Applying for your first adult passport in the UK is a significant rite of passage, unlocking international travel and serving as your primary official identification. The process is managed by Her Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO) and is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. To get your first adult passport UK, you must be 16 or over and a British national.
Your first decision involves choosing between the modern online application or the traditional paper form. One is faster and cheaper, while the other provides a more hands-on approach with in-person checks.
Your First UK Adult Passport: A Complete Overview
Securing your first British passport is more than just a prerequisite for a holiday; it's the globally recognised document that proves your identity and nationality. The application process is broken down into clear, manageable stages, beginning with how you choose to apply.
Let's examine the two primary paths to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Choosing Your Application Method
Your first major decision is straightforward: will you apply online or use a paper form?
The online system, accessible through the official GOV.UK website, is the government's preferred method for good reason. It is consistently faster, costs less, and allows you to track your application's progress at every stage.
Of course, the classic paper application remains an option. Some individuals prefer a physical form or the assurance of the Post Office's 'Check and Send' service. This service provides a valuable second look at your application, helping to prevent common mistakes.
Expert Tip: I strongly recommend the online route for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The Passport Office prioritises digital applications, making it the most streamlined path for most people applying for their first passport.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which application method is right for your first adult British passport.
Online vs Postal Application At a Glance
| Feature | Online Application | Postal Application |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £82.50 (cheaper) | £93.00 |
| Speed | Generally faster processing | Can take longer |
| Photo | Upload a digital photo | Send two printed photos |
| Tracking | Easy online tracking updates | Limited to postal tracking |
| Convenience | Apply from anywhere | Requires visiting a Post Office |
| Error Checking | Built-in checks for mistakes | Relies on manual checking |
Ultimately, both paths lead to the same result: a new biometric passport. However, the online process is designed for modern convenience and speed.
Who's Eligible and What You'll Need
To be eligible for your first adult passport, you must be a British citizen and at least 16 years old (or turning 16 within three weeks).
You will need to gather several key documents to prove your identity and citizenship. The exact requirements depend on your circumstances (e.g., your place of birth), but most applicants will need:
- Your original full birth certificate (the long version showing your parents’ details).
- Proof of British citizenship. This could be your parent's British passport details or a certificate of naturalisation.
- Someone to confirm your identity (a 'countersignatory'). This is required for first-time applications as the Passport Office has no previous photo record to verify against.
A Look at the Costs and Timelines
The cost of your passport application depends on your chosen method and urgency. The standard postal application is £93.00, while the online application is cheaper at £82.50.
For urgent needs, faster options like the Fast Track service (£155.00) or the Premium Digital service (£193.50) are available, though typically not for first-time applicants. You can find the complete, up-to-date fee structure on the official government site.
My best advice? Apply well in advance of any travel plans. First-time applications receive extra scrutiny and naturally take longer to process than renewals. Don't get caught out.
First Things First: Are You Eligible?
Before gathering documents, you must confirm your British citizenship. It is a common misconception that being born in the UK automatically confers the right to a passport. Your eligibility is determined by your citizenship status, which depends on your personal circumstances.
The rules governing British citizenship have evolved over the years, so your eligibility depends on factors like your date of birth and your parents' immigration status at that time. Clarifying this at the outset will prevent significant issues later.
The Main Routes to British Citizenship
For most first-time adult applicants, the claim to a British passport arises from one of three common scenarios. Identifying which applies to you is the first step in determining the necessary proof.
- Born in the UK to a British or Settled Parent: If you were born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983, and at least one parent was a British citizen or had ‘settled’ status (e.g., indefinite leave to remain) at the time of your birth, you are very likely a British citizen.
- Born Outside the UK to a British Parent: If you were born abroad, you can often claim citizenship ‘by descent’ if one of your parents was a British citizen at the time of your birth.
- Became a Citizen Through Naturalisation or Registration: If you moved to the UK and completed the official process to become a British citizen, your certificate of naturalisation or registration is the essential document required.
A key date to remember: The rules were simpler for anyone born in the UK before 1 January 1983. If this applies to you, you are generally a British citizen automatically, regardless of your parents' nationality.
What to Do if You’re Not Sure
It is not uncommon to be uncertain about your precise citizenship status, especially with a complex family history or significant time spent living abroad. If you are unsure, it is essential to obtain clarity before submitting your application.
The recommended course of action is to apply to the Home Office for official confirmation of your British nationality status. This formal process provides a definitive letter confirming your standing. Guessing or assuming can lead to a rejected application and a lost fee, so it is not worth the risk.
And don't worry if you hold another passport—the UK permits dual nationality. You can read our guide to learn more about how many citizenships you can have and how this might affect your application. Confirming your eligibility is the smartest first move.
Getting Your Paperwork in Order
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, the next step is gathering the documents to prove your identity to Her Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO). Getting this part right is the single most critical task; almost all application delays or rejections stem from incorrect or missing paperwork.
The entire process is built on robust security. With over 53.4 million British passports in circulation as of late 2025, it’s clear why these measures are so strict. The modern biometric passport system was designed to meet stringent international standards, requiring every new applicant to provide solid proof of identity.
While the exact list of required documents varies based on individual circumstances, a few core items are almost universally needed.
The Core Document Checklist
Here’s what you will almost certainly need to provide. A crucial point: HMPO will not accept photocopies of these key documents. You must send originals.
- Your Full Birth or Adoption Certificate: This must be the long-form version that includes your parents' details. The short version is not acceptable for a first passport application.
- Proof of British Citizenship: This varies. For naturalised citizens, you'll need your certificate of naturalisation or registration. If your claim is through a parent, you will need their full birth certificate and, if they were born after 1982, their British passport details.
- One Other Form of ID: This serves to back up your identity. Examples include a driving licence, a national ID card from another country, or an expired passport from another country.
A Quick Word of Advice: Your documents will be returned separately from your new passport for security reasons. Ensure you only send original documents, never copies.
Finding Someone to Vouch For You (The Countersignatory)
As this is your first passport, you cannot verify your own identity. You need a 'countersignatory'—a responsible individual who can confirm you are who you claim to be. This is a vital security check.
This person must:
- Have known you for at least two years.
- Work in (or be retired from) a recognised profession or be considered a person of 'good standing'.
- Live in the UK and have a current British or Irish passport.
Think of professionals like accountants, teachers, police officers, or civil servants. They cannot be a relative, be in a relationship with you, or live at your address. Their role is to sign your application form and one of your printed photos, confirming it is a genuine likeness of you.
Getting your photo correct is equally important. To avoid a simple mistake causing a delay, consult our guide on the correct UK passport photo size.
Filling Out Your First Passport Application: Online vs. Paper
With your eligibility confirmed and documents gathered, it's time to complete the application form. Meticulous attention to detail is crucial here. You have two options: the modern online portal or the classic paper form, each with its own process.
The government strongly encourages online applications, and for good reason. The digital form is designed to guide you, catching common errors as you go. However, some people prefer the tangible nature of a paper form, especially when using the Post Office's 'Check and Send' service for extra peace of mind. Let's explore both.
This diagram illustrates the three core document pillars for a first-time application: your birth certificate, proof of British nationality, and the essential countersignatory.
Think of it as a chain of proof. Each document reinforces the last, culminating in a trusted individual vouching for your identity. This is a non-negotiable security measure for every first-time applicant.
The Modern Route: The Online Application
Applying online via the official GOV.UK passport website is undoubtedly the quickest and most straightforward method.
First, you'll create an account, which allows you to save your progress. The system asks plain-language questions about your personal details, parents' information, and citizenship, tailoring subsequent questions based on your answers.
A major advantage is the digital photo submission. You simply upload a digital picture from your phone or computer. The website's built-in checker instantly verifies if your photo meets all requirements for background, head position, and expression, significantly reducing the risk of rejection.
Insider Tip: Before starting the online form, take clear photos of all your supporting documents for your records. You will still need to post the originals. If you are unsure about a question, save your application as a draft and double-check the rules before submitting.
The Traditional Path: The Paper Form
If you prefer pen and paper, the traditional form is available from Post Office branches offering the Passport Check and Send service. The golden rules are to use black ink only and write clearly in capital letters.
The paper form requests the same information as the online version, but the responsibility for accuracy rests entirely with you. Any messy corrections can lead to rejection. If you make a mistake, it is safer to start over with a fresh form.
This is why the Post Office 'Check and Send' service is so valuable. For an additional fee, a trained staff member reviews your form, photo, and documents, identifying potential issues before dispatch. They then send everything securely to Her Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO).
Regardless of your chosen path, keep a photocopy of every document you send.
What to Expect: Fees, Timescales, and Tracking Your Application
Once your application is submitted, the waiting period begins. Understanding the costs, timelines, and tracking process can make this stage less stressful. Here’s what happens after your application reaches Her Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO).
First, the cost. The fee for your first adult passport depends on your application method. Online applications are slightly cheaper than paper ones. Always check the official GOV.UK passport fees page for the latest figures before you start.
How Long Will It Actually Take?
The official guidance advises allowing up to 10 weeks for your first adult passport, from the time HMPO receives all necessary documents. However, this should be treated as a guideline, not a guarantee.
Passport demand fluctuates, peaking before the summer holidays, which can extend waiting times. For context, between January and September 2022, HMPO processed 7.2 million applications—a 24% increase over pre-pandemic volumes. The National Audit Office's investigation noted that despite this surge, about 95% of applicants received their passports within the 10-week window. However, you do not want to be in the 5% who experience delays.
My Golden Rule: Apply as far in advance of any travel plans as possible. Do not book any flights or non-refundable accommodation until you are physically holding your new passport. This is the safest way to avoid stress and financial loss.
Keeping Tabs on Your Application Status
Fortunately, you can monitor your application's progress. The online process, in particular, offers excellent tracking capabilities.
Upon submission, you will receive a unique 10-digit application reference number (usually starting with 'PEX'). You can use this number on the official HMPO tracking service to see your application's status. The updates are clear and typically follow this sequence:
- Application received: Your form has been received.
- Documents received: Your supporting documents have arrived and are being checked.
- Application being processed: Your details are being verified.
- Application approved: Your identity is confirmed, and your passport is approved for printing.
- Passport printed and sent: Your new passport is on its way via secure delivery.
This tracking system provides transparency and peace of mind throughout the process.
Your First Passport Questions, Answered
Applying for a first adult passport can be daunting. Here are answers to common questions to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Why Do First-Time Applications Get Delayed?
Delays almost always stem from three issues: incorrect documents, non-compliant photos, or problems with the countersignatory.
A common mistake is sending a short-form birth certificate; HMPO only accepts the full version with parents' details.
Passport photos are another major hurdle due to strict rules. A photo rejected for a shadow, a smile, or stray hair will cause a delay. Similarly, if your countersignatory has not known you for the required two years or is not in an approved profession, your application will be delayed.
Can I Apply for a First UK Passport from Overseas?
Yes. If you are a British citizen living abroad, you must apply for your first passport online. The paper application route is a UK-only service.
The online process is largely the same. The main logistical challenge is sending your original documents to the UK, so factor in the time and cost of a reliable international courier. Always check the GOV.UK website for any country-specific requirements.
What if I Can't Find Anyone to Countersign My Application?
This is a common concern, especially for those new to the UK or applying from abroad.
If you live abroad, the rules are more flexible. Your countersignatory can be a professional in your country who holds a current British, Irish, EU, US, or Commonwealth passport. They cannot be a relative. You must include a colour copy of their passport's photo page.
For those new to the UK, this can be challenging. The best advice is to build professional connections, such as with your doctor or accountant, who can get to know you over the required two-year period.
I Need to Travel Urgently. Can I Speed Up the Process?
Unfortunately, fast-track services like the 1-week Fast Track are generally not available for first-time adult applications. The identity and background checks are more rigorous and time-consuming than for a renewal.
Be warned: do not book any international travel until you have your new passport in hand. Her Majesty's Passport Office (HMPO) is explicit that it is not responsible for money lost on premature bookings. For a genuine crisis, you may need to investigate an emergency passport replacement in the UK.
If you're a frequent traveller whose plans are often complicated by visa processing times, holding a second passport could be a game-changer. Second UK Passports is a specialist service that helps professionals and other eligible individuals secure a second passport to make international travel seamless. Find out if you qualify by visiting https://secondukpassport.com.
