HM Passport Office has issued a five-week warning to all UK citizens planning to jet off abroad this winter, reminding them of the need for a valid passport. If your passport is lost, stolen, damaged, or expires, you'll need to apply for a replacement, which will set you back £94.50 if you apply online, or £107 if you opt for a paper form.
Typically, your new document will arrive within three weeks, but the Passport Office has shared an update on X, formerly Twitter, ahead of the busy festive travel period. Their post reads: "Christmas is just 5 weeks away!
"If 'Yule' be travelling, check your passport is valid for travel today. Don't let your sleigh be delayed." Further guidance provided via a Gov.uk link explains that it may take longer than three weeks to produce a new or replacement passport "if we need more information, or we need to interview you", and adds: "We'll tell you this within 3 weeks".
The Passport Office also cautions: "Do not book travel until you have a valid passport - your new passport will not have the same number as your old one."
For those in urgent need of a passport, there are two options available. The first is the one-day premium service, although the earliest appointment you can secure is two days after you apply.
You'll need to surrender your old passport at your appointment, and your new passport will be ready for collection from the passport office four hours later. This service is only available for adult passport renewals, with a new document costing £222 or £235 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport.
Alternatively, the one-week fast-track service can be used. The earliest appointment you can secure is the day after your application, and your new passport will be couriered to you one week post-appointment. This service is priced at £178 for an adult passport, or £145 for a child's passport, or £191 or £158 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport for an adult or child, respectively.
If you're without a valid passport but require travel for medical treatment, or due to a seriously ill or deceased friend or family member, or for urgent government business, you should contact the Passport Advice line.