Passports

You have to hold a valid passport to enter or leave the UK. You may also need a visa to travel to other countries.

If you are travelling to another country from the UK, your passport may need to be valid for your whole trip. You should renew your passport before you travel if it is due to expire while you are away.

You may also have to attend an interview as part of the process of applying for a passport.

All new, full UK passports use facial biometrics. Your passport photographs will have to meet a required standard set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

'How to apply for a UK passport' sets out the passport application process and what you need to do. 'Applying for a UK passport' explains specifically what you must do to apply for a UK passport in the country you are in. You need to read both pages to have all the information that you need to apply for your passport.

How to apply for a UK passport

There's a single process for applying for your first passport or to renew or replace it if you are a UK resident living overseas.

Applying for a UK Passport.

Find out which office to use and what supporting documents you should provide when applying for a UK passport in the US.

Biometric passports

Linking biometric information to the passport holder is a security measure that helps to combat identity fraud.

Passport documents

There are different documents and information that you'll need to provide depending on the type of passport you are applying for.

Passport forms

The forms for applying for a new passport or to replace or renew your passport are different. Make sure you use the right form.

Passport fees

There are different costs depending on the type of passport you are applying for.

Lost or stolen passports

You need to report the loss of theft of your passport to the police and to our staff.

Passport FAQs

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UK Passport Service for the Americas and Caribbean

The UK Passport Service for the Americas and Caribbean issues passports for British Citizens visiting or resident in the USA and the countries listed here. All applications must be made through the UK Passport Service for the Americas and Caribbean, Washington.

Passport enquiries and fees

All passport enquiries are handled by our Passport Information Helpline (Careline).

Passport fees can be found here. Please note postage fees will vary depending on where you are applying from.

Useful links

eligibility? see our FAQs section

UK in the USA