How To Renew Indian Passport in UK
The standard processing time for Indian passport renewal in the UK typically takes 4-5 weeks. Lost or stolen passport cases require a longer processing period of 6-8 weeks.
Your travel plans depend significantly on timely passport renewal in the UK. VFS Global now manages the process through collaboration with the Indian government, making it more efficient. Passport fees vary based on page count - a 36-page passport costs £56, while a 60-page version costs £74.
The renewal process needs your attention, whether you're planning international travel or holding an expired passport. This blog covers everything about Indian passport renewal in the UK that helps you understand document requirements, application procedures and processing timelines completely.
UK Passport Renewal Requirements
Getting your Indian passport renewed in the UK becomes easier when you have all the right documents ready. This preparation helps avoid delays in your application process. You'll need specific photos and important paperwork.
Your passport photos need to meet exact standards. You should submit two similar color photos (2 inches x 2 inches) with a white background that show your full face from the front. These photos must be recent - taken in the last 6 months.
Here's what you need to prepare:
- Your original passport with self-attested copies of first and last pages
- Your valid UK visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card with self-attested copies
- Your birth certificate from local Council/County
- Birth Registration Certificate from the High Commission
Your waiting time depends on your case:
- Standard renewal: 4-5 weeks
- Lost or stolen passport cases: 6-8 weeks
Some situations need extra documents:
- Passports expired over a year: Write a letter explaining your delay
- Marriage-related name changes: Bring your marriage certificate and spouse's passport copy
- Lost/stolen passports: Submit a police report, old passport copy (if you have it), and extra proof like driving license, PAN card, or Election ID
VFS Global works with the Indian government to handle passport services. You need to self-attest all document copies once. The rules are strict, so check everything carefully before your appointment.
VFS Global lets you track your application online throughout the process. Keep your application number ready to check your status easily.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The UK passport renewal process for Indian citizens works through VFS Global, the Indian government's official partner. Let’s walk you through the process step by step:
Step 1: Online Application: Your first task is to visit the official Indian passport portal (portal3.passportindia.gov.in/Online/index.html). The portal allows you to register and complete your online application form. Print the completed application once you're done.
Step 2: Schedule Appointment: Book an appointment with your nearest VFS Global center after completing your online application. You must visit the center personally unless authorized otherwise. In spite of that, your immediate family members can submit the application with a proper authority letter.
Step 3: Fee Payment: Depends upon pages
- 36-page passport
- 60-page passport
Step 4: Document Submission: Bring these items to the VFS center on your appointment date:
- Printed application form
- Required documents (originals and copies)
- Passport photographs
- Payment confirmation
Special Circumstances Processing:
Emergency Travel: The embassy handles urgent cases like medical emergencies or family bereavements directly. Tatkal Service can accelerate your processing with completion in 3-5 working days.
Lost/Stolen Passport: You'll need these extra documents:
- Police report
- Copy of old passport (if available)
- Detailed explanation letter
- Additional identity proof (driving license, PAN card, or Election ID)
Processing Timelines:
- Standard applications: 4-5 weeks
- Lost/stolen passport cases: 6-8 weeks
The VFS website's tracking feature helps you monitor your application's progress throughout the process.
Note that document requirements on the VFS website may change periodically. Self-attest all photocopies and arrange documents according to the checklist to avoid delays.
Documents Required For NRI Passport Renewal
The right documents are the foundations of a successful Indian passport renewal application in the UK. The Indian High Commission has set specific requirements to submit documents through VFS Global centers.
Here's a detailed list of documents you need to renew your passport:
Primary Documents:
- Original passport with self-attested copies of first and last pages
- Valid UK visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card
- Completed application form from Passport Seva Online Portal
- Recent proof of address - utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements
- Passport-size photographs as per application guidelines
Additional Documents Based on Circumstances:
For Name Changes:
- Marriage certificate for name changes after marriage
- Divorce evidence to revert to maiden name
- Spouse's passport copy
For Lost or Stolen Passports:
- Police report documenting the loss
- Copy of old passport (if available)
- Detailed explanation letter
- Additional proof of Indian citizenship like driving license, PAN card, Election ID, or Ration card
Special Requirements:
For Expired Passports:
- Written explanation if passport expired more than three years ago
- Valid visa proof covering UK stay period
For Indian Origin Verification:
- OCI/PIO card when applicable
- Birth certificate if date of birth discrepancies exist
You must self-attest all document copies as this is mandatory. The High Commission may ask for more documents based on individual cases.
Keep your documents organized according to the checklist to avoid delays. Document requirements change often, so check the VFS Global website before your appointment. Good preparation will help you avoid application rejection and unnecessary processing delays.
Conclusion
Getting your Indian passport renewed in the UK might look tricky at first glance, but good preparation and process understanding makes it easier. VFS Global provides a simplified process with clear options for standard renewals and special cases.
Here's what you need to know about passport renewal:
- Standard processing takes 4-5 weeks
- Document requirements vary based on your situation
- Self-attested copies save time during submission
Your application will move faster when you follow the steps and get all documents ready beforehand. You can track your application status through VFS Global's online system after you submit it.
The best approach is to begin the renewal process early before your planned travel dates. This extra time will help you handle any requests for additional documents smoothly. With this information, you can now handle your Indian passport renewal in the UK with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions: Renew Indian Passport in UK
Q1. What are the basic steps to renew an Indian passport in the UK?
To renew your Indian passport in the UK, start by completing an online application on the Passport Seva Portal. Then, schedule an appointment at a VFS Global center, pay the required fees, and submit your documents in person. Standard processing typically takes 4-5 weeks.
Q2. What documents are required for Indian passport renewal in the UK?
Essential documents include your original passport with self-attested copies of the first and last pages, a valid UK visa or BRP card, recent passport-sized photographs, and proof of address. Additional documents may be required for specific circumstances such as name changes or lost passports.
Q3. How much does it cost to renew an Indian passport in the UK?
The fee for a 36-page passport is £56, while a 60-page passport costs £74. For urgent processing through the Tatkal Service, an additional fee of £107 applies. These fees are subject to change, so it's best to verify current rates on the official VFS Global website.
Q4. What is the processing time for Indian passport renewal in the UK?
Standard passport renewal applications typically take 4-5 weeks to process. However, for lost or stolen passport cases, the processing time extends to 6-8 weeks. Urgent cases can be expedited through the Tatkal Service, which offers completion in 3-5 working days.
Q5. Can someone else apply for my passport renewal on my behalf?
Generally, you must appear in person at the VFS Global center for your passport renewal. However, immediate family members can apply on your behalf with a proper authority letter. This exception is subject to approval, so it's advisable to confirm with VFS Global beforehand.
