UK Govt New Passport Application Fees List May 2025: The government have introduced new fees for passport applications from 10 April 2025. The UK government has proposed several changes to passport application fees, subject to approval by Parliament.
These adjustments aim to ensure that the system is self-sustaining, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation. Here’s a breakdown of the proposed changes and what they mean for passport applicants.
The new fees apply to both domestic and international applicants and cover various application services, including standard, postal, and premium services.
UK Govt New Passport Application Fees Rate List May 2025
| Application Type | Adult Fee (Current) | Adult Fee (Proposed) | Child Fee (Current) | Child Fee (Proposed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Applications within the UK | £88.50 | £94.50 | £57.50 | £61.50 |
| Postal Applications | £100.00 | £107.00 | £69.00 | £74.00 |
| Premium Service (1-day application) within the UK | £207.50 | £222.00 | £176.50 | £189.00 |
| Online Applications from Overseas | £101.00 | £108.00 | £65.50 | £70.00 |
| Postal Applications from Overseas | £112.50 | £120.50 | £77.00 | £82.50 |
Online Applications within the UK:
- For adults, the fee will increase from £88.50 to £94.50.
- For children, the fee will rise from £57.50 to £61.50.
Postal Applications:
- The cost for adults will go up from £100 to £107.
- For children, the fee will rise from £69 to £74.
Premium Service (1-day application) within the UK:
- Adults will see an increase from £207.50 to £222.
- For children, the fee will go up from £176.50 to £189.
Online Applications from Overseas:
- For adults, the cost will rise from £101 to £108.
- For children, the fee will increase from £65.50 to £70.
Postal Applications from Overseas:
- Adults will face a rise from £112.50 to £120.50.
- For children, the fee will go up from £77 to £82.50.
Why Are the Fees Increasing?
These fee increases are designed to cover the costs associated with processing passport applications, consular support abroad, and services like assisting with lost or stolen passports. The government has stated that these changes are intended to make the system more self-financing, reducing the need for funding from general taxes. It’s important to note that the government does not make a profit from passport applications.
What This Means for Passport Applicants
The Home Office encourages applicants to apply well in advance of their travel dates to ensure timely processing. In 2024, 99.7% of standard applications from the UK were processed within three weeks, as long as no additional information was needed.
While the fee increases may come as a surprise to some, they are a necessary step for ensuring the continued sustainability of the passport system. By reducing reliance on taxpayer funding, the government aims to create a system that operates largely on user fees. Applicants should be aware of these changes and plan ahead to avoid any delays in receiving their passports.
Source of News: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/changes-to-passport-application-fees
FAQ
Why are UK passport fees increasing?
The increase is designed to ensure the passport system is self-sustaining, reducing reliance on taxpayer funding. The new fees will cover the costs of processing applications, consular support abroad, and related services.
When will the new passport fees take effect?
The proposed fee changes are subject to approval by Parliament. Once approved, they are expected to take effect in 2025.
How much will the fee increase for a UK passport?
The fee for a standard online application within the UK will rise from £88.50 to £94.50 for adults, and from £57.50 to £61.50 for children. There will also be increases in postal and premium service applications.
Will these fee increases affect passport applications from abroad?
Yes, passport application fees for both online and postal applications from overseas will also see increases.
Should I apply for my passport before the fees rise?
Yes, it’s a good idea to apply before the new fees take effect. The Home Office recommends applying in advance of your travel date to avoid any delays.can
