If you’re planning to travel abroad and need a new UK passport, it’s important to know the rules, prices, and if you’re eligible for a free one. Whether it’s your first passport or you’re renewing, you must make sure your passport is valid before you travel. This article explains who can get a free British passport, the costs involved for others, and how to apply.
Who Can Get a Free British Passport?
Normally, British passports cost up to £112 depending on how you apply — online or by paper. However, there is a special case where you can get a free passport. If you were born on or before September 2, 1929, you are eligible to apply for a free British passport. This applies whether you are applying for a new passport or renewing an old one.
You can apply either online or by paper. Additionally, if you use the Post Office’s Check and Send service, both the application check and secure delivery are free of charge for you. But if you want your passport urgently, you will still need to pay a fee, even if you qualify for the free passport by age.
Also, if you want a frequent traveller passport with 54 pages (instead of the standard 34 pages), you will have to pay for it regardless.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Passport?
If you do not qualify for a free passport, here are the current prices for renewing or applying for a new passport in 2025:
Applying online for a standard 34-page passport costs £94.50 for adults and £61.50 for children.
Applying by post for the same passport costs £107 for adults and £74 for children.
If you travel often and want the larger frequent traveller passport with 54 pages, the prices are higher:
Online application costs £107.50 for adults and £74.50 for children.
By post, it costs £120 for adults and £87 for children.
Many people find applying online cheaper and quicker, but you can choose the method that suits you best.
Additional Information
You can find full details and apply for your passport through the official UK government website. This will help you check eligibility, costs, and the application process step-by-step.
Knowing whether you need to pay for a passport or if you qualify for a free one can save you money and hassle when preparing to travel. Older citizens born before September 2, 1929, benefit from free passports, while others can choose between online and postal applications at different prices. Always check the latest government information before applying to ensure your passport is valid and your application process is smooth.
FAQs
Who can get a free UK passport?
British citizens born on or before September 2, 1929, can apply for a free passport.
How much does it cost to renew a UK passport?
Renewing a standard adult passport costs £94.50 online or £107 by post in 2025.
Can I get a bigger passport with more pages?
Yes, the frequent traveller passport has 54 pages but costs more than the standard 34-page passport.
Is it cheaper to apply online or by post?
Applying online is cheaper, but both methods are available depending on your preference.
Do I have to pay for urgent passport applications?
Yes, even if you qualify for a free passport, urgent applications require payment.
Where can I apply for a UK passport?
You can apply through the official UK government website or use the Post Office Check and Send service.
Are there any free services when applying for a passport if I qualify?
Yes, application checks and secure delivery are free for eligible seniors applying normally.
