APPLYING FOR A PASSPORT?

If you are 16 or over then you may be affected by changes that are happening to British Passports. From late autumn this year, all first time applicants for an adult passport will be required to attend an interview at a local office. This will enable the Passport Office to confirm your identity.

While the majority of you will already hold a passport, for those of you who don't, the process will take a little longer and this needs to be taken into the account when planning your travel.

Bear in mind, first time applicants who currently hold a five year child passport will not need to attend an interview.

What do you need to do?

Prevent disappointment:
If you’re a first time adult applicant (aged 16 or over), you’ll have to attend a face-to-face interview at a local office. The interview is simply intended to prove that you are who your form claims and will last approximately 20 minutes.

Avoid delays
Follow the instructions in your passport application. Pack carefully enclosing all necessary fees and documents. In particular, make sure your photo meets Identity and Passport Service guidelines as they will be used to provide facial biometric information for the chip in your passport. If your photo is rejected it will take longer to process your application and you could miss out on your holiday.

Plan ahead
If you already hold an adult passport, check it hasn’t run out before booking your holiday – it is best to allow 4-6 weeks for your passport application. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to get your new passport before you travel.

For further information on passport applications call the Passport Adviceline on 0870 521 0410 or visit www.passport.gov.uk