Applying for a Child’s Passport in the UK

If you’re planning a trip outside Britain for the first time with your child, then you need to apply for what is known as a first child passport.

Leaving the application of your first child passport until it’s too late may spell disaster for your planned holiday. It would be best to consider doing this well ahead of time as the process can take three to four weeks. The online application offers the fastest turnaround, whereas post may take longer. One essential criterion for eligibility is the child must be of British nationality.

Step 1: Get your Documents Ready

In order to apply for a child’s passport in the United Kingdom, you will need to provide a number of supporting documents.

These include original or certified copies of birth certificates, as well as any other relevant documentation such as adoption papers. If your documents are not written in English or Welsh, you will also need to provide certified translations.

Once you have gathered all of the required documentation, you can then begin the application process by completing the online form or by visiting your local passport office.

Documents you will need:

• 2 new photos of your child – see photo guidelines
• The child’s full birth certificate – order certified copy of the birth certificate
• Adoption certificate, if the child was adopted – order certified copy of the adoption certificate
• Proof of British nationality – For example, both parents’ full birth certificates (which you can order here), British registration certificate or parent’s passport details
• Any valid passports belonging to the child but issued by a different country.
• Any relevant court orders – find out more

Further Reading: Guide to Ordering a Birth Certificate in the UK

Step 2: Choose How You Want to Apply

You can apply for a first child passport through two methods. So, once you have your supporting documentation ready to submit, select which application method you prefer:

Online – Applying for a Child’s Passport in the UK Online:

• Online application for a first child passport – Start the application now.

Post – Applying for a Child’s Passport in the UK:

• Collect a paper application form from a post office that offers Passport Check and Send.
• Alternatively, you can have the application form mailed to you by contacting the Passport Adviceline.

The UK Government website advises:

“Complete sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 9 of the form. If your child is 12 years or over in age, they are required to sign section 6. To certify your child’s photo, you will need to get someone other than the parents, known as your ‘countersignatory’, to complete section 10.”

The booklet that comes with the form offers help if you need it.

To send in your application, you can either:

• Post your form, photos and documents using the pre-printed envelope that comes with the form.
• Take your form, photos and documents to the Post Office if you want to use the Passport Check and Send service.

The application form allows you to choose the method you want your original supporting documents returned to you.

Lost your child’s birth certificate?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone! It happens to the best of us. But don’t worry, getting a replacement birth certificate is easy.

You can order a replacement birth certificate online at UK Certificates. The process takes just 5 minutes, and you don’t need a GRO index reference number.

A birth certificate is an important supporting document for getting your child’s passport. So, if you’re planning on taking your child on holiday soon, make sure you order a replacement birth certificate today!