Fast Tracking Passport Applications

Published by Rana Zubair posted in General on 9 September 2020

Due to coronavirus disruption, it is currently taking up to six weeks to renew or replace a passport online. It can take even longer if you apply by post or if applying for a first adult passport. Their offices and the premium and fast track services are currently closed.

However, you may be able to get a passport urgently to travel for compassionate reasons or work, or to prove your identity. For example, if you are applying for a job, mortgage or benefits.

Compassionate reasons to travel include:

you or someone you care for needs urgent medical treatment in another country
a family member or friend in another country is seriously ill or has died

Valid reasons for urgent travel to another country could apply if, for example, you work:

for an airline or haulage company
offshore, for example on a rig
for government or local government and you’re doing business abroad
in healthcare
for social services and you need to travel with children
for the armed forces or the police

You can pay for a faster service if you need a passport within the next 3 weeks.

You need to book a passport office appointment and pay online. You can book an appointment up to 3 weeks in advance.

If you need a passport to travel urgently for medical treatment or because a friend or family member is seriously ill or has died,

Check current coronavirus (COVID-19) travel advice before travelling. If your passport application is successful, it does not mean you’re currently allowed to travel.

Source: HM Revenue & Customs Wed, 09 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0100