UK Passport Application Fees Set to Increase to Record High: What You Need to Know

The cost of obtaining a UK passport is set to rise yet again, with fees increasing by up to 25% in just two years — more than double the rate of inflation. The new UK passport application fees, effective 10 April 2025, will impact both domestic and overseas applicants across various application methods.

This increase has drawn criticism from travel industry leaders, especially given the ongoing cost-of-living pressures facing UK citizens. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the updated fees, the reasons behind the hike, and what travellers need to know.

Breakdown of the New UK Passport Application Fees

The proposed fee changes will affect both online and postal applications for adults and children. Here’s a clear overview of the revised costs:

1. Standard Online Applications (From Within the UK)

• Adults: Increasing from £88.50 to £94.50
• Children: Increasing from £57.50 to £61.50

2. Postal Applications (From Within the UK)

• Adults: Increasing from £100 to £107
• Children: Increasing from £69 to £74

3. Premium (1-Day) Service (From Within the UK)

• Adults: Increasing from £207.50 to £222
• Children: Increasing from £176.50 to £189

4. Standard Online Applications (From Overseas)

• Adults: Increasing from £101 to £108
• Children: Increasing from £65.50 to £70

5. Overseas Standard Paper Applications

• Adults: Increasing from £112.50 to £120.50
• Children: Increasing from £77 to £82.50

Why Are UK Passport Applications Fees Increasing?

The Home Office explains that these fee hikes are necessary to ensure that the UK passport application system is self-sustaining, reducing reliance on taxpayer funding.

“The new fees will help the Home Office to continue to move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it,” the government stated.

The increased revenue will contribute to:

• Processing UK passport applications
• Providing consular support overseas (e.g., for lost or stolen passports)
• Managing UK border security processes

The government emphasized that no profit is made from these fees — they are strictly intended to cover operational costs.

The Rising Cost of UK Passports: A 25% Hike in Two Years

The latest fee increase follows two previous hikes:

• February 2023: A 9% increase
• April 2024: A further 7% increase

Together, these successive rises amount to a 25% increase in less than two years.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, Chief Executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, criticized the timing of this increase, stating:

“It’s another financial hit for travellers and comes at a time when ongoing cost-of-living pressures continue to take their toll. It feels like travellers are continually penalised whenever they choose to travel overseas.”

How to Prepare for the UK Passport Application Fee Increase

If you’re planning to renew or apply for a UK passport soon, consider these tips to avoid paying higher fees:

• Apply Early: Submitting your application before 10 April 2025 will ensure you pay the current lower rates.
• Check Your UK Passport’s Expiry Date: Many countries require at least six months’ validity on your passport before entry, so don’t delay if your passport is close to expiring.
• Use Online Services: Online applications are generally faster and slightly cheaper than postal services.

UK Passport Application Processing Times Remain Stable

Despite the fee increase, the Home Office has maintained a strong track record in processing applications efficiently. In 2024, 99.7% of standard UK passport applications were processed within three weeks — provided no additional information was required.

Travellers are still advised to apply well in advance of planned travel dates to avoid potential delays.

Balancing Costs with Service Improvements

While the upcoming fee increase may seem steep, the Home Office’s goal is to create a self-funded passport service that reduces reliance on public funds. For travellers, staying informed and acting early can help mitigate the financial impact.

With the rising cost of travel documentation, it’s more important than ever for UK citizens to plan their applications carefully to avoid unexpected costs.