Online British Passport Application Guide for UK Citizens in 2025

The days of lengthy and complicated passport applications are over. As of 2025, completing a British passport application online takes no more than 30 minutes in most cases! It’s also more cost-effective—applying online is £11.50 cheaper than applying by post.

You can even apply for a new passport from outside the UK, which is especially convenient if your current passport is due to expire before you return home.

Follow these simple steps to renew your passport or to obtain the first one via Gov.uk.

What documents do I need to renew my British passport online?

To complete your online passport renewal application, you will need the following:

• Your most recent British passport. If you also hold a valid passport from another country, you may be asked to provide its details. Ensure you have your old passport to hand, as you’ll need information such as the passport number, issue date, and expiry date;
• One recent digital photograph that meets the official UK passport photo requirements. The photo must be in colour, taken within the last month, and comply with specific size, background, and quality standards.

As of 2025, the fee for renewing a British passport online is £88.50 for adults and £57.50 for children. It is cheaper and faster than applying by post.

If your previous British passport has been lost or stolen, you must report it before submitting your application. You can do so at: www.gov.uk/report-a-lost-or-stolen-passport. This helps protect you from potential identity misuse.

If you still have your previous passport, you must return it to His Majesty’s Passport Office by post after submitting your application. It will be cancelled and returned to you along with your new passport.

What documents do I need to apply for my first British passport online?

If you are applying for your first UK passport, you will need someone to confirm your identity and photo. This person must have known you personally for at least two years, be a professional (such as a teacher, doctor, or civil servant), and cannot be a relative. Friends, colleagues, or neighbours may qualify, as long as they meet the official criteria.

After you submit and pay for your application, your chosen referee will receive an email with a secure link to complete the identity confirmation. They will be asked a few questions about your character and whether your digital photo is a true likeness.

Once the identity check is complete, you’ll receive an email listing the supporting documents required for your application. These may include:

• Your UK birth or adoption certificate (if born in the UK);
• Your certificate of naturalisation or registration (if you became a British citizen through immigration);
• Proof of one parent’s British nationality (e.g. their UK passport or birth certificate);
• Other documents depending on your specific circumstances, such as marriage certificates or court orders.

You must send the original documents by post—photocopies or digital scans will not be accepted. All original documents will be returned to you using the delivery method you selected during your application.

What are the digital passport photo requirements?

When applying for a British passport online, you must submit a digital photograph that meets the official UK passport photo standards. Failure to meet these requirements can delay or even result in the rejection of your application.

Here are the key digital photo requirements for a UK passport:

• The photo must be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall. The file size should be between 50KB and 10MB.
• The image must be in JPEG format and in colour.
• The background should be plain, light-coloured—preferably white, light grey, or cream. There must be no shadows or patterns visible.
• You must face forward and look straight at the camera with a neutral expression. Your eyes must be open and visible, and your mouth must be closed.
• The photo should be well-lit and evenly exposed, with no red-eye or glare.
• Head coverings are only permitted for religious or medical reasons. In such cases, your face must be fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, including both edges of your face.
• ou should remove glasses to avoid glare or reflections. If you must wear them for medical reasons, ensure your eyes are fully visible.

How to make a digital UK passport photo online

You can use the Visafoto UK passport photo service to create a professional digital photo for your UK passport application. Visafoto automatically adjusts the background, sets the correct size, enhances contrast, and positions the face according to the official guidelines.

The result is a fully compliant digital photo that meets HM Passport Office requirements: in colour, at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, and between 50KB and 10MB in file size.

Why choose Visafoto?

• Instant results: Get your compliant photo in seconds after upload.
• Guaranteed acceptance: Visafoto ensures your photo meets all technical and biometric standards set by the UK Passport Office.
• Automatic background editing: No need for a white wall—Visafoto replaces any background with a plain light one.
• Works with any device: Take a photo with your smartphone or camera and upload it directly.
• Both digital and print-ready versions: You’ll receive a digital file for online use and a printable template if needed.
• Trusted expertise: We guarantee compliance, as we have extensive experience with passport and visa photos from around the world.
• Free edits and refunds: If you're not satisfied with the result, we’ll edit or replace the photo for free. If your photo is not accepted, we will provide a full refund.

How to take a passport-sized photo with a phone

The 7ID app, developed by Visafoto.com, offers a reliable way to capture and process passport, visa, and ID photos from the comfort of your home.

Available for both iPhone and Android devices, the application allows users to upload a photo and select the appropriate document type and issuing country. The app automatically adjusts the photo’s size, background, head position, and eye alignment to ensure full compliance with UK passport regulations.

Once processed, the photo is available in both digital and print-ready formats. The app supports standard printing sizes such as 10x15 cm, A4, A5, and B5, making it easy to produce physical copies at home or at a local print shop.

Technical assistance is available 24/7 to help users ensure that their photograph meets the required standards.

How to submit the online UK passport application?

To begin your application, visit the official UK passport application page on the Gov.uk website. Click the "Start" button and follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your eligibility and proceed to the application form.

Complete the online form carefully, ensuring that all personal details are entered accurately. You will be prompted to:

• Upload a compliant digital passport photo;
• Pay the application fee securely using a credit or debit card;
• Provide details of a referee if you are applying for your first adult passport (they must confirm your identity online).

Once submitted, you will receive a declaration form by email. Print and sign it, and then post it along with your current passport (if applicable) and any required supporting documents to the address provided.

Processing time and delivery in 2025

As of 2025, the average processing time for a first-time adult UK passport application is up to 6 weeks, though delays may occur during busy periods or if additional checks are needed.

Once approved, your passport will typically be delivered by secure courier on behalf of His Majesty’s Passport Office. Deliveries take place during the daytime, Monday to Saturday. Alternatively, you may choose to collect your passport in person from a designated Customer Service Centre if this option is available in your region.

Important: Remember to sign your new passport as soon as you receive it. It is not valid for travel until signed.

Last Update: June 2025