You need to read this page along with Applying for a UK passport in the country you are in to have all the information you need to apply for your passport.

The basics

There is a single application process when applying:

• for your first UK passport
• to renew your UK passport
• to replace a UK passport.

There are different forms to use for adults and children. British Nationals (Overseas) who have a connection with Hong Kong have their own application forms.

People born on or before 2 September 1929 are eligible for free UK passports. They must be use the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) application form to apply for this passport. These forms are available from your local embassy, consulate or high commission.

Make sure you use the right form. You must also make sure that you complete it correctly.

Our staff will not be able to process your application and there may be a delay in issuing the passport if you use the wrong form or do not complete it properly.

All full, new UK passports use facial biometrics. You must make sure that the passport photographs you provide meet the required standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Read rules for passport photos and download the IPS Guide to taking a good photo for your passport Please note that when you are making an application for a British passport overseas, the background of the passport photograph required can be white. The photographs also do not have to be printed plain white photographic paper. This differs from IPS requirements, but otherwise the information in the link is correct.

Applying for a passport overseas

If you are a UK citizen you can apply for a UK passport at many British embassies, consulates and high commissions.

The documents and information you need to provide when applying for a passport varies for different countries. But the application process within each country is the same. You can find out about the exact information and which documents you will need to provide when making your passport application from our 'Passport Documents' page.

Applying for a passport in the UK

The Identity and Passport Service (IPS) deals with all passport applications for UK residents living in Britain.

However, if you are resident overseas, but are visiting the UK, you can also renew your passport during your trip.

To renew your passport while you are in the UK, you need to make an appointment to do this in person with the Identity and Passport Services (IPS). You also need to provide the IPS with a residential address in the UK so they can post your passport to you. You will have to be available to that address to sign for the passport when it is sent to you.

More information about the Identity and Passport Service

Interview

You may be asked to attend an interview as part of your passport application.

Some first time adult applicants will have to attend a compulsory interview. A small number of other applicants may also have to attend an interview.

The purpose of the interview is to make sure that the applicant is who they say they are.

The interview is one of a number of changes by the UK Identity and Passport Service that aim to improve the integrity and security of UK passports by helping to:

• fight passport fraud and forgery
• protect the UK public from identity theft
• ensure that UK passports remain secure and respected throughout the world.

Our staff will inform you if you have to attend an interview after you have sent in your passport application.

The application process

Print and complete the correct application form. Use the guidance notes to help you. We accept forms printed in black and white. You can also pick up application forms in person from UK consulates, embassies or high commissions.

Make sure you write your initials in the box on each page of the form that says ‘Please initial here’. We will not be able to process your application if you do not do this.

If the applicant is unable to write, they can use their thumbprint instead. However, they must also provide a letter from a responsible counter-signatory such as a doctor or a relative, giving the reasons why the applicant cannot sign their initials.

Provide 2 identical passport photographs taken in the last month. The photographs must meet the Identity and Passport Service standards

Submit your completed applications form, your 2 passport photographs, your supporting documents and, where applicable, your previous passport along with the correct fee in local currency to the relevant British embassy, consulate or high commission. You may also need to include a postal or courier charge.