UK Govt confirmed £94.50 New Fees for Passport Applications on 10 April 2025: Planning to apply for a UK passport in 2025? You might want to do it soon. The UK government has announced plans to increase passport application fees, both in the UK and overseas. These new prices are part of a move to cover the full cost of passport services through application fees, instead of relying on taxpayer money.
The new fee structure, which still needs Parliament’s approval, will affect adults and children applying online, by post, or using the Premium 1-day service. Here’s a clear breakdown of the proposed changes and what they mean for UK passport applicants.
What Are the New Proposed UK Passport Fees?
If approved, the new passport fees will apply to applications made from within the UK and from overseas. Here’s how the prices will change:
Applications Made in the UK
Standard Online Applications
Adults: increasing from £88.50 to £94.50
Children: increasing from £57.50 to £61.50
Postal Applications
Adults: increasing from £100 to £107
Children: increasing from £69 to £74
Premium Service (1-day turnaround)
Adults: increasing from £207.50 to £222
Children: increasing from £176.50 to £189
Applications Made from Outside the UK
Standard Online Applications
Adults: increasing from £101 to £108
Children: increasing from £65.50 to £70
Standard Paper Applications
Adults: increasing from £112.50 to £120.50
Children: increasing from £77 to £82.50
Why Are Passport Fees Increasing?
The government says these increases are necessary to help the Home Office cover the full cost of providing passport services. This includes:
- Processing passport applications
- Offering support overseas (like help with lost or stolen passports)
- Managing British citizens at UK borders
The aim is to reduce the Home Office’s reliance on general taxes and shift costs to the people who actually use these services. The government also stressed that no profit is made from these fees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?
The government encourages people to apply well in advance of any travel plans. In 2024, 99.7% of standard passport applications from within the UK were processed within three weeks, provided there were no delays or missing information.
When Will These Changes Happen?
These changes are still subject to approval by Parliament. However, once approved, they will take effect and apply to all new passport applications. So, if you’re planning a trip or need to renew your passport, it’s wise to apply before the new fees come into force.
Passport costs are going up, and while the increases may seem small, they can add up, especially for families. These changes are part of the government’s efforts to make passport services fully self-funded. If you’re planning to travel in the near future or your passport is close to expiring, it’s a good idea to apply now and save some money. The process is mostly quick and efficient, with nearly all standard applications being completed within three weeks in 2024.
FAQ
When will the new UK passport fees take effect?
The proposed fee changes still need to be approved by Parliament. Once approved, they will be applied to all new passport applications.
How much is the new online passport application fee in the UK?
The standard online application fee will rise from £88.50 to £94.50 for adults, and from £57.50 to £61.50 for children.
Why is the government increasing passport fees?
The government wants passport services to be paid for by users rather than taxpayers. The increase helps cover processing costs and overseas support.
How long does it take to process a UK passport?
In 2024, 99.7% of standard applications were processed within 3 weeks when no extra information was needed.
Can I avoid the new fees?
You can avoid paying the higher fees by applying before the new rates come into effect, provided Parliament approves the changes.
