If you need a passport in a hurry, the UK actually offers a surprisingly efficient way to get one—provided you’re willing to pay. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, have an unexpected trip coming up, or simply forgot to renew your passport in time, the One Day Passport service is your best bet.
This is different from a standard passport renewal or even the one-week Fast Track service. I personally needed it due to my travels with Young Pioneer Tours as well as upcoming trips to South Sudan. and Port Sudan.
So, how do you go about getting a One Day Passport in London? Here’s the full process.
Different Passport Options and Prices
If you don’t need your passport immediately, you can opt for a standard renewal, which takes up to 10 weeks and costs £88.50 for a standard 34-page passport or £100 for the 54-page “frequent traveler version”. The one-week Fast Track service speeds things up, costing £155 for the standard passport and £166 for the larger version. This though will still need you traveling to London, thus not justifying the £50 saving.
And if time is of the essence, the One Day Passport is the way to go. It comes at a hefty price of £207.50 for a standard passport and £219.50 for the larger version. You’re paying for speed, but when you need it, you really do no need it.
Can You Have Two UK Passports?
Yes, you can hold two valid UK passports, but only under specific circumstances. Some travelers require a second passport if they frequently visit countries that are hostile toward each other. For example, if you travel to Israel, having an Israeli stamp in your passport can cause issues when entering certain Middle Eastern countries. Likewise, business travelers who need to apply for multiple visas at the same time may also qualify for a second passport.
To obtain a second passport, you need to provide a valid reason and supporting documentation. Typically, this includes a letter from your employer (or yourself if you’re self-employed) stating why you require a second passport. In my case, as someone who regularly visits countries that don’t play nice with each other, I simply had to provide proof of my extensive travel history.
And no, YPT cannot write you a letter…..
Booking Your One Day Passport Appointment
The One Day Passport service is only available by appointment and must be booked in advance. You can do this via the official UK government website, where you’ll select your nearest Passport Office. In London, this means a trip to Custom House, near the Docklands.
Once you’ve booked and paid online, you’ll receive confirmation of your appointment. You must print or screenshot this, as you’ll need to show it when you arrive. It should also be noted that you fill on the online form, as well as post your photo here rather than do it the traditional way.
The Process at Custom House
Arriving at the Passport Office isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Security is tight, so expect airport-style screening. No photos, no unnecessary loitering, and don’t bother arriving too early—they won’t let you in more than 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
When your time slot comes, you’ll present your documents, which include:
- Your existing passport (if renewing)
- Proof of your appointment
- Any supporting documents (if applying for a second passport)
The appointment itself is straightforward. They verify your identity, process your documents, and then inform you that your new passport will be ready in about four hours.
Killing Time While You Wait
With four hours to kill, you’ve got options. I personally headed to The Banker Pub, a proper boozer with a solid beer selection and a great view of the Thames. Others might prefer grabbing food at one of the many spots in Canary Wharf, just a short DLR ride away.
When it’s finally time to pick up your passport, expect a slightly less efficient experience. While the initial process runs like clockwork, collection can take a little longer. In my case, I waited around 45 minutes, but considering the alternative of waiting weeks, I wasn’t about to complain.
Final Thoughts
Getting a One Day Passport in the UK isn’t cheap, but it’s an incredibly useful service if you’re in a bind. The process is strict but efficient, and as long as you come prepared, you’ll walk out with a brand-new passport by the end of the day. If you travel frequently or have urgent plans, knowing this option exists can be a real lifesaver.
About Post Author
