Last Updated on July 24, 2025 by Michelle Krause
Renewing your UK passport from overseas can feel like a lot of work, especially when you’re dealing with unclear government websites, slow international mail, and strict application rules. Whether you’re a British citizen living in Australia, Spain, the UAE, or anywhere else in the world, it’s important to understand your renewal options and choose the one that works best for your needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the main methods of renewing a UK passport while living abroad, including how MyBritishPassport can offer a fast, easy, and more reliable experience.
Key Takeaways
- Renewing a UK passport from overseas involves extra steps and risks.
- MyBritishPassport offers a faster, easier, and more reliable service for British citizens abroad.
- Most clients complete their renewal in 3-4 weeks with professional help.
- Trusted by thousands, MyBritishPassport ensures your documents are handled correctly and efficiently.
FAQs – Renewing a UK Passport While Living Abroad
How long does it take to renew a passport from overseas?
If using gov.uk, it can take up to 11 weeks, not including mailing times. With MyBritishPassport, most renewals are generally completed in 3 to 4 weeks, depending on your location.
Can I renew my child’s passport from abroad?
Yes. MyBritishPassport offers full support for child passport renewals, including help with parental consent requirements, photo guidance, and a checklist of documents.
Is it safe to send my passport and documents internationally?
Yes, MyBritishPassport uses secure courier services with full tracking, so your documents are protected from start to finish.
What happens if I make a mistake in my application?
If you apply directly through gov.uk, mistakes can lead to delays or even rejection. With MyBritishPassport, your application is reviewed by experts before submission to avoid errors.
Why Passport Renewal Abroad Can Be Challenging
British expats face several additional hurdles when renewing a passport compared to those in the UK:
- International shipping delays
- Complicated document requirements
- Higher risk of rejected applications due to errors
- Long processing times – sometimes over 10 weeks
According to the UK government, overseas passport renewals can take up to 11 weeks or more, depending on your location and time of year. That’s a long wait, especially if you need your passport for travel, visas, or legal reasons.
Your Best Passport Renewal Option While Living Abroad
Use a Professional Passport Renewal Service Like MyBritishPassport.
MyBritishPassport specialises in UK passport renewals for citizens living abroad. With years of experience and a team of experts, we guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring nothing gets missed.
Pros:
- Fast and simple process
- Dedicated passport advisors
- Real-time updates and tracking
- Document checking and support with photos
- Reduced risk of application rejection
If you want peace of mind and a faster turnaround, MyBritishPassport is the trusted option for thousands of Brits around the world.
READ | Do I have to send in my old UK passport when renewing?
Why Expats Choose MyBritishPassport
We’ve helped over 30,000 British citizens worldwide renew their UK passports efficiently and securely. Whether you’re renewing a child’s passport, updating your name, or simply replacing an expired one, we ensure a smooth experience with no surprises.
“MyBritishPassport handled everything – they told me exactly what I needed, checked my documents, and my passport arrived in just over six weeks.”
– James M., British citizen living in Canada
The Numbers Don’t Lie
- Over 5 million British citizens live outside the UK.
Source: Wikipedia - In 2022, passport delays resulted in over 360,000 complaints.
Source: BBC - MyBritishPassport has helped 30,000+ UK nationals renew passports globally — with a 99.8% success rate.
Renew Your Passport the Smart Way
Don’t risk delays, errors, or lost documents with a do-it-yourself application. MyBritishPassport is here to simplify the process and give you real peace of mind.
Easy step-by-step process
Fast turnaround and expert support
Trusted by thousands of expats