If you do not need to travel within two weeks, then you do not need to visit a Regional Passport Office to make an urgent application. The Identity and Passport Service (IPS) recommends that you use the Post Office Check & Send service or simply use the standard service and apply by post. ‘Timetable for passport applications’ explains the various services and timescales in detail. You can learn more about the Post Office Check & Send service and find your nearest Check & Send Post Office by following the link below.

If you are applying for your first adult passport you need to allow more time than in the past, as in most cases you will need to attend an interview. See ‘Passport interviews’ for more information. IPS recommends you submit your application six weeks before you need to travel. Do not book any travel arrangements until you have received your new passport.

When renewing a passport you don't have to wait until your passport runs out. You can apply at any time. If there is any time left on your old passport, IPS will add it to your new passport, in whole months, up to nine months. IPS cannot carry over more than nine months from your old passport to your new one. You can renew your passport whenever you wish, but you must pay the full fee. No refund can be given for any unexpired time left in your old passport.

These times do not apply to first adult passports. You should allow six weeks for first adult passport applications as you will usually need to attend an interview.

By post - three weeks

IPS aims to return postal applications within three weeks of receiving them, provided you have filled in your form properly and sent the correct supporting documents.

If you do not do this IPS may not be able to issue you a passport in the expected time. For this reason IPS strongly advises you not to book any travel until you have your new passport.

Online applications - three weeks

The three-week guideline also applies to application forms submitted online.

IPS prints out your completed form and sends the paper copy to you to sign. As with postal applications, IPS does not officially receive the application until you have signed the paper form and sent it back with supporting documents.

Post Office Check & Send service - two weeks

This service is available through certain Post Office branches. Your application should take two weeks from the time the branch or agent accepts the application, not including bank and public holidays. This is not a guaranteed service and may take longer during busy times. IPS advises you not to book any travel until you have your new passport. The service is explained in detail in ‘The Post Office Check & Send service’. 

Applying in person at a Regional Passport Office - urgent applications

Fast Track one-week and Premium one-day services are available at Regional Passport Offices. They are only available for certain types of application. You need to make an appointment to use these services through the Passport Adviceline on 0300 222 0000. The line is open seven days a week between 7.00 am and 11.00 pm.

During busy periods it may not be possible to get an appointment at short notice. You should allow at least two weeks for your appointment date.

If your travel plans change after you have applied for a passport, you can request an upgrade to the Premium one-day service (renewals only). To request an upgrade, or for more details, including extra fees, you should phone the Passport Adviceline 0300 222 0000.

IPS will ask you for the barcode number of your application. If you have applied using the Check & Send service or in person at a Regional Passport Office, IPS will ask for the barcode number on the receipt you were given. Make sure you have the number ready to hand. An upgrade may not always be possible during busy periods.

The supporting documents that you enclose with your application are valuable. IPS advises you to send your application using Royal Mail Special Delivery. You are also advised to pay an extra £3 for your documents to be returned to you by Secure Delivery. IPS does not provide compensation for any loss or delay resulting from the use of Royal Mail first- or second-class services.