Last Updated on June 19, 2025 by Michelle Krause
Topic | UK Passport Renewal for Children
Renewing a UK passport for your child is an essential task for families living abroad. Whether you’re planning international travel or simply staying compliant with UK identification laws, making sure your child’s passport is valid and up to date is crucial. At MyBritishPassport, we specialise in helping British citizens overseas with fast, secure, and stress-free passport renewals. This guide outlines everything parents need to know when renewing a UK passport for children.
Quick Overview
This comprehensive guide from MyBritishPassport breaks down exactly what parents need to know about UK passport renewal for children, whether your child’s passport is expiring or has already expired. From required documents and photo standards to processing times and common delays, we cover it all. With expert support, secure courier services, and a proven track record helping British families in over 60 countries, MyBritishPassport makes the process simple, reliable, and stress-free.
What supporting documents do I need for a UK passport renewal for a child?
You’ll need the child’s current or most recent passport, a completed application form, recent passport photos, proof of parental identity (if requested), and payment confirmation.
Do you need both parents' signatures for a passport in the UK?
No, only one parent or legal guardian needs to provide consent and sign the application.
How often do you renew a child's passport UK?
Every 5 years. It’s recommended to renew when there are less than 6 months remaining.
Key Takeaways
- Child passports are valid for 5 years and should be renewed 6 months before expiry.
- Applications from abroad require careful attention to detail and additional courier time.
- MyBritishPassport offers expert assistance, from form completion to photo verification.
- Avoiding common mistakes like poor photo quality or missing documents can save weeks of delay.
- Professional services like ours improve approval speed and reduce the risk of rejection.
Who Needs to Renew a Child’s Passport?
UK child passports are valid for 5 years and are issued to applicants under the age of 16. If your child’s passport is expired or due to expire within the next 6 months, it’s time to begin the renewal process.
Children who turn 16 during the application process may be required to apply for an adult passport instead.
What Documents Are Required? – UK Passport Renewal for Children
To renew a UK passport for a child, the following documents are usually needed:
- Completed Child Passport Application Form – Available through MyBritishPassport’s secure portal.
- The Child’s Current or Most Recent Passport – Must be submitted with your application.
- Recent Digital Passport-Sized Photos – These must meet UK passport photo standards. MyBritishPassport offers a photo-checking service to ensure acceptance.
- Proof of Parental Identity – Some cases may require supporting documents like a birth certificate or proof of legal guardianship. Don’t worry, we will guide you accordingly.
- Payment Confirmation – All fees must be paid in full before the application is processed.
All documents must be in English or Welsh or accompanied by a certified translation.
Read: How Far in Advance Can I Renew My UK Passport
Applying from Abroad: What to Expect
For British citizens living overseas, the passport renewal process comes with a few extra steps. But that’s where we can help. We guide you through every requirement and help minimise delays caused by international shipping or incorrect paperwork.
Key overseas considerations:
- Additional courier and international delivery fees.
- Longer processing times.
- Country-specific document rules.
With over a decade of experience, we’ve assisted British families in over 60 countries including Spain, the UAE, Australia, and the United States. The delivery costs are also included in our fees.
How Long Does It Take?
While processing times can vary, passport renewals from abroad typically take between 3 to 4 weeks, especially during peak seasons such as school holidays or Christmas.
At MyBritishPassport, we help clients avoid delays by reviewing and verifying documents before submission.
Why Applications Get Delayed
Many parents experience delays because of common, avoidable mistakes:
- Submitting incorrect or poor-quality photos
- Forgetting to include the old passport
- Missing parent signatures or documents
MyBritishPassport checks each application for completeness and accuracy to help prevent rejection or processing setbacks.
“From 10 December 2007 any applications received to renew a passport for children under 12 are required to be countersigned. This will help examiners when the child cannot be identified from their previous passport. “ gov.uk
How MyBritishPassport Makes It Easier
Renewing a passport from overseas shouldn’t be a stressful experience. At MyBritishPassport, we take care of the details so you don’t have to. Here’s what we offer:
- Step-by-step guidance
- Form checking and completion
- Secure courier services are included in our fees.
- Around-the-clock customer support
- Photo review and compliance check
Thousands of expat families trust MyBritishPassport to manage their UK passport renewals securely and efficiently.
Ready to Renew Your Child’s Passport?
Don’t wait until it’s too late—passport processing can take weeks, and travel plans depend on having valid documents. Let MyBritishPassport handle the details so you can focus on what matters most: your family.
Start your child’s passport renewal now with MyBritishPassport.
Need help now? Contact MyBritishPassport today and get expert assistance with your child’s passport renewal from anywhere in the world.
“Renewing my British Passport Online was a breeze – fast, efficient and effortless thanks to the step by step guidance by Jan, the British Passport Consultant, who helped me throughout the process. I was amazed by the smooth and competent manner in which the renewal was handled, courier pick up and delivery arranged for me and I had my new.” – Lorna Grant via Google Reviews
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Topic: UK Passport Renewal for Children
