Passports for children are just as important as passports for adults! And if your child has their own passport, you should check whether they’re due another one. If they are, you need to renew it soon as. But don’t worry, we have all the info you need on a child passport renewal! So, your next holiday can go as smoothly as you wish.
How to renew a child’s passport
If you’re thinking of going on holiday and bringing the kids along, not only do you need to check the validity of your own passport but whether your child’s passport is valid too! This is important, as it’s easily forgotten.
Did you know even a child needs at least 6 months left on their passport to travel? If you or your child only has that amount left, it’s best to renew it as soon as, just in case it may cause problems down the line. However, the time left on their passport will not be added to their new one.
If your child is under the age of 12, someone will have to confirm their identity when you’ve submitted the application. Once you’ve picked who will confirm it, make sure to let them know they’ll receive an email from HM Passport Office outlining the steps to confirm the child’s identity!
They can only confirm the child’s identity if they are:
- Over the age of 18
- Lives in the UK
- Have a current, valid UK passport
- Have known the person applying for at least 2 years
- If they are friends, family, neighbours or colleagues with the person applying (personally knows them)
- And they must work in a recognised profession, eg a clerk, dentist, civil servant, optician and so on.
What do you need to renew a child’s passport
To renew your child’s passport online or via post, you’ll need the following supporting documents for their passport applications:
- Their old passport.
- Any valid passports from other countries they could have.
- Any court orders relating to the child (if applicable).
- A digital or printed photo of your child (that is appropriate for a passport).
Requirements for a passport photo:
- A white, plain background.
- Photo to be taken in colour.
- A clear and focused photo.
- Have a plain expression and look straight into the camera.
- No hair in front of the eyes or anything covering the face.
- No shadows on the face.
- Have your eyes open and make sure there’s no red eye.
Renewal Options
There are two options in how to renew a child’s passport which is listed below.
Online: This will cost £49.00. Which can be paid by either debit or credit card. You will need a digital photo and supporting documents.
Post: This will cost £58.50. You will need to fill out the application paper form, which you can get from either the Post Office or by calling the Passport Adviceline on 0300 222 0000.
Read the information given to you in a booklet form and fill in the sections outlined for you. If your child is above the age of 12, they will also need to fill in a couple of sections. You can then send the application with the form, photo and supporting documents.
Final Steps
You’ll need to choose how you want your documents and old passport to be sent back. It can be done by standard post, or you can pay an extra £5.00 for it to be sent back via secure delivery.
Once your passport is ready, it’ll be sent by post and will be either posted through the letterbox or handed to you in person.
Then you’re all set with your child’s new passport!
If you want to find out more or read more about the process, please check out the Government’s website and advice.
Now you know how to renew your child’s passport, you can look for family holidays!
Do you fancy travelling to Disneyland Paris? Or maybe Universal Studios? Whether you choose European destinations like Barcelona or travel further abroad like Dubai, we have all the fabulous attractions you should visit here!