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How to Renew a Child Passport UK

Until children reach 16 years old, you can choose to renew a child passport any time you like. You would not lose any time remaining on the existing passport providing it is not more than nine (9) months.

Renewing a Child’s Passport Online

In fact, you can use the normal passport application service to renew a child passport and pay for it online.

You will need to print off the application form and check the details. Send the form to the HM Passport Office address written on the form.

Renewing a Child Passport by Post

There are two ways to get the paper application form if you want to renew your child passport, or baby, by postal methods:

Passport Adviceline
Telephone: 0300 222 0000
Outside the UK: +44 (0)300 222 0000
Textphone: 18001 0300 222 0222
Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm
Weekends and public holidays: 9am to 5:30pm

If you use the paper form you will need to fill in sections 1, 2, 3, 4, and section 9. If your child is twelve (12) or older they will need to sign section six (6).

Note: You must apply for a new passport instead if your child’s name or personal details have changed. The HM Passport Office booklet explains how to fill in a passport application form and provide the correct photo.

There are two methods of sending in a child passport renewal application form. You can either:

  • Send the form, photos, and the documents by postal methods. If so, you can use the HMPO pre-printed envelope that accompanies the form.
  • Take the form, photos, and documents to the Post Office if you are using the Passport Check and Send service.

Signing the Passport Application Form

The person who signs the passport application must have parental responsibility for the child or baby. The child also needs to sign it if they are between twelve (12) and fifteen (15) years old.

Countersigning the Passport Application

You may need a ‘countersignatory’ to fill in section 10 and countersign one of the photos. It would be someone who knows you and your child so they can certify your child’s photo.

The countersignatory process applies if your child is eleven or under. You may also need it if their old photo does not show their current facial features (not recognised).

Documentation Required to Renew a Child Passport

When renewing a child passport in the United Kingdom you will need to send certain documents with the application form, including:

  • The existing (old) passport.
  • Two (2) ‘new’ photos of your child or baby (according to passport photos rules).
  • Any valid passports from a different country if they belong to the child.
  • Any court orders (e.g. describing residency arrangements or parental responsibility).

Choosing How to get Your Documents Returned

As a rule, HMPO send back the documents by regular postal services. But, you can choose to have them sent by secure delivery for a small fee (about £5). You can choose to use this option on the child passport application form.

ALSO IN THIS SECTION

How to get a Child Passport | A help guide on applying for a minor’s passports, renewals, and the fees.

Passport Services for the Disabled | Using free facilities and passport services if you’re blind or disabled.

Getting a Renewed Child Passport Back

In most cases, you will receive your replacement child passport by courier or through the Royal Mail. You will be able to track your passport application. When they deliver it to you, they will either:

Renewing a Child’s Passport in the United Kingdom