Guide to Renewing Your UK Passport While Living Abroad

How to renew your UK passport while living abroad?

Are you a UK citizen living abroad and you need to renew your passport as smooth as possible? Let us explain you your options and the steps you need to take!

Can I renew my passport online?

As a UK citizen living abroad, you have two ways to renew your passport. One is visiting your nearest British embassy or consulate to apply in person. Though there is a much easier way now - you can also apply online within minutes.

The online process

• Visit the UK government's online passport renewal service for citizens living overseas: https://www.gov.uk/overseas-passports

• Follow the steps and provide the required information, including your passport details, your personal information, and your current address.

• Upload a digital photo of yourself that meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. You can use Snap2Pass to generate that photo with your smartphone, within seconds. Click here to start! https://www.snap2pass.com/doc/uk-passport-photo

• Pay the fee using a credit or debit card.

• Once your application is submitted, you will receive instructions on how to send in your old passport for cancellation.

How to renew your UK passport in person?

If you prefer to apply in person, visiting the British embassy or consulate, here’s how the process works:

• First contact the British embassy or consulate you wish to visit and schedule an appointment.

• Download and fill out the application form from the UK government website.

• Bring your current passport, the completed application form, and two identical passport photos that meet the ICAO standards to your appointment.

• Pay the fee at the embassy or consulate, usually in local currency.

• Once your application is submitted, you will receive instructions on how to send in your old passport for cancellation.

Processing time

It's important to note that the processing time for renewing a passport abroad can be longer than renewing in the UK, so it's best to start the process well in advance of your planned travel dates.