# Indian Passport Renewal in UK - Step-by-Step Guide Author: Savitri Bobde Author URL: https://getbelong.com/blog/author/savitri-bobde/ Published: 2026-01-10 Category: Returning NRIs Category URL: https://getbelong.com/blog/category/returning-nris/ Meta Title: Indian Passport Renewal in UK: Steps, Documents, Fees Meta Description: Complete guide to renew your Indian passport in the UK. VFS process, documents, fees, Tatkal service, and tracking. Tags: UK NRI Tag URLs: UK NRI (https://getbelong.com/blog/tag/uk-nri/) URL: https://getbelong.com/blog/indian-passport-renewal-in-uk/ ![Indian Passport Renewal in UK](https://prod.superblogcdn.com/site_cuid_clx4a3rx6000caheo10zipfw1/images/indian-passport-renewal-in-uk-1768291633348-compressed.jpg) 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](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EaxmhRZ6fTiChXQAZhqFK4) at [Belong](https://getbelong.com/). 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](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) 👉 **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](https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/page/general-information/) 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):** Document Details Online Application Form Printed from Passport Seva portal Current Indian Passport Original + self-attested copies of first and last pages UK Visa/BRP Original + self-attested copy Passport Photos 4 photos (2"x2"), white background, recent (within 6 months) Proof of Address UK address proof (utility bill, bank statement, council tax bill) Annexure E Form Self-declaration form (available on VFS website) VFS Declaration Form Downloaded from VFS website Appointment Confirmation Printed copy of your booked appointment **Additional Documents Based on Situation:** Situation Additional Documents Required Passport expired less than 1 year Self-explanation letter for delay Passport expired 1-3 years Self-explanation letter + additional ID proof Change of address New address proof in your name (utility bill, Aadhaar, bank passbook) Name change after marriage Marriage certificate + spouse's passport copy Lost/stolen passport Police report + old passport copy (if available) + additional ID Source: [VFS Global Passport Information](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) 👉 **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](https://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](https://www.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: 01. Appointment confirmation (on top) 02. Printed application form 03. Original passport 04. Self-attested copy of passport (first and last pages) 05. Original UK visa/BRP 06. Self-attested copy of visa/BRP 07. 4 passport photos 08. Annexure E form (signed) 09. 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](https://www.vfsglobal.com/india/uk/) ### **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: Service Type 36 Pages 60 Pages Normal Renewal £56 £74 Tatkal (Urgent) £163 £181 **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](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) **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: Service Type Processing Time Normal Renewal 4-5 weeks Lost/Stolen Passport 6-8 weeks Tatkal (Urgent) 3-5 working days Delivery after processing 10-15 working days Source: [High Commission of India, London](https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/) **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](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) **Tatkal Fees:** Pages Fee 36 pages £163 60 pages £181 👉 **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](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) 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](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) ## **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](https://cgibirmingham.gov.in/page/display/109/67) 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](https://getbelong.com/tools/nri-fd-rates/) for safe, rupee returns - [GIFT City investments](https://getbelong.com/blog/nri-investment-gift-city/) for tax-efficient growth - [Mutual funds](https://getbelong.com/products/mutual-funds/) for wealth building Understanding your [residential status](https://getbelong.com/tools/nri-residential-status-calculator/) is important for tax planning in both UK and India. The [UK-India DTAA](https://getbelong.com/blog/returning-nris/dtaa-benefits/) helps avoid double taxation on your investments. If you're considering [returning to India](https://getbelong.com/blog/nri-account/return-to-india/) eventually, your [RNOR status](https://getbelong.com/blog/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](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EaxmhRZ6fTiChXQAZhqFK4) is full of NRIs who've been through the process and share real experiences. [Download the Belong app](https://app.getbelong.com/LywZ/blogs) 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](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/passport-services/english/) - [High Commission of India, London](https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/) - [CGI Birmingham](https://cgibirmingham.gov.in/) - [Passport Seva Portal](https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in/) ## FAQs Q: Is appointment booking free? A:

​Yes. Appointments through VFS are free. Beware of agencies claiming to charge for appointment booking; this is a scam.​

Q: Can I expedite a normal application after submission? A:

​No. You cannot upgrade to Tatkal after submitting a normal application. Choose your service type carefully at the start.​

Q: Can I renew my Indian passport online from the UK? A:

​The application form is filled online, but you must visit a VFS center in person for document submission and biometric capture. Fully online renewal is not available.​

Q: How early can I apply for passport renewal? A:

​You can apply up to one year before expiry. We recommend applying when 6-12 months of validity remain.​

Q: What if my passport has already expired? A:

​You can renew within 3 years of expiry with a self-explanation letter. Beyond 3 years, you may face additional verification.​

Q: Can I travel while my passport renewal is in progress? A:

​No. Your old passport is retained by VFS during processing. Plan trips around this period.​

Q: What if I make a mistake on the application form? A:

​Minor errors can sometimes be corrected at the VFS counter. Major errors require a fresh application. Fill carefully.​

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