Although relatively simple on the surface, the instructions for applying for your first passport can be vague. That in itself can be a bit annoying, but because even the most minor mistake can mean redoing your application (including bothering your referee again) AND the internets seem to be rife with people giving bad advice on it, I decided to make this simple, UK-Y guide. It can be used for people who are applying for their first passport as Brits by decent, but the requirements and the actual form filling will be slightly different.
What you need:- Passport appropriate photos (2 identical)*
- Any current passports from other countries
- Any expired passports from other countries which haven't been replaced by a current one. However, you must include the passport you used to enter the country even if it is not your current one.
- Naturalisation certificate (the official one and not the ceremonial one that some councils give out.)
- Marriage certificate or deed poll documenting your name change if your name has changed from your other passport
- One professional referee (UK passport holder, professional or of standing in the community--can be retired, known you for at least 2 years)
- Money for the fee
- A black pen
The form:General advice:
- Use black ink
- WRITE IN CAPITAL, BLOCK LETTERS (unless instructed otherwise)
- If you make a mistake, totally black out the mistake
- If your referee makes a mistake, have him or her black out and initial the mistakes
- Make sure that any signatures are within the borders of the signature box and do not touch the edge.
- Also make sure that the BLOCK CAPITALS in the other sections fall within the white boxes. If you do not do this, the information might not get scanned correctly and it may delay your application.
If you are a naturalised citizen, you DO NOT need to fill out any information on your parents or grandparents (section 8 ). This is for people who have citizenship by descent. Do not sweat this section.(You need to fill this out regardless, confirmed by interviewer)
- There are several sections that need to be dated. Don't miss them. If you're using check and send, it will probably be picked up, but postal applications might be delayed if you miss these.
- Be sure to consider checking the box for secure document return. (I think this is only an option with check and send)
- Make sure your referee writes the required blurb** on the back of one of the photos and uses your FULL name including TITLE.
I think the form itself is self explanatory otherwise.
Using Check and Send:Many post office branches offer this service. If you go to the Post Office website, you can find a branch near you where you can basically have someone look over your form, photos, and documents and send them off securely. They cannot guarantee that your application does not have errors or your photos meet the requirements.
*
Photo Requirements:
Most modern photo booths will take photos with the required background, of the proper size, and even give instructions on how to centre your face in the frame. Photo shops will also usually know all the
current regulations. Some general advice:
- Remove your glasses, if possible
- Pull your hair back from your face
- Keep your face neutral (no smiling, frowning, raised brow, etc.)
The website actually goes into pretty specific advice on that, so it shouldn't be a problem for most people.
**
The referee blurb on the back of one of your two photosGood luck!