First time passport application...

Hello,

Ive recently become aware of my British citizenship (by descent)

as I understand it, I became such simply by being legitimately born to a British born father (in the US).


I've decided that I will apply for a UK Passport.


I do have a couple of questions if anyone would like to take a crack at it.

1. I do not have a US passport. Of course this is something I would need to do before leaving the country, but I am wondering as the app asks for current passports, would it look strange or be cause for denial if I do not have a US passport?
I was hoping to spare the expense of doing so. My other option is a US Passport Card (only good for land/sea travel in NA & Caribbean) this is only $30. However, if I can obtain my UK passport without doing either, that would be preferable as this process is more about claiming my birthright than satisfying immediate travel plans.

2. I have a copy of my fathers birth certificate, however it is a copy. His original, from 1949 is in poor shape and he is unwilling to allow me to mail it off with the app. Will a photocopy be sufficient or should I look into getting an official copy?


That is all.

Thank you!

You do not need a passport to apply for a British Passport, but you'd need a US Passport to re-enter the US wouldn't you?

If your Father was born in the UK just order an official copy from the GRO.