The UK government is advising people to allow up to ten weeks for the processing of British passport applications, with demand currently at “an all-time high”.
The Home Office said that over five million people had delayed applications during 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but warned that “with international travel returning to normal, more and more people are applying for a new passport”.
HM Passport Office has in fact been advising people to allow up to ten weeks for applications since April 2021, and says that “this remains the case” as demand increases.
The Home Office also warned that “While there are urgent services for people who need their passport more quickly, appointment availability is limited”.
“Now that international travel has resumed, we know people will be looking at going away on holiday and yet many people are leaving applying for a passport too late,” said Abi Tierney, director general of HM Passport Office.
“The summer holidays are fast approaching so if you need a new passport, we urge you to apply now. Our dedicated staff are working tirelessly to ensure that passport applications are processed as quickly as possible.”
A standard 34-page passport costs £75.50 for adults and £49 for children under the age of 16, when applying online – frequent travellers can also apply for a 50-page passport costing £85.50.
For more information visit passport.service.gov.uk.
