Immigration | Who should I contact about my application for a British passport?

Dear Mr Bassie,

I have applied for my British passport. The process is taking longer than expected and I would like to know what I should do.

– D.D.

Dear D.D.,

With respect to passport advice and complaints, persons may contact HM Passport Office (HMPO) about British passports issued in the United Kingdom (UK). There are different ways to contact HMPO depending on the circumstances. As for questions about visas or immigration, persons should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Those persons who are waiting for their new passport should be able to obtain an update by tracking their passport application. However, to do this they will need their application reference number. They should also be able to check how long passport applications usually take.

Advice

For general advice, persons may speak with an advisor online using web chat or use the online enquiry form – the will get a reply within 72 hours. In addition, they may contact HMPO by phone or post. The contact details are as follows:

Passport Adviceline

Telephone: 0300 222 0000

From outside the UK: +44 (0)300 222 0000

Text relay: 18001 0300 222 0000

Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday and UK bank holidays, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Find out about call charges

HM Passport Office

PO Box 767

Southport

PR8 9PW

If the passport is needed urgently persons can pay to use the Fast Track or Online Premium Services to get a passport if they think the standard service will take too long. Please note that, if an application for a passport has already been made and it has not been received as yet, do not apply again using the Fast Track or Online Premium services. Please be aware that using this service will not get the passport sooner or get a refund.

Persons should call the Passport Adviceline (see contact details above) if they need to travel urgently because they need medical treatment; or if a friend or family member is seriously ill or has died; or if working for, or are representing the government.

In the event that persons need to make a complaint, they can either use the online enquiry form – they will get a reply within 15 days or contact HMPO by post at the aforementioned address.

Good luck

John S. Bassie is a barrister/attorney-at-law who practises law in Jamaica. He is a justice of the peace, a Supreme Court appointed mediator, and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. Email: lawbassie@yahoo.com