How to apply for baby’s passport
Do babies need a passport?
Yes — every child, no matter how young, needs their own passport to travel outside the UK. That includes holidays to Europe. You’ll need to apply for a child passport before you can travel abroad with your baby.
How much does a child passport cost?
As of 2025, the cost is:
- £53.50 for online applications
- £64.00 for paper applications via the Post Office
How long is it valid for?
Child passports are valid for 5 years — unlike adult passports, which last for 10 years.
What documents do I need to apply?
You’ll need the following:
- A completed passport application (online or paper)
- A digital photo (or printed one if applying by post) — colour, clear, and passport-standard
- Your baby’s full birth or adoption certificate (not the short version)
- Details of both parents’ passports (UK or foreign), and marriage/adoption documents if applicable
- A countersignatory — someone who has known the parent for at least 2 years, is not related, and holds a valid UK passport
When should I apply?
The UK Passport Office advises allowing at least 3 weeks — but delays can happen, so we recommend applying as soon as possible after your baby is born.
Who can apply for a baby’s passport?
The application must be made by someone with parental responsibility — usually one of the parents. You’ll need to provide details for both parents unless only one is listed on the birth certificate.
Can I book a trip while waiting for the passport?
We strongly advise against it. Delays are possible, and if the passport doesn’t arrive in time, you’ll be unable to travel — and likely unable to reclaim the cost.
Further reading you might find helpful:
