If you need a passport in a hurry, the UK has a way to get one—if you’re willing to shell out some serious cash. Whether you’ve got an unexpected trip, a last-minute business deal, or just realized your passport is out of date, the Same Day Passport service is your only real option.
This isn’t your standard passport renewal, nor is it the so-called Fast Track one-week service. I needed it because of my travels with Young Pioneer Tours, particularly for upcoming trips to South Sudan and Port Sudan. Waiting weeks just wasn’t an option.
So, how do you get a Same Day Passport in London? Here’s what you need to know.
Different Passport Options and Prices
If you’ve got time to burn, a standard passport renewal takes up to 10 weeks and costs £88.50 for the standard 34-page passport or £100 for the 54-page frequent traveler version. If you want it slightly faster, the one-week Fast Track service costs £155 for the standard passport and £166 for the larger version.
But if you need a passport immediately, the Same Day Passport service is your only option. It’s also the most expensive, setting you back £207.50 for a standard passport and £219.50 for the larger version. It’s an absolute rip-off, but so are all of our passports when compared to other nations around the world…
Can You Have Two UK Passports?
Yes, you can, but only under specific circumstances. Some travelers require a second passport if they frequently visit countries that hate each other. For example, if you have an Israeli stamp in your passport, some Middle Eastern countries will turn you away. Business travelers needing to apply for multiple visas at the same time can also qualify for a second passport.
To get one, you need to provide a valid reason and supporting documents. Typically, this means a letter from your employer (or yourself if you’re me) explaining why you need it. In my case, I just had to prove my extensive travel history and plans, which is not hard to do when you go through a passport in 18 months. And no I cannot write you a letter…..
Booking Your Same Day Passport Appointment
The Same Day Passport service is by appointment only, booked in advance through the UK government website. If you’re in London, you’ll have to drag yourself to Custom House near the Docklands.
After booking and paying online, you’ll receive confirmation, which you’ll need to show when you arrive. Print it or screenshot it—just don’t forget it, or you’ll be screwed. You will also basically make the application during this part, so have everything ready to rumble.
The Nightmare at Custom House
Arriving at the Passport Office is a joyless experience. Security is as strict as an airport, so expect baggage scans and a general lack of common sense. No photos, no hanging around, and don’t even think about arriving early—they won’t let you in more than 10 minutes before your appointment.
When it’s finally your turn, you’ll present:
- Your old passport (if renewing)
- Proof of your appointment
- Any supporting documents (if applying for a second passport)
The appointment is quick. They confirm your details, take your money, and tell you your new passport will be ready in four hours. Now you’ve got time to kill. They do though act like overzealous Nazis, so keep that in mind
What to Do While You Wait
With four hours to burn in a soulless part of London, your options are limited. I went to The Banker Pub, a proper boozer with decent beer and views of the Thames. If you’re feeling fancy, you can head to Canary Wharf, but don’t expect much excitement—this is one of the most corporate, lifeless parts of the city.
Picking Up Your Passport
When it’s finally time to collect your passport, expect frustration. The well-oiled machine of your initial appointment falls apart when it comes to collection. I waited around 45 minutes, and that was considered fast. But in the grand scheme of things, it’s better than waiting weeks.
The Verdict
Getting a Same Day Passport in the UK is expensive, annoying, and unnecessarily complicated—but it works and probably better than the other services. I personally don’t trust the “regular” to be anything such, while the one week still needs you to go to London.
Yes this costs money, but you get a same day passport on the same day, cant really ask for much more.