How long will it take for my passport application to be processed?
Times for applications to be processed vary depending on which service you
choose*:
Postal application = we aim to return postal applications
within three weeks of receiving them. Please note: from
1 June 2007, this service is no longer available to first-time adult applicants
as an interview is required as part of the application process. We recommend
they allow six weeks for the return of their passport.
Check & Send
service (available at Post Office branches) = two
weeks
Fast Track service (available
by appointment only at passport office counters) = guaranteed one-week service. Please note: from 1 June 2007, this service is no longer available to first-time adult applicants as an interview is required as part of the application process.
Premium service ** (available only for passport renewals, by appointment only at passport office counters) ** = guaranteed same-day service. Please note: from 1 June 2007, this service is no longer available to first-time adult applicants as an interview is required as part of the application process.
* First-time adult passport
applicants will require an interview at a passport office as part of their
application process.
** This service is not available to first-time adult passport applicants, lost, stolen or damaged passport applications, when a child is applying for their first adult passport or applicants who have had a total change of name - i.e. forename and surname.
24-hour Passport Adviceline: 0300 222 0000 (see terms and conditions). Calls made to 0300 numbers from landlines and mobile phones are charged to customers at their network provider's national rate. Live operators are available to assist with your enquiry 24 hours a day.