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UK passport application - original passport

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 11:07 pm
by MrX
Hello forum,

I understand that to apply for first UK passport after naturalization, one must send the original non-UK passport as per the below guidance (if applying in the UK):

"Any other uncancelled passports relating to you"

It might be possible to get away with a colour copy of the passport but it seems this option is only possible if one is applying outside of the UK.

Is there a way around this, i.e. not sending the original passport? I will need it back approximately 3 weeks after the passport application is made for long travels and 3 weeks is not enough time to get the passport back with a reasonable degree of certainty (it might or it might not work). Any solutions / ideas here?

Much appreciated.

Re: UK passport application - original passport

Posted: Sat Apr 14, 2018 7:28 am
by Hstepper07
MrX wrote:
Fri Apr 13, 2018 11:07 pm
Hello forum,

I understand that to apply for first UK passport after naturalization, one must send the original non-UK passport as per the below guidance (if applying in the UK):

"Any other uncancelled passports relating to you"

It might be possible to get away with a colour copy of the passport but it seems this option is only possible if one is applying outside of the UK.

Is there a way around this, i.e. not sending the original passport? I will need it back approximately 3 weeks after the passport application is made for long travels and 3 weeks is not enough time to get the passport back with a reasonable degree of certainty (it might or it might not work). Any solutions / ideas here?

Much appreciated.
I think the only way is to apply for British passport together with naturalization at NCS and you get to keep your passport. Applying for British passport separately after naturalization takes about 6 weeks and you have to submit originals.

Re: UK passport application - original passport

Posted: Sat Apr 14, 2018 9:44 am
by MrX
Thank you.

I am wondering then if I should apply "ouside of UK" during my travels and send them a colour copy only. Is that what HMPO means by outside of UK? Or if your permanent address is based in the UK you can't do that.