British passport application fee hikes to take effect from February
The UK Government has announced plans to increase British passport application costs from early February 2022.
For further information on how we can help you, call our team of advisors today on 0161 826 9783.
Plans to implement passport fee increases next month
The UK Government has actioned plans to introduce a cost increase on British passport fees, effective from February 2nd, 2023.
It is the first time in five years that a passport fee increase has taken place in the United Kingdom. The proposal to increase the current fees hopes to provide a better source of funding for the system, therefore, minimising the need to use general tax funds.
The increase in question is expected to be effective across all types of British passport applications, including both new applicants and renewal requests.
The proposed fees
The fee changes in question are proposed to be as follows:
- Standard online application for an adult will increase from £75.50 to £82.50
- Standard online application for a child increase from £49 to £53.50
- Adult postal applications will increase from £85 to £93
- Child postal applications will increase from £58.50 to £64
The proposed changes are subject to parliamentary scrutiny before they are officially passed.
New fees will prove essential to the running of the system
The new fee increase will result in more funding for the Home Office to process passport applications, deal with reports of lost and stolen passports, and the costs involved with processing British Citizens when they approach the UK borders.
The overall fee increase is anticipated to improve the overall quality and outcome of UK passport services. It is said that no profit will be made following the cost increase set to be implemented.
Last year’s delay in passport applications
Last year, several passport applicants faced uncertainty following severe delays to the passport processing system in place.
The delays came after HM Passport Office received a record number of passport applications. It is said that approximately 360,000 applicants faced issues with delays as HMPO staff battled the backlog left after the Coronavirus travel restrictions were lifted.
For many, the delays meant that they were unable to receive their passport in time to travel.
Government advice states applicants should apply in good time
Government officials have since stated:
“Since January last year, over 95% of standard applications have been processed within 10 weeks and customers are advised that they should apply in good time before travelling. Apply online for a UK passport.”
The advice applies to both first UK passport applications and renewals.
How can Manchester Immigration Lawyer help?
Applying for a British passport can often seem like a daunting task. Whilst both time-consuming and intricate, it can prove beneficial to seek the advice of a trained immigration lawyer if you are applying for your first British passport.
At Manchester Immigration Lawyer, our team of dedicated immigration experts can assist you with each step of the passport application process. Rest assured that our expert team can assist you in the initial application process, submitting the correct documents, and preparing for and attending your passport interview.
Whether you require guidance with the entire process or just a small section of it, we would love to hear from you.
For more information on how Manchester Immigration Lawyer can help, call us today on 0161 826 9783.
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Last modified on February 3rd, 2023 at 4:09 pm
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