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Online Passport Renewal

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I need to renew my passport.

Instructions on the government website says a digital photo is needed and I want to be prepared before starting the process. 

 Does anyone know if existing passport photo can be used  or do I need a new one. When I renewed my driving licence there was an option to just use existing photo which website had stored.

 Otherwise I'm assuming all the rules re size, background etc apply. My existing photo was a hard copy sent by post so not saved digitally. 


I am still recognisable from 10 years ago. 🤣
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Comments

  • sheramber
    sheramber Posts: 22,451 Forumite
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    https://www.gov.uk/photos-for-passports


    Digital photos

    You need a digital photo to apply for a passport online.

    You must get a new photo when you get a new passport, even if your appearance has not changed.

    Your photo must have been taken in the last month.

    Your application will be delayed if your photos do not meet the rules.

  • maman
    maman Posts: 29,709 Forumite
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    Thanks @sheramber. I didn't see that. It seems all the usual rules on size and background apply. At least now you can take your own and choose one that looks faintly human. 😁
  • brianposter
    brianposter Posts: 1,523 Forumite
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    Taking a passport photo can be a complete PITA. For my photo using a flash seemed to be essential.
  • maman
    maman Posts: 29,709 Forumite
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    Taking a passport photo can be a complete PITA. 
    Yes, that's why I was hoping I could use the existing one. 
  • Brie
    Brie Posts: 14,666 Ambassador
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    maman said:
    Thanks @sheramber. I didn't see that. It seems all the usual rules on size and background apply. At least now you can take your own and choose one that looks faintly human. 😁
    Oh don't do that!  No one at immigration will know what to do with you!!  And remember - no glasses and above all else NO SMILING!!!!

    Human!? PHFFF!
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  • martinbuckley
    martinbuckley Posts: 1,725 Forumite
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    edited 16 August 2021 at 8:51PM
    maman said:
    Taking a passport photo can be a complete PITA. 
    Yes, that's why I was hoping I could use the existing one. 
    You cant use the same photo.  If you are not good at taking a selfie, then go to a booth that provides your photos in electronic format and upload that one.  If you wear glasses, take them off before having your photo taken.

    The turnround time is up to 10 weeks, assuming all is well.
  • greyteam1959
    greyteam1959 Posts: 4,710 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    maman said:
    Taking a passport photo can be a complete PITA. 
    Yes, that's why I was hoping I could use the existing one. 
    You cant use the same photo.  If you are not good at taking a selfie, then go to a booth that provides your photos in electronic format and upload that one.  If you wear glasses, take them off before having your photo taken.

    The turnround time is up to 10 weeks, assuming all is well.
    10 weeks ??
    I got mine within 7 working days 

  • smudge56
    smudge56 Posts: 690 Forumite
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    Get someone to take the photo for you against a plain cream background, as taking a selfie is usually a mirror image so may be rejected. 
  • PompeyPete
    PompeyPete Posts: 7,126 Forumite
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    I used the service offered by the Post Office.  It involves everything, including taking an acceptable photo.  Very, very simple.
  • Remember the photo must be on a plain white background, mine was rejected simply for being against a door with a panel, I guess sticking a sheet of paper over it might have worked. I gave up after a couple of rejections and paid for the passport approved booth one (you get a code you can supply with your application)
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