Lost or stolen

Q:   What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?  
A:   If you are overseas, report the incident to the local police as soon as possible and obtain a police report in the cases of stolen passports.
Following this immediately inform the nearest British Consulate, this will reduce the risk of someone stealing your identity or attempting to enter the UK on your passport. Send or take a copy of the police report along with a completed LS01 form to the Consulate who will then be able to cancel your passport.

If you are in the UK, contact the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) on their Passport Advice Line 0870 521 0410 for guidance.

Renewal

Q:   Can I renew a passport overseas?  
A:   Yes. You can renew your passport in most British Consulates. Please check the Consulate you intend to apply at offers this service and their requirements - UK consular posts overseas - opening hours and contact details.

We suggest you allow 4 weeks, and do not make any arrangements to travel until your new passport has been returned.

If you have only been issued a restricted validity passport by the IPS in the UK, because you did not have sufficient time to attend an interview with them, you will need to attend our offices for an interview before this can be extended.

Travelling without one

Q:   Can I travel abroad without a passport?  
A:   Don't try it.  

Cost

Q:   How much will a new passport cost?  
A:   The cost of passports issued at British overseas missions was increased from 21 November 2007, in line with the increase in the fee for passports issued in the UK. The new fees are:

• Adult 32-page: £119
• Adult 48-page: £144
• Child: £76
• Emergency: £55.50

What is a biometric passport?

A biometric passport carries biological information stored on electronic chip that links a person to their passport.

Biometric information provides an additional feature that strengthens the security of the passport to reduce the threat of identity fraud.

All new, full UK passports use facial biometrics.

Why do UK passports use biometrics?

The biometric UK passport is a counter-fraud measure introduced by the Identity and Passport Service (IPS). Using of biometrics strengthens the security of UK passports to reduce the threat of identity fraud.

In practice, biometric verification can be used at border controls and to verify the image on a passport renewal application against images held on record.

For more information go to Biometric passports. [LINK]