Travel Tips Tips

How to get a fast-track passport in the UK

Alex Beaney
Alex Beaney
26.06.24 (last updated)
Read time 3 minutes

Getting ready for a holiday but you’ve only just realised your passport needs renewing? Or perhaps your passport has been lost or stolen? Luckily, there is such a thing as a fast track passport here in the UK.

This is where you book an appointment, and receive your new passport much more quickly than using the standard application process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your options for getting a fast track passport. We’ll cover how long it takes for it to be issued, the overall cost and much more.

We’ll even throw in a handy tip for your upcoming trip - the Wise card. It’s designed for low-cost spending around the world, automatically converting your pounds to the local currency at the mid-market exchange rate.

Please see the Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise fees & pricing for the most up-to-date information on pricing and fees.

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When do I need to renew my UK passport?¹

Here are some cases when your UK passport needs to be renewed:

  • If your passport is expired
  • If your passport will expire soon
  • If you’ve had your passport for more than 10 years (when entering all EU countries except Ireland)

There are also some cases when you need to get a new passport instead of renewing your old one. For instance, if you’ve significantly changed your appearance or have changed some personal details, such as your name or gender.²

If your passport is damaged or has been stolen, you should apply for a replacement.³

How long does it normally take to get a new passport?

With the standard service, it takes up to 3 weeks to receive your new passport. It can take longer than that if you need to go through an interview or provide additional information.⁴

How do I get a fast track passport in the UK?⁵

If you’ve decided to get a fast-track UK passport, there are two options, depending on how urgent it is. You can choose between the 1 week fast track and 1 day premium service.

You can book an appointment up to 3 weeks in advance in either case.

1 Week Fast Track Passport⁵

The first option for getting a UK passport in a hurry is the 1 week fast track service. You can use this to renew an adult or child passport, replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport, or change some personal details.

To apply, you’ll need to do the following:

  1. Answer some questions regarding your eligibility
  2. Book your fast track passport appointment
  3. Pay the fee
  4. Upload your digital photo
  5. Have your old passport ready

The earliest appointment you can get is on the day after you apply. Your new passport will be delivered to your home address within a week of your appointment.

The 1 week fast track service costs £166.50 for an adult passport, or £135.50 for a child. If you’re applying for a frequent traveller passport, the prices are £178.50 and £147.50.

1 Day Premium Service⁵

The 1 day premium service is only available when renewing an adult passport. The earliest possible appointment you can get is 2 days after you apply. There is no waiting time and you’ll get your new passport at the appointment.

The 1 day premium service costs £207.50 or £219.50 for frequent traveller passports.

Am I eligible for fast track passport services?⁵

If you’re applying for your very first passport, you’ll need to complete the standard procedure instead of the fast one. Only those who already have passports can use the fast track service.

Also, you can’t apply for a fast track passport if you’re outside the UK.

Wise – International debit card for low-cost spending abroad

Want to spend like a local on your holiday? You can use the Wise card in 150+ countries without worrying about unfair exchange rates and hidden fees. The Wise card can be used for any international payments, including accommodation costs and daily expenses.

It automatically converts the currency at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee. You can also use it to easily withdraw money from the ATMs while travelling. You can make 2 withdrawals of up to 200 GBP each month for free per account.

Please see the Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise fees & pricing for the most up-to-date information on pricing and fees.

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Sources used:

  1. BBC - UK passport: How much does it cost to get or renew and what is the 10-year rule?
  2. Gov.uk - Change your name or personal details on your passport
  3. Gov.uk - Renew or replace your adult passport
  4. Gov.uk - About our services
  5. Gov.uk - Get a passport urgently

Sources last checked on date: 22-May-2024

*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.

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