UK Government Issues 7-Day Ultimatum To Anyone Who Holds British Passport

UK Government Issues 7-Day Ultimatum To Anyone Who Holds British Passport

Seven Days warning has been issued to anybody who owns a UK passport – ahead of massive increase in renewal fees.

By 2nd of February 2023, the price of UK passport will rise by 9 per cent, reports said.

According to the UK government, the cost of replacing an expired passport online is set to increase by £7 to £82.50. The price for kids will increase by £4.50, from the current £49 to £53.50.

It will also cost more to apply for your new passport through a paper form collected from Post Offices, too. The price for this will rise by almost £10, from £85 to £93.

The government warned: “The new fees will help the Home Office move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.”

“The government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications.

“The fees will also contribute to the cost of processing passport applications, consular support overseas, including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders. The increase will also help enable the government to continue improving its services,” the government added.

It is the first time in five years that the cost of applying for a passport has increased, the Home Office said. Passports will continue to be issued in the Queen’s name despite her death, even with the King set to be coronated at a ceremony in May having ascended the throne back in September 2022.

A spokesman said: “Passports referencing the King will be issued once operational changes have been implemented.” The famous message on the first page said: “Her Britannic Majesty’s Secretary of State requests and requires in the name of Her Majesty all those whom it may concern to allow the bearer to pass freely…”