Service Overview
A new passport application is required when you have never held a British passport before, or when you are applying for the first time as a British national born abroad. The process differs from a renewal and typically requires more documentation — including certified copies of birth certificates, evidence of British nationality, and in some cases countersignatory statements.
Worldwide Visas & Passport Services Ltd helps adults and parents of children navigate the new passport application process accurately. We review your documents before you submit, ensuring the application meets HMPO's current requirements and reducing the likelihood of delays or rejection.
We are not affiliated with HMPO (His Majesty's Passport Office) and cannot expedite official processing. However, our review and preparation service means your application is submitted correctly the first time.
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British nationals who have never held a passport and are applying for the first time.
Those needing to evidence their British nationality before a first passport can be issued.
Parents applying for a child's first passport, including cases with sole or shared parental responsibility.
People who have naturalised or registered as British citizens and need their first passport.
Preparation
Requirements vary by individual circumstances. This is a general guide — our team will provide a tailored checklist after your initial consultation.
How It Works
We confirm your eligibility and the correct application route for your nationality and circumstances.
We help you complete the application form and compile all required supporting documents to HMPO specification.
We check your passport photo against current HMPO requirements before you submit — avoiding one of the most common rejection reasons.
We advise on the best submission method (online, postal, or in-person) and confirm your application is ready to send.
What To Avoid
HMPO has precise specifications: neutral expression, no glasses, specific dimensions, white or off-white background. Digitally altered or overexposed photos are rejected.
HMPO requires the full (long) version of your birth certificate. The abbreviated version is not accepted.
The countersignatory must have known you for at least two years and hold a UK or Irish passport. Certain professions are preferred but not mandatory.
HMPO cannot return submitted documents until processing is complete. Keep certified copies of anything you send.
Standard processing has no guaranteed timeline. Allow at least 10 working weeks; apply earlier if possible.
The child's passport must be issued in their legal name as recorded on their birth certificate unless a name change has been formally registered.
Common Questions
Potentially yes, depending on how British nationality was acquired. British nationality can pass through a British parent, but specific rules apply depending on whether the nationality was acquired through birth, registration, or naturalisation. We assess eligibility as part of the initial consultation.
Online applications do not require a physical countersignatory signature on a photo. However, HMPO may still require a person who can confirm your identity, particularly for first-time applicants. We advise based on your specific application type.
HMPO sets the official fee. As of current rates, adult passports cost more than child passports. Urgent and premium services attract higher fees. We do not set HMPO fees; our advisory fee covers preparation and review only.
In many cases yes, provided you have a UK driving licence or a recent passport from certain countries to verify your identity digitally. If not, a paper application with physical identity verification may be required.
HMPO no longer publishes guaranteed processing times. Applications typically take several weeks. Urgent services can reduce this, subject to availability. We advise on current typical times during your consultation.
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