Immigration Corner | How do I renew my British passport?

Dear Mr Bassie,

I would like to know what I need to do to renew my British passport. I am hoping that you can provide some assistance.

– SJ

Dear SJ,

Persons must renew their passport before they can travel if either their passport has expired or if they do not have enough time left on it. How much time they will need on the passport will depend on the country that they are visiting. It is advisable that persons check the entry requirements of the country that they would like to travel to before making a reservation.

It should be noted that there are different rules if the passport is lost, stolen or damaged or if the holder needs to change their name or personal details.

Please be advised that if the British passport is burgundy or has ‘European Union’ on the cover, persons can still use it as long as it is valid for travel.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

To renew the passport persons will need their old passport and any valid passports they have from a different country. They should send either a colour photocopy of every page, including the blank ones, or the physical passport.

Renew online

Persons can also use the “Renew online” service to renew their passport online. It cost £94.50 and persons will need to provide a digital photo; a credit or debit card; and their passport. Please note that this service is also available in Welsh.

RENEW USING A PAPER APPLICATION FORM

Please be aware that person can get a paper application form by either going to a Post Office that has a “Check and Send” service or by calling the Passport Adviceline. It should be further noted that it costs £107. The persons applying can make payment by either using debit or credit card – fill in the form in the application pack or by cheque – made payable to ‘HM Passport Office.’ Persons will also need two new and identical printed photos of themselves.

Unexpired visas

With respect to unexpired visas persons should send their previous passport with the visa attached to it with their application. Please note that the previous passport will be returned and the individual will be able to use the visa if they carry both passports. Just for completeness, it should be noted that the rules pertaining to this are different if travelling to Russia.

I hope this helps.

John S. Bassie

John S. Bassie is a barrister/attorney-at-law who practises law in Jamaica. He is a justice of the peace, a Supreme Court-appointed mediator, a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a chartered arbitrator, the past global president of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a member of the Immigration Law Practitioners Association (UK). Email: lawbassie@yahoo.com