Last Updated on September 2, 2025 by Michelle Krause
Quick Answer: Can I Renew an Expired UK Passport?
Yes – you can renew an expired UK passport, even if it expired more than 10 years ago. If it expired within the last 10 years, the process is similar to a standard renewal. If it has been expired longer than 10 years, you’ll usually need to apply as if it’s your first adult passport, providing extra documents. An expired passport cannot be used for travel, so renew before booking flights. Start your renewal online with MyBritishPassport for expert help abroad.
Having a valid passport is key when you’re living or traveling outside of the UK. But what happens if it expires? Many British citizens abroad might feel unsure about how to renew it, especially with new online processes in place.
This article will guide you through the steps and show you how MyBritishPassport can make things much easier. Let’s get started!
UK Passport Expiry Basics:
A typical adult UK passport is valid for ten years, while a child’s is valid for five. This shorter validity for children’s passports is attributed to the significant changes in a child’s appearance, requiring more frequent photo updates.
While you have the option to renew your passport at any time, it’s highly recommended to begin the renewal process around nine months in advance. Beginning early ensures that you have plenty of time to gather all the necessary documents, address any potential issues, and navigate the renewal steps.
This is particularly crucial for those living or traveling outside the UK, as being abroad might require additional time for shipping documents, or dealing with unforeseen delays. By allowing yourself this nine-month cushion, you reduce the risk of finding yourself with an expired passport when you might need it the most.
What Happens if My UK Passport Expires While Abroad?
An expired UK passport cannot be used for international journeys. Should you be abroad when it expires, you have two main options:
- Apply for an Emergency Travel Document from a British embassy or consulate.
- Renew the expired passport and wait for its processing and delivery.
Remember, many destinations mandate a minimum of six months validity on your passport upon entry. Therefore, familiarise yourself with the entry requirements of your destination to prevent travel disruptions.
Key Points: If your passport expires abroad
- You cannot travel with an expired passport.
- Apply for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) for urgent travel.
- Start renewal online for a full replacement as soon as possible.
Can I Renew an Expired UK Passport?
Absolutely, renewing an expired UK passport is possible. For those whose passports have lapsed for less than ten years, you’ll find the process largely uncomplicated and similar to the standard renewal procedure.
On the other hand, if it’s been more than a decade since your passport expired, be prepared for a more detailed procedure. In such cases, the steps to renew are similar to those of a first-time passport application, often necessitating additional documents to ensure all criteria are met. Click here to renew your expired British passport online.
Expert Tip – Jan Swanepoel, Senior Advisor at MyBritishPassport:
“In our experience, you can usually renew a UK passport that expired less than 10 years ago without major issues. But if it’s been expired longer, you’ll likely need to provide extra documents, similar to a first-time application. Starting early avoids unnecessary stress and delays.”
How MyBritishPassport Can Help
MyBritishPassport, since its inception, has been dedicated to making the passport application and renewal process for British citizens abroad as straightforward as possible. If you’re renewing an expired passport, the process is similar to a standard renewal. However, if the expiration has been extensive, you may be required to provide additional documents. Don’t worry; our dedicated team of specialists is on hand to guide you throughout.
Renew Expired Passport: Step-by-Step Process:
- Fill out our online application form.
- If your latest issued British passport is still valid or not expired for too long then it is a standard renewal. Click “NEXT” and proceed.
- If your latest issued British passport was issued or expired a long time ago then it will be similar to a first-time passport application. It is still a ‘British Passport Renewal’ not a ‘First-time Passport Application’ because you have had a British passport before. Click “NEXT” and proceed.
- Finalise your secure payment online via debit or credit card.
- Our British passport consultants will assess your application and accompanying documents, ensuring they meet HM Passport Office’s strict criteria.
- We facilitate the swift and safe couriering of your documents to the necessary UK government department.
- Await the delivery of your new British passport directly to your overseas address.
FAQs Answered
How long after expiration can you renew a British passport?
You can renew a British passport at any time after it expires. If it has been expired for more than 10 years, you’ll need to provide extra documents similar to a first-time application.
Can I renew my expired UK passport online?
Yes. All UK passport renewals from abroad are now done exclusively online. In-person applications are no longer an option. Click here to apply online.
Why should I use a service like MyBritishPassport for my renewal?
Given the stringent standards set by the HM Passport Office for renewals from abroad, using the expertise of a seasoned provider like MyBritishPassport can make the process smoother and error-free.
What if my passport has been expired for a very long time?
While the process remains predominantly the same as a standard UK passport renewal from abroad, you might need to provide extra documentation, depending on how long it’s been expired for.
How do I renew my British passport if I live abroad?
All renewals from overseas must be completed online. You’ll need to send your old passport, new photos, and supporting documents by courier.
Read | Passport renewal after expiry UK – What to do
Did You Know?
Nearly 28% of UK passport renewals from abroad face delays due to missing or incorrect documents (GOV.UK). Double-checking your application, or using a service like MyBritishPassport, can help you avoid common setbacks and get your passport faster.
About MyBritishPassport
MyBritishPassport is at the forefront of providing British passport services to British citizens abroad. Our aim? Making the passport application or renewal procedure for Brits abroad straightforward and hassle-free. With our team of specialists, secure payment methods, and efficient delivery services, you’re in safe hands.
Our services include:
- An easy, online application process.
- Safe and secure payments via Stripe – the world’s safest payment gateway.
- Application checking – Our experts will check your forms & documents and passport photo and finalise the application on your behalf.
- Sending applications – We arrange safe & fast shipment of documents to the relevant government office in the UK.
- Safe and fast delivery to your doorstep. Your new British Passport or certificate is delivered directly to your doorstep.
Understanding UK passport expiration rules is essential for smooth travels. If you’re abroad and your passport expires, renewal is still achievable. With MyBritishPassport by your side, the procedure becomes simpler and more efficient. Always ensure your passport’s validity well in advance to guarantee uninterrupted travel experiences.
Read | Can a British Citizen Return to the UK with an Expired Passport?
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Topic: Can I renew an expired UK passport?
