The cost of applying for a UK passport online could rise above £100 for the first time, under new plans announced by the Home Office. If approved by Parliament, the proposed changes would see the standard online application fee for adults increase from £94.50 to £102. Fees for children would also rise, from £61.50 to £66.50.
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The government said the increase is intended to move the passport system closer to full cost recovery, meaning users rather than taxpayers would cover more of the service’s expenses.
Broad increases across services
The proposed changes, expected to take effect from 8 April, would apply across a range of application methods.
For postal applications within the UK, adult fees would rise from £107 to £115.50, while child applications would increase from £74 to £80.
Premium services would also become more expensive. The one-day fast-track option, commonly used for urgent travel needs, would increase from £222 to £239.50.
Applicants based overseas would face higher charges as well. Online applications from abroad would cost £116.50 for adults, up from £108, and £75.50 for children, up from £70.
For paper applications submitted overseas, adult fees would rise to £130 from £120.50, while children’s applications would increase from £82.50 to £89.
Government justification
According to the Home Office, the fees help cover the cost of processing passport applications, providing consular assistance to British nationals overseas, and managing border services for UK citizens.
Officials said the move reflects a broader policy of reducing reliance on public funds for such services.
The department also advised travellers to apply well in advance of planned trips, particularly during peak periods such as school holidays when demand can increase processing times.
Recent rises and processing times
The latest proposal follows a series of recent increases, with passport fees rising by 9% in 2023 and a further 7% in 2024.
Processing times in the UK are typically up to three weeks, although delays can occur during busy periods.
If the new pricing structure is approved, it would mark another step in a gradual increase in passport costs, with the standard online application crossing the £100 threshold for the first time.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026