In a dispute over jobs, wages, and working conditions, Passport Office employees will be on strike for five weeks, from April 3 to May 5, in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Around a fifth of the 4,000 staff members at the Passport Office are anticipated to strike.
So how will this affect passport renewals? Here’s everything you need to know if you require a new passport.
What do you need to renew a passport?
There are two ways you can renew your passport — online or using a paper application form.
To renew online, you’ll need: a digital photo, a credit or debit card, and your passport.
You can obtain a paper application form by either going to a post office that has a Check and Send service or calling the Passport Adviceline.
Payment is taken through debit or credit card or a cheque, made payable to ‘HM Passport Office’.
You’ll need two new and identical printed photos of yourself.
It costs £82.50 to renew online while it’s a little more expensive using the paper application method at £93.
Who can countersign?
Your countersignatory needs to:
— be able to identify you, such as a friend, neighbour, or coworker, and have known you (or the adult who signed the form if the passport is for a child under 16) for at least two years (not just someone who knows you professionally).
— either work in (or be retired from) a recognised profession or be "a person of good standing in their community”.
You cannot ask someone to countersign your passport if you’re related to them by birth; you’re married to them or in a relationship with them; or live at the same address as them.
How long does it take?
The Government website states you should allow up to 10 weeks from when officials receive your old passport, any supporting documents, or confirmation of your identity details if needed. There are different turnaround times if you’re applying from another country.
