UK Passport Fees Set to Rise Next Month – Get Your Renewals In Now!
UK passport holders are being urged to act fast as the government has announced an increase in passport application fees from 10th April. The new fees, which are awaiting parliamentary approval, will see the cost of both adult and child passports rise across a range of services provided by HM Passport Office.
If approved, standard online applications made within the UK will rise by 6.8% for adults and 7% for children. This means the cost of an adult passport will increase from £88.50 to £94.50 and a child passport from £57.50 to £61.50.
Postal applications will also see a hike, with adult passports increasing from £100 to £107 and child passports from £69 to £74. Those using the Premium Service (1-day) will face a steeper rise, with adult passports going up from £207.50 to £222 and child passports from £176.50 to £189.
For those applying from overseas, the cost of a standard online adult application will increase from £101 to £108, while child applications will rise from £65.50 to £70. The price for overseas paper applications will also increase, with adult passports going up from £112.50 to £120.50 and child passports from £77 to £82.50.
Rush in Applications Expected
With the price increases just around the corner, there are concerns that holidaymakers could trigger a surge in passport applications as they try to avoid the higher costs.
Swindon Travel Hub is advising anyone whose passport is nearing expiry to apply as soon as possible. Shaun from Swindon Travel Hub said: “We always recommend checking your passport’s expiry date before booking a trip, especially as many countries require at least six months’ validity. With these increases coming in April, now’s the time to get your renewal sorted and avoid paying more than you need to.”
How Long Does It Take to Renew a Passport?
The Home Office advises that 99.7% of standard applications within the UK were processed within three weeks last year, provided no additional information was required. However, processing times could vary depending on demand, especially if there’s a rush before the April increase.
Swindon Travel Hub’s Advice
With summer holidays approaching and passport fees about to rise, Swindon Travel Hub recommends checking your passport’s expiry date now and starting the renewal process if needed. Avoid the last-minute panic and secure your passport at the current price before 10th April.
