UK Passport Fees – What You’ll Pay for a British Passport

If you’re planning a trip abroad or need a new passport after a name change, the first thing on your mind is the price. UK passport fees can feel confusing because they change every year and differ by age, service speed, and where you apply. This guide breaks down the current costs, when you need to pay extra, and a few tricks to keep the bill low.

Standard Adult Passport Prices (2025)

For most adults (16 years and older) the standard 10‑year passport costs £86.00 when you apply online. If you prefer to use a paper form, the fee jumps to £93.00. The online route is cheaper and faster – the Home Office usually sends the new passport within three weeks.

Want a faster turnaround? The 1‑week Fast‑Track service adds £142.00 to the standard fee, while the 1‑day Premium service is about £200 extra. These options are handy if you’ve missed a flight or need a visa quickly, but they’re pricey, so only use them when you really have to.

Children, Seniors and Special Cases

Kids under 16 get a five‑year passport for £49.00 online and £58.00 by post. The fee stays the same whether your child is two or fifteen, so it’s a good idea to apply early and avoid a rush later.

People aged 75 or older can apply for a free passport if they hold a valid UK or EU passport already. If you’re over 75 and need a first‑time passport, the standard adult fee still applies.

There are also extra costs for things like lost or stolen passports (£75.00), name changes (£54.00), and adding a second child on the same application (£22.00). Keep these in mind when budgeting.

How to Save Money on Your Passport

First, always apply online. It’s the cheapest route and you can track your application in real time. Second, avoid the premium service unless it’s absolutely necessary – most people get their passport in time with the standard service.

Third, combine applications. If you and a partner need new passports, you can submit two online forms at once and pay only one £5.00 duplicate fee for the second document. Fourth, double‑check your photos and details before you submit. A rejected application means you’ll pay the fee again.

Finally, watch for government announcements. Occasionally, the Home Office runs a limited‑time discount or reduces fees for specific groups (e.g., veterans). Signing up for the passport newsletter keeps you in the loop.

What Happens After You Pay?

Once you’ve paid, the Home Office will send you a confirmation email with a reference number. Use that number to track progress on the gov.uk site. If you chose the standard service, expect the passport in the mail within three weeks. For fast‑track or premium options, you’ll be given an appointment at a local passport office.

When your passport arrives, sign the front page and check that all details are correct. If you spot an error, contact the passport office within two weeks – they’ll correct it at no extra cost.

Understanding UK passport fees helps you plan your travel budget without nasty surprises. Whether you’re renewing an old passport, applying for a child’s first document, or need an express service, these prices and tips give you a clear picture of what to expect.