Free Passports for Over 78s Plus Backdated!

Former_MSE_Andrea

What's it about?

If you, or someone you know, were born on or before 2 September 1929 then you're entitled to a free 32-page, ten year passport, which for adults born after that date currently costs £72.

Plus, if you have one already, you may be entitled to a refund

Did you apply for a passport between 19 May 2004 and 18 October 2004 and were charged the £42 cost at the time? It's worth checking. If you did then ring the Passport Adviceline, which is open 24 hours a day, on 0870 521 0410, and they'll help you apply for a refund.

How to apply for your free passport:

Simply send in your application as usual. There's no need to send a cheque as your date of birth will be recognised and it'll be processed appropriately. You can find more help on the Direct Gov website.

Many thanks to the MoneySavers who've contributed this information. This post has been written to provide a fully researched explanation.


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julimc

For Irish citizens resident in the UK or elsewhere, the passport is free for over 65s and even mine was cheaper than the UK equivalent - worth considering if you're eligible. I've always had an ROI passport even when it was dearer, BTW. :rotfl:

julimc

Andy_Davies

Why should old people have free passports but yet kids have to pay nearly fifty quid for a five year one???

brieng

if you have to ask the question, why do old people get free passports, then you would never understand the answer.:money:

ladygeeke

My mum applied for a free passport - she is 82 and has no intention of travelling but it is really useful when she needs to provide her identity.
Admittedly full price passports are exorbitant but she has been paying for hers for 50 years so I think she deserves it.
Pat