HM Passport Office has said that demand for its service has hit an all-time high. and is urging travellers to make sure they have their passport in good time for their trip. The message comes after holidaymakers have been left adrift after strict rules on expiry dates have led to passengers being turned away from flights.
If you are jetting off on holiday soon and either need to get a passport for the first time or need to renew, the Government office state make sure you don't leave your application to the last minute.
Due to COVID-19, HM Passport Office saw a significant drop in the number of people applying for passports, with over 5 million people delaying their applications throughout 2020 and 2021. But with international travel returning to normal, more and more people are applying for a new passport.
READ MORE: TUI, Ryanair, Jet2 and Easyjet face mask rules for passengers
Since April 2021 HM Passport Office has been advising people to allow up to ten weeks when applying for their passport. This remains the case. With holiday season fast approaching demand for passports could increase further.
The Passport Office says that with demand as an all-time high: "People are being urged not to leave their application for a British passport to the last minute".
Director General of HM Passport Office, Abi Tierney, said: "Now that international travel has resumed, we know people will be looking at going away on holiday and yet many people are leaving applying for a passport too late. The summer holidays are fast approaching so if you need a new passport, we urge you to apply now."
The department added: "Our dedicated staff are working tirelessly to ensure that passport applications are processed as quickly as possible."
There there are urgent services for people who need their passport more quickly, however appointment availability is limited and incurs an additional cost. Details of how to apply for a UK passport can be found here - Applying online.
