if yours is valid for travel Can a neighbour countersign your passport? Rules to follow You can get a paper form from a Post Office that has a Check and Send service or by calling the Passport Adviceline. Does my passport need to be countersigned? If you're changing your name or adding a title to your passport, you won't need to get a countersignature. However, the government website explains: "You must get a countersignature if your appearance has changed and you cannot be recognised from your existing passport.
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