How to apply for your first UK passport
How to apply for your first UK passport, what documents you need, how much it costs and how long it usually takes.
Who this guide is for
This is for people applying from inside the UK who have never had a British passport before.
First adult passport
Use this route if you are 16 or over, or will be 16 within 3 weeks, and you have never had a UK passport before.
Go to GOV.UK adult guideFirst child passport
Use this route if the applicant is under 16. A child passport normally lasts 5 years.
Go to GOV.UK child guideNo documents yet?
Start by ordering the birth, adoption, marriage or civil partnership certificates you need before you apply.
Order certificatesThe start to finish process
Follow these steps in order so you do not waste time or send the wrong documents.
Check you are applying for the correct passport
Choose the adult route if the applicant is 16 or over. Choose the child route if they are under 16.
Check British nationality
A passport proves nationality, so the applicant must be British before applying. Some people will need parent documents as well as their own birth certificate.
Gather original documents
You usually need a full birth or adoption certificate. If born on or after 1 January 1983, you may also need proof of a parent’s British nationality or immigration status at the time of birth.
Order missing certificates
If you have nothing, order official certificates first. Do not send photocopies with a passport application.
Get a passport photo
Online applications need a digital photo or photo code. Paper applications need 2 identical printed passport photos.
Choose someone to confirm your identity
For a first passport, someone suitable must confirm the applicant’s identity. They need to know the applicant personally and meet the GOV.UK rules.
Apply online where possible
Online is usually cheaper and easier to track than using a paper form. Use the official GOV.UK passport service only.
Send supporting documents
After applying, send the original documents requested by HM Passport Office. Documents usually come back separately from the passport.
Attend an interview if asked
Some first adult passport applicants may need an identity interview. If needed, HM Passport Office will contact you.
Wait for the passport before booking travel
Do not book travel until the passport has arrived. Applications can take longer if information, documents or interviews are needed.
Current UK passport fees
These are standard UK application fees. Always check GOV.UK before applying.
| Passport type | Online | Paper form |
|---|---|---|
| Adult standard 34 page passport | £102 | £115.50 |
| Adult frequent traveller 54 page passport | £116 | £129.50 |
| Child standard 34 page passport | £66.50 | £80 |
| Child frequent traveller 54 page passport | £80.50 | £94 |
Documents you may need
The exact documents depend on age, place of birth and how British nationality was gained.
Born in the UK before 1 January 1983
You normally need a full birth certificate or adoption certificate.
Born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983
You normally need your full birth certificate or adoption certificate, plus proof of one parent’s British nationality or immigration status when you were born.
Born outside the UK
Your documents depend on how you became British. Check the official GOV.UK document guidance before applying.
Official links
Use these links to avoid fake passport websites, wrong fees and outdated advice.
Want the printable checklist?
Download the step by step first UK passport checklist and keep it while you gather documents, photos and identity confirmation.
Replace this section with your PDF download link, email signup form or resource library link when ready.
Printable PDF coming soon.
Use the official links for now