Brian GeekRenewing an American passport while residing in the United Kingdom can be straightforward — but the process, costs, eligibility, timelines, and document requirements differ from renewing a passport in the United States. This guide covers everything you need to know about US Passport Renewal in UK, including fees, forms, step-by-step instructions, timelines, and tips to avoid mistakes and delays.
US Passport Renewal In UK
For U.S. citizens living in or temporarily abroad in the UK, renewing a U.S. passport is usually done through the U.S. Embassy in London (Passport Services), with procedures tailored for overseas applicants.
When renewing your passport in the UK, you typically must mail your application or visit the embassy/counsel office with the right forms, current passport, photos, and fees, depending on your situation.
Below, we break down everything step by step.
Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your U.S. Passport in the UK
1. Determine Eligibility
Before anything else, confirm that you qualify for a mail-in renewal using Form DS-82. If not, you will need to visit the embassy or consulate and complete Form DS-11 in person.
2. Complete the Correct Form
Form DS-82 — Renewal by Mail
- Download from the official U.S. government site or U.S. Embassy London passport services page.
- Print, fill out legibly, and sign the form.
- Do not use third-party sites that ask for payment — they often charge extra and can be misleading.
Form DS-11 — In-Person (If Required)
- Used if your passport was lost/stolen, expired more than 15 years ago, or issued when under age 16.
- Must be submitted in person at the U.S. Embassy or one of the consulates.
3. Get U.S.-Compliant Passport Photos
Passport photos must meet strict U.S. standards:
- 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
- Plain background
- Neutral facial expression
- No glasses (unless medically required)
Note: UK-style passport photos are not always accepted due to slightly different specifications — have them checked against U.S. requirements before submitting.
4. Calculate and Pay Fees
For US passport renewal in UK, the primary fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State. Fees generally don’t include embassy service charges, mailing costs, or courier fees.
Typical costs:
| Renewal Type | Fee (U.S. Dollars) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Passport Book (Form DS-82) | $130 | Standard renewal fee |
| Passport Card (Optional) | $30 | Additional fee |
| Book + Card Combined | $160 | Slight discount |
| Form DS-11 (New or Ineligible Renew) | $165+ | Includes additional embassy/acceptance considerations |
Payment Methods:
- Paid in U.S. dollars
- Some embassies accept credit cards; others may require international money order or bank draft — check embassy instructions.
- Embassies do not accept personal UK checks.
5. Package and Mail Your Application
If renewing by mail:
- Include: DS-82 form, current passport, photos, payment, and a prepaid return envelope with tracking/courier.
- Use a reliable courier (Royal Mail Special Delivery or similar) for secure delivery.
- Send to the Passport & Citizenship Unit at the U.S. Embassy London address.
U.S. Embassy London Address:
U.S. Embassy London
Passport & Citizenship Unit
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, SW11 7US, United Kingdom.
6. Track Your Application Status
Once submitted, you can check your passport status using the U.S. Department of State’s Passport Application Status tool (online).
Note: Some applicants report that UK postal and overseas tracking might not show detailed status — keep your courier tracking receipt to monitor delivery and return. Community reports indicate that embassy acknowledgement emails may not always show status updates, even when processing is underway.
Children’s Passport Renewal (Under 16)
For minors under age 16, Form DS-11 must be used regardless — and both parents/guardians must consent.
Who Is Eligible to Renew a U.S. Passport in the UK?
The most common method for US passport renewal in UK is by using Form DS-82 — U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals. You can renew by mail if you meet all these criteria:
- You are a U.S. citizen currently residing in the UK.
- Your most recent U.S. passport is undamaged and in your possession.
- It was issued to you when you were 16 years or older.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- You still use the same name (or have official documentation of a legal name change).
If you don’t meet ALL these criteria, you may have to apply using Form DS-11, which often requires an in-person appointment.
Cost Breakdown: US Passport Renewal in UK
Understanding actual costs helps you budget properly. Below is a clear breakdown of typical charges when renewing a U.S. passport in the UK:
Government Renewal Fees
- Adult Renewal (Form DS-82): $130 (approx. £110)
- Passport Card (Optional): $30 (approx. £26)
- **Form DS-11 (New/Non-Eligible Renewal): $165+**
Additional Costs (Not Government Fees)
| Item | Possible Cost |
|---|---|
| Courier / special delivery | £15-£30+ |
| Passport photos | £10-£35 |
| Embassy appointment fees (if DS-11) | May be required |
| Amateur third-party assistance | £50-£200+ (avoid if unnecessary) |
Important: Avoid non-official services that charge extra “processing” or “expedited” fees — start with official embassy guidance. First check official U.S. government pages to avoid scams.
Timeline: How Long Renewal Takes in the UK
Processing times vary based on demand, submission method, and if you requested expedited handling.
Standard Renewal (Mail or Embassy)
Typical turnaround estimates are:
- 3–6 weeks for standard processing. Most applicants report receiving their new passport within this timeframe, assuming no issues.
Expedited or Urgent Renewal
If you have urgent travel:
- Request expedited processing (if available) through the embassy.
- Appointment slots can be limited.
- Emergency passport issuance might be possible, but immediate full validity passports are generally not issued on the same day; only emergency limited-validity passports might be available.
Tip: Submit your application at least 8–12 weeks before travel to allow for delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Renewing a U.S. passport abroad has some pitfalls. To help ensure a smooth process:
Mistake 1: Using Third-Party Sites
Many third-party agencies mimic government sites but charge extra fees. Always use .gov or official embassy pages.
Mistake 2: Wrong Photo Specs
Incorrect photo size or background can cause delays.
Mistake 3: Forgetting Return Envelope
If you don’t provide a prepaid return envelope, your passport might not be returned or will be returned slower.
Mistake 4: Last-Minute Renewal
Delays are unpredictable — apply with plenty of lead time.
Special Situations & FAQs
Can I Renew If My Passport Is Expired?
Yes — as long as it expired within the past 15 years and meets eligibility criteria, you can renew with Form DS-82.
What If My Passport Was Lost or Stolen?
You will likely need to use Form DS-11 and visit the embassy/consulate in person. Specific documentation and interviews are usually required.
Can I Track My Renewal Online?
Yes — use the U.S. Department of State’s status check tool. However, for UK mailed renewals, some tracking services may not show full updates.
Will the Embassy Return My Old Passport?
Yes — your old passport will be returned, typically punched or marked invalid. Be sure to include instructions for return in your prepaid return envelope.
Tips to Make It Smoother
Use Prepaid Tracking
Royal Mail Special Delivery ensures your package to the embassy is tracked and requires a signature.
Double-Check Photos
U.S. passport photo rules differ slightly from UK passport rules — have them checked against U.S. specifications.
Keep Copies
Make copies of all documents before mailing.
Prepare for Delays
Holiday periods, staffing changes, or high demand can slow processing.
Final Checklist: US Passport Renewal In UK
- Confirm eligibility for DS-82
- Print and complete the correct form
- Include compliant photos
- Pay applicable fees in US dollars
- Include prepaid return envelope
- Use a reliable mail/courier service
- Track the application status online