Feedback, experiences, timelines, tips and useful information from people that have recently been through the UK passport application process.
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Adult Renewal Passport
Type of Application:
Adult Passport Renewal
Passport Office:
Hemel Hempstead
Submission Date:
12-07-2023
Date Received:
Not Received
Overall Experience:
1 Star – Very Stressful
Comments:
Terrible experience.
I submitted my application for renewal in early July (now over 2 months ago), and sent my passport in the post shortly after. I was provided with an online tracker for my application which stated that my documents had been received, but I also kept getting sent emails and letters telling me that my documents had not been received, and that I was still required to send them. This discrepancy was obviously confusing, but I decided to trust the online tracker which kept getting linked to in all the messages, as it still stated that my documents had in fact been received. A week ago, however, I received a new message saying “Send us your documents or your application will be withdrawn”. Obviously confused, I called up the advice line directed to in the messages and on the passport office’s website, but all I was offered was an automated voice telling me that I could check the application tracker website for updates on my renewal (which I had been checking for the past two months religiously).
I am now two and a half months down the road, with my passport apparently lost somewhere, and my application for renewal withdrawn. I am entirely unsure on how to proceed from here.
Type of Application:
Adult Passport Renewal
Passport Office:
Hemel Hempstead
Submission Date:
12-08-2023
Date Received:
29-08-2023
Overall Experience:
5 Star – Very Easy
Comments:
Make sure not to use zoom when taking the photo. This affects the quality of the image and it will be rejected.
The software will crop the image automatically when it is uploaded.
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Child Renewal
Type of Application:
Child Renewal
Passport Office:
Not Sure
Submission Date:
14-08-2023
Date Received:
29-08-2023
Overall Experience:
5 Star – Very Easy
Comments:
We explained why our disabled son was unable to meet the photo criteria (his mouth wasn’t closed). We enclosed a diagnosis letter and DLA paperwork and the photo was accepted, no problem.
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We have a very small favour to ask………….
We really hope this information is helpful to you and reduces stress whilst you are waiting for you passport. If you are able to make a small donation for the cost of a coffee it really helps us to maintain the site and continue to make improvements for future passport applicants.