Here's How You Can Renew Your Passport In 10 Minutes
All that hassle of filling out dozens of pages to get a new passport is soon to be a thing of the past. Yes, that’s right, the Home Office is moving to the digital age and is now allowing you to renew your passport online! The best part? It’s only going to take you 10 minutes. How good is that? Before you jump for joy though, here’s a few things you need to know about the 10 minute passport renewal.
Can I really renew my passport online?
Yes! Just hop over to www.gov.uk/apply-renew-passport and begin the process there.
What about if I need a new passport?
If you’re applying for your first passport, unfortunately you can’t apply online yet. Also, if you’ve lost your passport or had it stolen you still have to go through the old fashioned process of filling out the form and posting it off.
How do I upload a photo for my passport?
Well, you can easily upload a photo using your smartphone or tablet. This still has to be a suitable photo and adhere to all passport photo guidelines but it’s designed to make the process as easy and efficient as possible.
Who can use the 10 minute passport renewal service?
To be able to use this new service you need to live in the UK and be aged 26 or older. At the moment, you’re only not able to use the service if you’re dual-nationality and have your current passport in your possession. That passport can also not have expired before 2012.
Also, if you’re changing your name, you won’t be able to make use of the 10 minute renewal service but the HM Passport Office has said the service will gradually be rolled out to all passport customers.
How long does it take to get a new passport?
Although the HM Passport Office says it takes 10 minutes to apply for a renewal, the Home Office still takes around 3 weeks to send out a new passport so this option probably isn’t the best if you need a passport urgently!
What if I live overseas?
If you’re a UK customer or British Citizen living overseas, you can do most of your application online and pay for your passport too. The only thing you have to do by mail is send off a signed declaration along with your supporting documents and photos and the HM Passport Office will process it for you!
Why is the 10 minute passport service being introduced?
The HM Passport Office basically wanted to streamline their service and bring it into the digital age. It also makes the process more secure and more convenient, which is pretty handy if you’re short on time and have a smart phone, tablet, or laptop handy!
What do you think to the new 10 minute passport service? Will you be using it in the near future?