With international travel picking up again, passport renewals are becoming one of the biggest causes of missed holidays in 2026. Thousands of UK travellers are discovering — often too late — that expired or soon-to-expire passports can lead to denied boarding, cancelled trips, or lost money.
The message from officials is clear: apply early, even if your passport hasn’t fully expired yet.
Who Handles UK Passport Renewals
UK passports are issued and renewed by the HM Passport Office, which processes millions of applications each year.
In 2026, demand remains high due to:
- Post-pandemic travel recovery
- Stricter overseas entry rules
- Increased checks on passport validity
- A surge in first-time and renewal applications
Why Passport Delays Are Still Happening in 2026
Although processing has improved compared to previous years, delays still occur because of:
- Seasonal surges in applications
- Incomplete or incorrect forms
- Poor-quality photos
- Extra identity or security checks
- Applications submitted too close to travel dates
Officials warn that waiting until the last minute is the biggest risk factor.
A travel industry adviser said:
“Most delays aren’t because the system is broken — they happen because people apply too late.”
How Early You Should Apply
General guidance for 2026:
- Apply at least 10 weeks before travel
- Apply earlier if:
- You’ve changed your name
- Your passport is damaged
- You’re renewing a child’s passport
- You need a first adult passport
Even straightforward renewals can take longer during peak periods.
Passport Validity Rules Catching Travellers Out
Many travellers don’t realise that:
- Some countries require at least 6 months validity remaining
- EU destinations require passports to be less than 10 years old from the issue date
- Extra months added to older passports no longer count
You could be refused travel even if your passport appears valid for your return date.
Online vs Paper Applications
Most adults can renew online, which is usually:
- Faster
- Easier to track
- Less prone to errors
Paper applications often take longer and are more likely to be delayed if details are unclear.
What Has Not Changed
Despite rumours:
- UK passports still last 10 years for adults
- You don’t need to wait until expiry to renew
- Renewing early does not reduce your new passport’s length
- Emergency appointments are limited and not guaranteed
Early renewal remains the safest option.
Real Experiences From Travellers
Claire, from Surrey, narrowly avoided losing a holiday.
“My passport technically hadn’t expired, but it didn’t meet the six-month rule. I had to rush a renewal,” she said.
David, from Manchester, wasn’t as lucky.
“I assumed I had plenty of time. My passport didn’t arrive before the trip and I lost the booking,” he explained.
What to Check Before You Apply
Before submitting your renewal:
- Check your passport issue date, not just expiry
- Make sure your photo meets current standards
- Confirm all personal details are correct
- Allow extra time if applying during spring or summer
Small errors can add weeks to processing.
What to Do If You Need to Travel Urgently
Urgent services exist, but:
- Appointments are limited
- Not everyone qualifies
- They are more expensive
- Availability varies by location
These services should be a last resort, not a plan.
Q&A: UK Passport Renewal 2026
1. Can I renew before my passport expires?
Yes.
2. How early should I apply?
At least 10 weeks before travel.
3. Are delays still happening?
Yes, especially during peak periods.
4. Is online renewal faster?
Usually.
5. Does renewing early shorten my new passport?
No.
6. Are EU rules stricter now?
Yes.
7. Do extra months on old passports count?
No.
8. Can children’s passports take longer?
Yes.
9. Are urgent services guaranteed?
No.
10. Do name changes slow things down?
Often, yes.
11. Can poor photos delay applications?
Yes.
12. Is tracking available?
Yes, for online applications.
13. Can I travel while renewing?
No.
14. Are passport scams common?
Yes — only use official services.
15. What’s the key message?
In 2026, applying early for your UK passport renewal is the simplest way to avoid delays, stress, and lost travel plans.
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