UK Old Passport

UK Passport – 2025 Guide to Validity, Use, and Digital Verification

The UK passport is the official travel document issued to British nationals. It also serves as a primary form of identification in both domestic and international contexts. Whether you’re applying for one, verifying it for digital services like AliPay, or using it for border control, this guide covers everything you need to know.

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What Is a UK Passport?

A UK passport confirms the holder’s British citizenship and their right to enter and leave the UK and other countries. It is issued by His Majesty’s Passport Office and is widely used as:

• Proof of identity
• Travel authorisation
• Document for opening bank accounts, renting properties, or applying for credit
• Verification for online platforms and international services

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Features of the UK Passport (2020–2025)

Passports issued after March 2020:

• Are blue in colour, replacing the burgundy EU-style cover
• Display “BRITISH PASSPORT” and the UK coat of arms on the cover
• Include biometric details embedded in a chip
• Feature 10 years validity (5 years for children under 16)
• Contain the holder’s name, photo, date of birth, sex, nationality, passport number, and expiry date

Biometric passports are machine-readable and suitable for automated identity verification.

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Validity of UK Passports

• Adult passports are valid for 10 years from the date of issue
• Passports must have at least 6 months’ validity remaining to enter many countries
• You cannot extend an expired passport — you must apply for a new one

Check your expiry date under the “Date of Expiry” section on the photo page.

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How to Apply for or Renew a UK Passport

Apply online at: www.gov.uk/apply-renew-passport
Requirements:

• Digital photo (compliant with passport rules)
• Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or previous passport)
• Address and contact details
• Fee: £82.50 (online), £93 (paper form) for adults

Processing time (as of 2025): up to 3 weeks, but longer during peak periods.

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Using a UK Passport for Digital Verification (e.g., AliPay, Wise, Crypto Exchanges)

A UK passport is the most widely accepted ID for online platforms, including:

• AliPay (for identity verification of international users)
• Wise, PayPal, Revolut, and Monzo
• Cryptocurrency exchanges and KYC-compliant apps
• Property rentals, job applications, and background checks

To use it for ID verification:

• Scan or photograph the photo page clearly
• Ensure all details are visible, and the passport is not expired
• Upload in JPEG or PDF format, as per platform requirements
• Some platforms may require an additional selfie or video confirmation

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Lost or Stolen UK Passport

If your passport is lost or stolen:

• Report it immediately at: www.gov.uk/report-a-lost-or-stolen-passport
• You can apply for a replacement via the online fast-track or standard service
• A police report may be required if stolen abroad

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International Travel with a UK Passport

UK passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries. However, check each country’s:

• Entry requirements
• Passport validity rules (often 6 months minimum)
• Visa and health documentation requirements

The UK is no longer part of the EU, so EU travel rules apply post-Brexit.

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