UK Passport Application Fees Increase Effective April 2025

Abhinand PS
Mar 20
2 min read

As of April 10, 2025, the UK government has implemented a 7% increase in passport application fees, marking the third rise in just over two years.

GOV.UK

This adjustment aims to ensure that the costs of processing passport applications are met by those who use the service, reducing reliance on general taxation.

UK passport cover with gold royal coat of arms and text "United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland" on dark background.

Current Passport Fees

Application Method	Applicant Type	Previous Fee	New Fee
Online (UK)	Adult	£88.50	£94.50
	Child	£69.00	£74.00
Postal (UK)	Adult	£100.00	£107.00
	Child	£69.00	£74.00
Premium Service	Adult	£207.50	£222.00
(1-day, UK)	Child	£176.50	£189.00
Online (Overseas)	Adult	£101.00	£108.00
	Child	£65.50	£70.00
Postal (Overseas)	Adult	£112.50	£120.50
	Child	£77.00	£82.50

GOV.UK

Reasons Behind the Fee Increase

The Home Office has stated that the fee hike is necessary to cover rising manufacturing and processing costs associated with passport production. By adjusting the fees, the government aims to ensure that the passport service remains self-sustainable, reducing the burden on taxpayers.

GOV.UK

Impact on Travelers

For frequent travelers and those planning trips abroad, this fee increase means higher upfront costs for obtaining or renewing a passport. It's advisable for individuals to check the validity of their passports well in advance of any planned travel to avoid expedited processing fees, which have also seen an increase.

Comparative Perspective

With the latest increase, the cost of a UK adult online passport application now stands at £94.50. This positions the UK among the countries with higher passport fees in Europe, surpassing nations like Germany and France. However, it's still lower than countries like Switzerland, where passport fees are notably higher.

Actionable Insights

Plan Ahead: To avoid higher fees associated with expedited services, ensure you apply for your passport well in advance of your intended travel date.
Choose Online Applications: Opting for online applications can save you money compared to postal applications. For instance, an adult online application costs £94.50, while a postal application is £107.00.
Stay Informed: Regularly check the official UK government website for any updates on passport fees and processing times.

FAQs

Why have passport fees increased?
The fees have been raised to cover the rising costs of manufacturing and processing passports, ensuring the service remains self-sustainable.
GOV.UK
When did the new fees come into effect?
The new fees were implemented on April 10, 2025.
GOV.UK
Are there any differences in fees between online and postal applications?
Yes, online applications are generally cheaper than postal ones. For example, an adult online application now costs £94.50, while a postal application costs £107.00.
How do UK passport fees compare internationally?
The UK's adult online passport fee of £94.50 is higher than some European countries but lower than others like Switzerland.