Post
by rajesh9pl » Mon Jan 02, 2012 1:10 pm
Thanks!
Yes, It was open.
HCI has changed alot since my last visit in 2006. They have self operated token issuing machines, like Royal Mail. Monitors display your token number, so you know your standing in the queue. They have seats, where you can sit and wait. A lot has changed!
On website, they ask for 4 photographs, however they take only two - one to be pasted on form and another in loose.
You need to enclose a copy of your passport as well, if you are applying for renewal (expiring passort which had initial validity of 10 years).
If you are applying for your child born in UK then first you need register his birth, cost GBP 17. Later, you need to enclose the copy of birth registration reciept along with passport application. You can photocopy in a shop (cyber cafe type) few shops next to Somerset House, 15p per copy.
On child's passport, they will imprint either of parent's address (as mentioned on their passport). If you need to provide a different address then you need enclose that address proof on either parent's name.
If you want to enclose self addressed (Special Delivery) envelope then do inform the guy upfront when you are handing over application, if he has already issue reciept and you want to enclose envelope at the end then its hard for him to rectify. Do let him know upfront.
While you are in queue, if you want to go loo then you can find toilet in Starbucks, roundabout next to Somerset House, diagonally opposite. Be courteous to buy an item from Starbucks after using their toilet.
If you can any question then please send me PM.
Cheers!
