Have you ever found yourself staring at an empty drawer, heart racing, only to realise your passport is missing or damaged just days before an important trip? It’s a nightmare that many UK travellers face.
Whether your passport has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, the urgency and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, understanding the official UK process for replacing your passport can ease the stress.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll walk through the steps to replace a passport, the time it takes, what it costs, and what options you have if you need it urgently.
Backed by the latest government data and official guidance, this blog answers your most pressing questions and provides practical insight to make the process as smooth as possible.
What Is the Cost to Replace a Passport in the UK?
Replacing a UK passport in 2025 is relatively straightforward in terms of pricing. The cost will depend on how you apply and the urgency of your request.
Online and Paper-Based Application Fees
The standard fees for renewing or replacing an adult passport are:
| Application Method | Cost |
| Online Application | £94.50 |
| Paper Form (via Post Office) | £107.00 |
What Does the Fee Cover?
The fee includes standard processing and delivery by Royal Mail or courier. It’s important to understand that these costs are for standard service only.
Additional charges apply if you opt for urgent services such as the 1 Week Fast Track or the 1 Day Premium.
Online vs Paper Application
Online Application
This is the more popular method due to speed and convenience. It requires a digital photo and payment via credit or debit card. The system guides you through uploading your photo and confirming your identity if needed.
Paper Form Application
Paper applications can be picked up at the Post Office or requested by calling the Passport Adviceline. You’ll need two printed photos and a countersignatory in most cases. This method is slightly more expensive and can take longer.
Who Can Apply for a Replacement Adult Passport?
To apply for an adult passport replacement in 2025, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements.
Age and Identity Criteria
- You must be aged 16 or over, or turning 16 within the next three weeks.
- If you are under 16, a different process applies for child passports.
UK Residents vs Overseas Applicants
If you’re living abroad, there’s a separate process for replacing a UK passport. Applicants should refer to guidance specific to their country of residence through the appropriate UK embassy or consulate.
Identity Confirmation
If you’re replacing a lost or stolen passport, you’ll need to confirm your identity online. This typically involves someone else (a countersignatory) confirming your details.
When Should You Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport?
Knowing when your passport qualifies for replacement is crucial. It’s not only about misplacing it, physical damage can also make it invalid for travel.
Lost or Stolen Passport
If your passport has been lost or stolen, it must be cancelled immediately. This prevents fraudulent use and ensures your safety. After cancellation, you can apply for a replacement.
Damaged Passport: What Counts?
A passport is considered damaged if it has:
- Illegible personal details
- Torn, cut, or missing pages
- Holes or rips in the cover
- A cover that’s coming apart
- Visible stains or water damage
Why It Matters?
Border officials may deny you boarding or entry with a visibly damaged passport. Replacing it before travelling is not just recommended, it’s essential.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Replacement Passport?
Timing is everything when travel is involved. Understanding the different timelines available can help you avoid delays or disruptions.
Standard Processing Time
As of 2025, the standard service takes up to 10 weeks from the day the application is received. However, most passports are issued well before that, often within three to six weeks.
Fast Track and Premium Options
If you can’t wait that long, there are urgent services available:
| Service Type | Delivery Time | Cost | Who Can Use It |
| 1 Week Fast Track | Delivered in 1 week | £178 | Adult and child renewals |
| 1 Day Premium | Ready in 4 hours | £222 | Adult renewals post-2001 only |
Important Considerations
- Do not book travel until your passport arrives.
- Your replacement will have a new number.
- Delivery methods vary based on the service type.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport/replace
What Are the Urgent Passport Replacement Options?
HM Passport Office offers two primary urgent replacement services for those in a rush.
1 Day Premium Service
This is the fastest option, but only available for renewing adult passports issued after 31 December 2001.
How It Works?
- Book an appointment at a passport office
- Bring your old passport
- Collect your new passport 4 hours after your appointment
Cost: £222 or £235 for a 54-page passport
1 Week Fast Track
Available for both adult and child passport renewals, replacements, and first child passports.
Steps Involved:
- Book an appointment
- Bring your necessary documents
- Receive the passport by courier within 1 week
Cost:
| Passport Type | Cost |
| Adult | £178 |
| Child | £145 |
| 54-page option | +£13 |
How to Replace a Passport Online?
Replacing a passport online is quick, cost-effective, and user-friendly.
What You’ll Need?
- A digital passport-style photo
- A credit or debit card for payment
- Confirmation of identity if lost or stolen
Once completed, you’ll receive email updates and can track your application online using a reference number.
Advantages of Online Replacement
- Lower cost at £94.50
- Faster processing
- Easy tracking and fewer manual steps
How to Replace a Passport Using a Paper Form?
If online access is a challenge or you prefer traditional methods, you can apply using a paper form.
Where to Get the Form?
- Visit your local Post Office
- Call the Passport Adviceline to have one posted
Documents and Process
- Provide 2 identical printed passport photos
- A countersignatory must sign the form and one photo
- Send the completed form to the address listed on it
Cost and Payment
- Standard fee: £107
- Pay using debit/credit card or cheque to ‘HM Passport Office’
Can You Track Your Replacement Passport Application?
Yes, tracking your application is a simple yet vital feature that helps ensure everything is on schedule.
How to Track?
Use the reference number provided during your application. You can check the status online through the official tracking tool.
When to Use It?
- To verify application receipt
- To see if your passport has been dispatched
- To know if there are delays
How Will the New Passport Be Delivered?
Your new passport is dispatched via courier or Royal Mail. The delivery method varies slightly depending on your location and the type of service used.
Possible Delivery Scenarios
- Posted directly through your letterbox
- Handed over if someone is at home
- A delivery notice is left with instructions (will not state it’s your passport)
The packaging is discreet to avoid security risks. Be sure to follow up if you miss the delivery using the details on the card.
What If You Can’t Attend Your Passport Appointment?
Sometimes attending an urgent service appointment isn’t possible. In such cases, someone else can attend on your behalf.
What They’ll Need?
- Your old passport
- A signed and dated letter from you authorising them
- Their own photo ID, such as a driving licence
This process is particularly helpful for those with mobility challenges or tight schedules. Ensure the person you send understands the requirements and responsibilities.
Conclusion
Whether it’s due to a forgotten bag, unfortunate theft, or a soaked suitcase, losing or damaging a passport is never convenient.
But thanks to the UK’s structured and streamlined system, replacing it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. From standard services to urgent options, HM Passport Office has catered to a variety of needs and timelines.
Make sure to choose the right application method based on urgency, budget, and personal preference.
Always double-check your travel plans and leave enough time for processing. With the right preparation, you’ll have your new passport in hand and your journey back on track.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after losing my passport?
You should report and cancel it immediately through the official HM Passport Office services to prevent unauthorised use.
Can I apply for a replacement passport from abroad?
Yes, UK citizens can apply for a replacement from overseas by following the relevant process via their local British embassy or consulate.
Is my new passport number the same as the old one?
No, every replacement passport is issued with a new passport number, different from the one on your old passport.
How do I confirm my identity if I lost my passport?
You will need someone to confirm your identity online as a countersignatory if you are applying due to a lost or stolen passport.
Can I get a child’s replacement passport urgently?
Yes, you can use the 1 Week Fast Track service to replace or apply for a child’s passport urgently.
What if I need help completing my application?
You can contact the Passport Adviceline or use the Post Office Check and Send service for assistance with your application.
What happens if I miss my courier delivery?
If you’re not at home, a delivery notice will be left explaining how you can collect your passport or reschedule delivery, though it won’t specify that the package contains a passport.