FAQs - New passport arrangements

Q:  Why have we changed the way we issue passports?

The overseas passport operation is self-funding and has been operating at a loss for over five years.  With increasing demand for document security (requiring the introduction of more sophisticated and expensive issuing systems), we have to find a way to balance our books.  

In order to cut our running costs and avoid a significant rise in passport fees, we need to reduce the number of locations where we process applications and print books. The National Audit Office recommended this course of action in 2007.  It has the added benefit of reducing opportunities for fraud by having fewer blank passports in circulation.  

The UK is alone among major partners in continuing to print passports abroad. Most countries repatriate all printing and personalisation to a central domestic production facility.

Q:  Have you transferred passport production elsewhere in the world?

Yes, other mergers have been successfully completed in Australasia, Europe, North America and Southern Africa.  Although we realise circumstances are different in different parts of the world.  We are confident we can also successfully streamline and improve the operation here too.   In the larger Passport Processing Centres there are in excess of 6000 passport applications processed successfully with the Public Targets every month.

Q:  What services will the Consulate continue to provide for British nationals living and travelling overseas?

The Consular Team will continue to provide assistance to British residents and visitors who need our help. We have a professional and high performing consular team overseas and the changes to the passport service should free up more time to allow them to meet the growing demand for assistance.

The Embassy/High Commission will still be able to provide a travel document for customers who need to travel for emergency purposes.

Q:  How much will it cost to get my application done in the Passport Processing Centre?

The cost of the passport will be same worldwide.  There will be additional costs to send your application to us (as in the UK) and for us to return your passport and documents securely.

Q:  This means I will have to wait longer for my new passport?

All our new Passport Processing Centres aim to issue all passports in line with our Public Target commitment to issue passports to customers within ten working days, from the receipt of the correct supporting documents and fee.  
Using a courier service will add additional time and customers need to factor this into their planning.   Our aim is to provide a more secure and efficient service as a well as a timely one. We will draw upon the good practice and experience of other posts, which have already seen their operations rationalised, to ensure the transition to these new arrangements goes smoothly

Q: How will you guarantee protection for my personal documents and completed passport?

To return your new passport and documents we use a reliable, secure and internationally recognised method.  

Q: What can I do to prepare for these changes?

• Take care of your passport.
• Check its validity.  (Passports can be renewed up to 9 months before they expire.  The extra time will be added on to the new passport’s validity.)
• If you do not have a full validity passport, you will need to allow extra time to obtain one.
• If you are a frequent traveller, to countries requiring a visa, please enquire about purchasing a second passport.*

*These are issued at the discretion of HM Consul.  Applicants must demonstrate that: a) they are eligible to a British passport and b) there is a genuine need to hold a second passport.