The UK resumes fast-track passport service
The HM Passport Office reintroduces issuing passports under the accelerated procedure. This remained legally in force for a long time, but was eventually suspended due to the pandemic and the lockdown-related reduction in the number of staff.
An important thing to understand is that the time you need to stay in the country before you can apply for citizenship is not shortened – the threshold remains 5 years. What is accelerated is the paperwork for those who already entitled to the UK nationality.
How much time it takes to get a passport under the accelerated procedure
The authorities promise that your papers will be processed within a week after you submit them. Your new passport will be delivered to the home address you have given.
However, it might be worth mentioning that in practice it takes much more time to get a passport. The thing is, first you need to book an appointment at the HM Passport Office. Because of COVID-19 pandemic, the number of slots has been reduced.
Currently, in London you may have to wait 3-4 weeks. And the rules clearly state that you can only use the fast-track service if you are in the UK. The service is not available from abroad.
How to apply
To apply, you will need to fill in a paper form and submit the evidence that you are entitled to a British passport.
If you are renewing your passport, you would only need to enclose your former passport. You may also apply online, provided your former passport was issued on 1 January 2002, or later.
If it is your first British passport, then, depending on the circumstances, you will have to submit naturalisation certificate, a UK birth certificate, etc.
If you still have questions or you are in need of help and assistance to get a British passport, get in touch with us. Immigration advisors from Imperial & Legal will do their best to assist you.
