Last Updated on July 25, 2025 by Michelle Krause
British Passport expired |
If your British passport has expired and you’re planning to travel, don’t panic. You can renew it. The process is straightforward, especially if it’s been less than 10 years since expiry. Whether you’re in the UK or living abroad, renewing an expired UK passport is possible and can now be done completely online.
Most countries require at least six months’ validity on your passport for entry. The UK passport office advises checking passport expiry dates before traveling abroad to avoid unnecessary complications. If your passport has expired, or you have less than 6 months left, it’s time to take action.
Key Takeaways: Renewing an Expired UK Passport
- MyBritishPassport helps British citizens abroad renew expired UK passports quickly and securely.
- You can renew an expired UK passport as long as it expired less than 10 years ago.
- If your UK passport is expired for over 10 years, you’ll need to apply as if for a new passport.
- Most countries require 6 months’ validity, so renew early to avoid travel disruptions.
- The UK Passport Office recommends renewing well in advance.
- Renewals from outside the UK are now completed entirely online. Click here to renew your British passport with MyBritishPassport.
How long after a UK passport expires can you renew it?
You can renew your passport if it expired less than 10 years ago. If it has been expired for over 10 years, you must apply as if for a new one. The process of applying for a renewal for a long-expired passport is similar to a new passport application. You must provide proof of your identity and citizenship. MyBritishPassport can assist in making this a simple, quick process.
Can I renew my passport if it has already expired?
Yes, you can renew an expired British passport online, as long as it expired within the last 10 years. If it has been expired for over 10 years, additional documentation and checks will be required.
When Do I Need to Renew my British Passport?
Has your passport already expired, or do you have less than 6 months before it expires? Well, then, it is time to renew your passport. You can renew your passport at any time, but it is important to note that it can take up to ten weeks or more to process applications. It would be best if you also accommodated for possible delays.
If you need to travel sooner, and your passport is lost or stolen, you may apply for an emergency travel document. Click here to find out more about emergency travel documents.
You must complete an online application form and pay the relevant fees to renew your passport. Your most recent passport, as well as any other passports issued within the last ten years, must be submitted.
Click here to renew an expired UK passport.
How to Renew an Expired UK Passport
To renew your British passport after expiry, start by checking how long it has been expired:
- Less than 10 years? You can apply for a standard renewal.
- More than 10 years? You’ll need to apply as if for a new passport and provide proof of identity and citizenship.
Applications are submitted online, and your documents must meet the strict standards set by HM Passport Office. Errors or omissions can result in delays or refusal, and the application fee is non-refundable.
Can You Renew an Expired British Passport?
Yes, as long as your passport expired within the last 10 years, you’re eligible to renew it.
If your passport has been expired for longer, the process is the same as applying for a new one.
For those living abroad, the entire process can be completed online. MyBritishPassport offers a streamlined service to help you submit a successful renewal application with ease.
Click here to renew an expired UK passport
Can I Renew an Expired British Passport Online?
Yes. All British passport renewals from abroad are now done 100% online.
If you’re living in Canada, the USA, South Africa, or anywhere else outside the UK, MyBritishPassport makes the process easy. We guide you through the online form, verify documents, and manage communication with the UK Passport Office.
Step-by-Step: Renew Expired UK Passport with MyBritishPassport
- Complete our secure online application form
Fill out your expired UK passport renewal details and submit payment online. Click here for the online application form. - Get expert support
Our professional UK passport consultants verify your documents and ensure your photos and application meet HMPO standards. - We handle the submission
We submit your documents using a registered courier service, track your application, and notify you of updates. - Receive your new passport
Once issued, your passport is shipped directly to your address via DHL.
HM Passport Office does not refund fees for failed or withdrawn applications. – gov.uk
How Long After Expiry Can You Renew a UK Passport?
You can renew a UK passport up to 10 years after expiry. If it’s been longer, you’ll need to apply as though it’s your first passport, providing full supporting documents.
In both cases, it’s essential to apply early. Processing can take up to 10 weeks (or longer), especially during peak travel seasons.
Looking for information about British passport renewals from he USA? Click here.
Can I Travel with an Expired UK Passport?
No. You cannot travel internationally with an expired British passport. It is not a valid travel document, and airlines will not allow you to board.
For domestic UK travel, alternative ID such as a driver’s license may suffice. However, it’s always safer to have a valid passport. If your passport is lost, stolen, or urgently needed, you may be eligible for an emergency travel document: Click here to learn more.
How Long Before My Passport Expires Can I Renew It?
You can renew your British Passport at any time, regardless of its expiry date (as long as it has not been expired for over 10 years). Generally, it is advised to renew your passport when you have about 9 months of validity left, but you can choose to do so earlier.
‘You can apply to renew your passport at any time, regardless of its expiry date.’ – Travel Supermarket
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About MyBritishPassport
MyBritishPassport is the leading British passport renewal and application service for British citizens living abroad. We are a team of British passport consultants here to help you renew your British passport as swiftly and efficiently as possible.
We offer a fast, online British passport renewal service that can be completed from the comfort of your own home.
