British passport renewal abroad is a necessary evil faced by many British Expats. However the procedure is relatively easy by using the service offered by your local British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.
This is the procedure for British passport renewal abroad:
1. Down load (PDF Format) or otherwise obtain an application form from your local Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.
2. Complete as instructed making sure each page is initialled in the appropriate box.
3. Obtain two recent photographs 35mm x 45mm. These must have a white, light grey or cream background. More guidance is available on the UK Passport web site.
4. Take or send by post the completed application, photographs and old passport to the relevant British authority in your country.
A couple of things to note:
1. Arrange relevant visa transfers with your host countries immigration department.
2. Old passport might be retained by your embassy if damaged.
3. Failure to comply with conditions laid out above will result in failed application.
If you are currently contemplating British passport renewal abroad be aware that increased fees will be applicable from September 2009.
Important Updates to this Post:
Update September 2010: Passport renewals are no longer dealt with at British embassies read British Passport renewals outside the UK.
Update October 2010: For important information about forthcoming changes read British Passport Renewals update.
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