Indian Passport Renewal in UK - Step-by-Step Guide

Your Indian passport expires in three months. You have a trip to Dubai planned. 

And now you're wondering: how exactly do I renew my passport while living in the UK?

We get this question often in our WhatsApp community at Belong. Many UK-based NRIs put off passport renewal until the last moment, then panic when they realize the process takes 4-5 weeks.

The good news? Renewing your Indian passport in the UK is straightforward once you know the steps. 

The process is handled through VFS Global, the authorized partner of the High Commission of India. You fill an online form, book an appointment, submit documents, and collect your new passport.

This guide walks you through every step, the exact documents you need, current fees, processing times, and what to do if you need your passport urgently.

Who Can Renew Their Indian Passport in the UK?

You can renew your Indian passport from the UK if you meet these conditions:

You are eligible if:

• You hold a valid Indian passport (even if expired within the last 3 years)
• You have a valid UK visa or BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
• You want to renew before expiry or within 3 years of expiry
• Your passport has run out of blank pages
• You need to update personal details like address or appearance

You are not eligible for standard renewal if:

• You've acquired foreign citizenship (you need to surrender your passport instead)
• Your passport expired more than 3 years ago
• You're making major changes like name or date of birth (this requires additional verification)

Source: VFS Global UK

👉 Tip: If your passport was originally issued in India (not in the UK), police verification may be triggered. This can add 30+ days to your processing time. Plan accordingly.

VFS Global Centers in the UK: Where to Apply

The Indian passport renewal process in the UK is managed by three Indian Missions through VFS Global centers:

High Commission of India, London

• Covers: London, Wales, Northern Ireland, and surrounding areas
• VFS Centers: London, Belfast

Consulate General of India, Birmingham

• Covers: Midlands and Northern England
• VFS Centers: Birmingham, Manchester

Consulate General of India, Edinburgh

• Covers: Scotland
• VFS Centers: Edinburgh, Glasgow

Source: High Commission of India, London

You must apply at the center that covers your area of residence. When filling the online form, select the correct jurisdiction (UK-London, UK-Birmingham, or UK-Edinburgh).

Documents Required for Indian Passport Renewal

Getting your documents right is crucial. Missing or incorrect documents are the most common reason for delays.

Mandatory Documents (For All Applications):

Additional Documents Based on Situation:

Source: VFS Global Passport Information

👉 Tip: Self-attest all photocopies. This means signing on each copy with "Self-attested" and your signature. VFS will reject documents without self-attestation.

Photo Requirements: Don't Get This Wrong

Incorrect photos are a common reason for application rejection. Follow these specifications exactly:

• Size: 2 inches x 2 inches (51mm x 51mm)
• Background: Plain white only
• Face coverage: 80-85% of the photo
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
• Quantity: 4 identical photos

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Wearing white clothing (blends with background)
• Wearing glasses (not allowed even for prescription wearers)
• Selfies or home photos
• Photos with shadows on face
• Wearing head covering (unless for religious reasons)

Most UK pharmacies like Boots and Snappy Snaps offer passport photo services. Specify you need Indian passport photos with a white background.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Renew Your Indian Passport

Here's the complete process from start to finish:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

Visit the official Passport Seva portal for Indian Embassies and Consulates: embassy.passportindia.gov.in

1. Register as a new user (if you don't have an account)
2. Select your Mission: "UK-London", "UK-Birmingham", or "UK-Edinburgh"
3. Fill the application form carefully
4. Choose "Re-issue of Passport" as the application type
5. Select 36-page or 60-page booklet
6. Review all details before submitting
7. Print the completed application form
8. Note your Application Reference Number (ARN)

👉 Tip: Double-check your name, date of birth, and passport number against your current passport. Even small mismatches can cause rejection or delays.

Step 2: Book Your VFS Appointment

After completing your online application:

1. Visit the VFS Global appointment portal: vfsglobal.com/india/uk
2. Select "Passport Services"
3. Choose your nearest VFS center
4. Pick an available date and time
5. Print your appointment confirmation

Appointments are required. Walk-ins are not accepted. During peak seasons (summer, Diwali), appointments may be limited. Book as early as possible.

Step 3: Prepare Your Document Folder

Organize your documents in this order:

1. Appointment confirmation (on top)
2. Printed application form
3. Original passport
4. Self-attested copy of passport (first and last pages)
5. Original UK visa/BRP
6. Self-attested copy of visa/BRP
7. 4 passport photos
8. Annexure E form (signed)
9. VFS declaration form (signed)
10. Address proof
11. Any additional documents specific to your case

Keep originals and copies in separate folders. VFS staff will verify originals and retain copies.

Step 4: Visit the VFS Center

On your appointment day:

• Arrive 15-20 minutes early
• Bring all original documents and copies
• Be prepared to wait (30-45 minutes typically, longer during busy periods)
• Your biometric data (fingerprints, photo) will be captured
• Choose your delivery option (Royal Mail, DX Secure, or self-pickup)
• Pay the applicable fees

Only one family member is allowed inside the center. Friends or agents cannot accompany you.

Step 5: Track Your Application

After submission, track your application status:

• Online: Use VFS Global tracking tool with your application number
• SMS/Email: You'll receive automatic updates at each stage

Tracking stages include:

1. Application received by VFS
2. Forwarded to Embassy/Consulate
3. Under review
4. Processed and dispatched to VFS
5. Ready for collection/dispatch

Source: VFS Global Tracking

Step 6: Receive Your New Passport

Your new passport will be delivered based on your chosen method:

• Royal Mail: Standard delivery (included in fees)
• DX Secure: Premium courier service (additional fee)
• Self-pickup: Only available at select centers

Upon receipt, verify all details immediately. Check your name, date of birth, validity dates, and photo. Report any errors to VFS within 24 hours.

Passport Renewal Fees in the UK (2025)

Here are the current fees for Indian passport renewal in the UK:

Additional Charges:

• VFS Service Fee: £7.44 per application
• Consular Surcharge: £2 (included in above fees)
• DX Secure Courier: Additional fee (optional)

Source: VFS Global UK

Payment Methods Accepted:

• Cash
• Debit/Credit Card
• Postal Order (payable to "VF Services UK Ltd")
• Bank Draft

👉 Tip: Fees change periodically due to exchange rates. Always verify current fees on the VFS website before your appointment.

Processing Time: How Long Does It Take?

Standard processing times vary by service type:

Source: High Commission of India, London

Factors That May Increase Processing Time:

• Passport originally issued in India (may trigger police verification)
• Incomplete or incorrect documents
• Major changes in personal details
• High volume periods (summer, festivals)
• Pending clarifications from authorities

👉 Tip: If you have travel plans, apply at least 8-10 weeks in advance. Never book flights assuming your passport will arrive on time.

Tatkal (Urgent) Passport Service

Need your passport urgently? The Tatkal service offers faster processing.

Tatkal Processing Time: 3-5 working days (not guaranteed)

Who Can Apply for Tatkal:

• Indian citizens with valid UK visa/BRP
• Passport not expired more than 3 years
• Simple renewal (no major changes)

Who Cannot Apply for Tatkal:

• Passport expired more than 3 years
• Name change required
• Date of birth correction
• Place of birth change
• Short validity passport renewal
• No valid UK visa

Additional Documents for Tatkal: You must provide two additional Indian ID proofs (original + self-attested copies):

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar Card
• Indian Driving License
• Voter ID Card
• Election ID

Source: VFS Global Tatkal Information

Tatkal Fees:

👉 Tip: Tatkal is not guaranteed. Travel or visa application deadlines may not qualify as valid reasons. Apply under normal service with plenty of time for best results.

Renewing a Minor's Passport (Under 18)

Passport renewal for children requires additional documentation and procedures.

Documents Required:

• Child's current passport (original + copies)
• Birth certificate (original + copy)
• Both parents' passports (original + copies)
• Consent letter from both parents
• School ID card (if applicable)
• Proof of UK residence for child

Important Rules:

• Both parents must sign the application form
• If one parent cannot attend, a notarized consent letter is required
• For single parents, relevant court orders or death certificate required
• Children under 15 receive 5-year validity passports

👉 Tip: For divorced or separated parents, carry custody documents. Incomplete consent documentation is a common reason for rejection of minor applications.

Can Someone Else Submit My Application?

Yes, but with restrictions.

Who Can Submit on Your Behalf:

• Spouse
• Blood relatives (parents, siblings, children)

Requirements for Third-Party Submission:

• Authorization letter from the applicant
• Photo ID of the bearer (proving relationship)
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Bearer must know details of the application

Who Cannot Submit:

• Friends
• Travel agents
• Solicitors
• Any non-family member

Source: VFS Global UK

You must still attend in person for biometric collection (fingerprints and photo) unless you're a minor or medically unfit.

Lost or Stolen Passport: What to Do

If your passport is lost or stolen, here's the process:

Step 1: Report to Police File a report with UK police immediately. Obtain a crime reference number and written police report.

Step 2: Gather Documents

• Police report (original)
• Copy of lost passport (if available)
• Any other Indian ID (PAN card, Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License)
• UK visa/BRP copy
• Self-explanation letter describing how passport was lost

Step 3: Apply for Re-issue Follow the standard application process, selecting "Re-issue" as the service type and "Lost" as the reason.

Processing Time: 6-8 weeks (longer than standard renewal due to verification)

Important:

• Report the loss to the Indian High Commission
• If found later, the lost passport is automatically cancelled
• You cannot use a found passport after reporting it lost

👉 Tip: Keep digital copies of your passport, visa, and important documents in cloud storage. This helps during emergencies.

Emergency Certificate (EC) for Urgent Travel

If you need to travel immediately and cannot wait for passport renewal:

Emergency Certificate allows:

• One-way travel to India only
• Validity: Usually 7-30 days
• Not valid for travel to other countries

When to Apply:

• Medical emergency in India
• Death of close family member
• Urgent unavoidable circumstances

Process:

1. Contact the High Commission directly (not VFS)
2. Explain your emergency situation
3. Provide supporting documents (medical reports, death certificate, etc.)
4. If approved, EC is issued within 1-2 days

This is not a substitute for passport renewal. Once in India, you must apply for a new passport before returning to the UK.

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Application

Learn from others' experiences. These mistakes commonly cause delays:

1. Selecting Wrong Jurisdiction 

If you live in Scotland but select UK-London, your application will be redirected, adding weeks to processing.

2. Mismatched Information 

Name spelled slightly differently on form vs. current passport causes verification delays.

3. Missing Self-Attestation 

Every photocopy must be self-attested. Missing even one can mean rejection.

4. Incorrect Photo Specifications 

Photos not meeting ICAO standards are rejected at the counter.

5. Expired Proof of Address 

Utility bills older than 3 months may not be accepted.

6. Forgetting to Print Application Form 

The online process generates a PDF. You must print and bring it.

7. Not Booking Appointment 

Walk-ins are not accepted. No appointment means no service.

8. Applying Too Late 

Starting the process 2 weeks before travel is too late. Plan 8-10 weeks ahead.

UK Address on Indian Passport: The Rules

By default, you cannot have a UK address on your Indian passport. Your Indian address is printed on the passport.

Exception: If you have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and no permanent address in India, you may request a UK address by:

1. Providing an affidavit declaring no permanent Indian address
2. Submitting proof of ILR
3. Including UK address proof

Changing Your Indian Address: If you want to update your Indian address, provide:

• Proof of new address in your name (utility bill, bank passbook, Aadhaar, Voter ID)
• If address belongs to a relative, provide their consent letter and relationship proof

Source: VFS Global Passport Information

E-Passport Update: What UK-Based Indians Should Know

India launched the electronic passport (e-Passport) program in 2025. The CGI Birmingham began issuing e-Passports to UK residents in December 2025.

What is an e-Passport? An electronic passport contains a chip storing your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) for enhanced security and faster immigration processing.

Current Status in UK:

• e-Passports are being rolled out gradually
• Not all VFS centers issue e-Passports yet
• Standard passports remain valid until expiry

Benefits of e-Passport:

• Enhanced security features
• Faster immigration clearance at e-gates
• Harder to forge or tamper

Source: CGI Birmingham

If you receive a standard passport now, it remains valid. You don't need to apply for e-Passport until your current passport expires.

Tips for a Smooth Passport Renewal Experience

Based on feedback from our community, here are practical tips:

Before Applying:

1. Check your passport expiry date and start early
2. Verify your jurisdiction based on residence
3. Gather all documents before filling the online form
4. Take passport photos at a professional studio

During Application:

1. Fill the form slowly, verify every field
2. Save/print your application reference number
3. Book appointment immediately after form submission
4. Organize documents in order

At VFS Center:

1. Arrive early but not too early (they have limited waiting space)
2. Dress appropriately for biometric photo
3. Be patient; peak times mean longer waits
4. Choose DX Secure if you have travel plans soon

After Submission:

1. Track application status regularly
2. Respond promptly to any clarification requests
3. Verify all details on new passport upon receipt

What Happens to Your Old Passport?

After your new passport is issued:

• Your old passport is cancelled (stamped as cancelled)
• Old passport is returned to you with the new one
• Valid visas in old passport remain valid
• Carry both passports when traveling (old with visa + new)

Some countries require visa transfer to new passport. Check specific country requirements before traveling.

Planning Your Finances as a UK-Based NRI

While you're handling your passport renewal, it's also a good time to review your India investments and tax situation.

Many UK NRIs in our community invest in India through:

• NRE/NRO Fixed Deposits for safe, rupee returns
• GIFT City investments for tax-efficient growth
• Mutual funds for wealth building

Understanding your residential status is important for tax planning in both UK and India. The UK-India DTAA helps avoid double taxation on your investments.

If you're considering returning to India eventually, your RNOR status offers significant tax benefits for the first few years.

Need Help? Connect With Our Community

Passport renewal is one of many administrative tasks UK-based Indians navigate. Our WhatsApp community is full of NRIs who've been through the process and share real experiences.

Download the Belong app to compare FD rates, explore tax-efficient investment options, and access tools designed specifically for NRIs.

Questions about passport renewal or NRI finances? We're here to help.

• VFS Global UK - Indian Passport Services
• High Commission of India, London
• CGI Birmingham
• Passport Seva Portal