Government clarifies 'facts' around new blue UK passports

The Government has moved to clarify some "facts" around new passports, ahead of costs expecting to soar to up to £222 for a new or replacement one from next week.

A valid passport is a requirement for UK residents wishing to travel abroad. If you are considering obtaining one, it would be wise to act before April 10, the date when the fees are set to jump up.

In a bid to clarify a few things, a post from the GOV UK account on X reads: "Passports: these are the facts". An accompanying video explains:"It takes around three weeks to get your passport.

"It's cheaper to apply online. There are one day and one week fast-track services."

Currently, an adult passport is priced at £88.50 for online applications and £100 via the traditional paper form. However, these costs are about to rise to £94.50 and £107, respectively.

Here, 'adult' means anyone aged 16 or over. From April 10, a child's passport will experience an increase from £57.50 to £61.50 for online applications, and from £69 to £74 if submitting via post.

Moreover, for those in urgent need, the fee for the Premium Service (one day) will rise from £207.50 to £222 for adults and from £176.50 to £189 for children.