Have you booked your summer holiday already this year? Have you checked your passport is valid for your destination? I did exactly this and was so very glad I did- even though passport does not expire until 2026, it would have been more than 10 years since issue when I travel- aaaaggh! Luckily I’ve got the time to get a replacement but have you? Here’s how you can apply for a passport (get one last minute) and why the new 10 year passport rule is worth knowing,
How to apply for a passport
Apply online at https://www.gov.uk/apply-renew-passport to use the standard service or fill out a paper form from the post office. You’ll need a credit or debit card to use the online service. New fees came in to effect on 10th April 2025. For adults 16 and over it’s £94.50 for online applications, £61.50 for children and £107 for paper forms, £74 for children. Use of the Post Office Check and Send services costs an extra £16.
You should allow at least 10 weeks for the arrival of your new passport. However it is advisable to submit applications as far in advance as possible to avoid complications should delays occur especially when peak summer season is just around the corner.
If you need a passport urgently you can select the option for a Fast Track Service or Premium service. If you’re abroad and need to travel urgently to get home you can apply for an Emergency Travel Document.
What are the new passport rules?
There are two important NEW validity checks you need to make before travel:
- Your passport must be no more than 10 years old on the day you arrive in the EU
- Your passport must have at least 3 months left to run from the day you leave to return to the UK
Passport validity rules do vary from country to country so it is worth checking the actual status quo before travel.
Ensure all details are entered correctly on application forms for passports as mistakes can prove costly to rectify both time and money-wise.
Keep costs to a minimum by applying online, check it yourself or ask family/friends to do so and order it well in advance of travel. Watch out for scam copycat sites which charge additional processing fees.
I hope this information helps. If you’d like to hear more tips and tricks consumer rights and travel wise, I’m also over on TIkTok, Facebook, Instagram, X and Linkedin.
Happy travels!
