To renew your passport, the process depends on your country of citizenship. Here are the general steps for U.S. and UK passports:
For U.S. Passport Renewal
Eligibility:
- Your most recent passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- It is undamaged (other than normal wear and tear).
- It is in your possession.
- It was issued in your current name or you can provide legal documentation of a name change.
If you meet these criteria, you can renew your passport by mail or online. Renew Online:
- Create an account at the official U.S. Department of State site.
- Complete the renewal application online.
- Upload a digital photo.
- Pay the renewal fee.
- Track your application status online.
Renew by Mail:
- Complete Form DS-82.
- Include your most recent passport.
- Include a new passport photo.
- Include the renewal fee.
- Mail the application to the address on the form using a trackable USPS service.
Processing can take up to three months, so renew early
. If you do not meet the eligibility for mail or online renewal (e.g., passport issued before age 16, lost or damaged passport), you must apply in person using Form DS-11.
For UK Passport Renewal
Eligibility:
- Your passport has expired or does not have enough validity for travel.
- You are aged 16 or over.
Renew Online:
- Upload a digital photo.
- Pay the fee (£94.50).
- Provide your current passport details.
- The new passport is sent by courier or Royal Mail.
Renew by Paper Application:
- Obtain a paper form from a Post Office or Passport Adviceline.
- Submit two identical passport photos.
- Pay the fee (£107).
- Mail the application with your current passport.
You must send your old passport with your application; it will be returned separately. Check the entry requirements of your destination country regarding passport validity
. If you are outside your home country, check with your local embassy or consulate for specific instructions and processing times. For example, U.S. embassies abroad offer passport renewal services with typical processing times of 4-6 weeks
. In summary, renew your passport by confirming eligibility, completing the appropriate application (online or paper), submitting your current passport and photos, paying the fee, and mailing or submitting the application as instructed.
