First Adult British Passport Application

[mideoye]

Hi All,

I have some few questions regards my 1st British passport application after naturalisation.

I intend to send the naturalisation certificate using a strong/hard-back envelope to ensure it's not bent or damaged. I am concerned about damage to the envelope when it's returned back to me - will they send it back using a hard-back envelope so it's returned undamaged, or do I have to send an additional hard-back envelope which can be used to return it to me?

Many thanks

[alterhase58]

It's probably best you call the HMPO helpline to get their advice on mailing options.
Personally I just sent mine in a plastic document packet using the plastic Special Delivery envelope, got it back ok, the return envelope got folded but no physical damage.

[mideoye]

Thank you. I'll probably do the same at the post office tomorrow.

[mideoye]

Update to my initial post - the passport office didn't use the hardback envelope I sent along with my supporting documents and returned this in a thin white envelope and you can guess what happened.

The courier were not careful with the envelope and my naturalisation certificate was returned damaged - like it's been stabbed through the centre.

Called the passport office helpline today to lodge a complain and ask for a new certificate to be reissued free of charge as they ignored my instruction (they acknowledged that the hardback envelope was received and not sure why it wan't used to return the documents).

Waiting now to hear back from them

[alterhase58]

Very unfortunate.
You should claim from HMPO the cost of a replacement certificate (£250). Replacement certificates can only be issued by UKVI - you need to apply yourself: https://www.gov.uk/get-replacement-citi ... ertificate

[mideoye]

Hi,

I rang up the passport office contact number and explained what had happened. Great thing I called them earlier to let them know I was including a hard back envelope for the document return and I was surprised this request had been logged on record but was never effected.

So I was asked to return the damaged naturalisation certificate and A5 delivery envelope to a PO BOX address for investigation and I was advised yesterday that a replacement certificate has been ordered free of charge with the UKVI which would be sent out to me. Also received an apology and refund authorisation for the secure delivery fee and cost of the postage envelope I sent with my supporting documents.

Expecting delivery of the replacement certificate over the next few weeks. Hoping it wouldn't get damaged also.

Hopefully this experience would help anyone else who find themselves in similar circumstances

[alterhase58]

Thanks for the update on this issue. It's interesting that HMPO can liaise directly with UKVI, saving you the bother to apply yourself.