With many travellers having delayed their passport renewals during the pandemic, the Passport Office last week reported an unprecedented rise in demand and is advising travellers to allow up to 10 weeks to process a renewal application*. Airport Parking & Hotels (APH.com) is aiming to help savvy travellers avoid last minute ‘passport panics’ this Summer by publishing a Holidaymakers Passport Guide in the Travel Know How section of the website.

The APH Holidaymakers Passport Guide is available at www.aph.com/passportcosts and compares the costs and requirements when applying for a new adult and child’s passport, as well as the process for renewing, replacing or updating a passport.

For would-be travellers with time on their hands, the most cost-effective process is to apply through the standard option at a cost of £75.50 online or £85.00 by post for an adult passport, and £49.00 online or £58.50 by post for a child’s passport. The application process time is currently around 10 weeks.

For those in a rush, then the most suitable option is the Online Premium Service which promises an appointment two days later and the passport given on the same day. This does however come at a costly £177 for a standard adult 34-page passport and £187 for an adult 50-page frequent traveller passport.

Parents should also note that children’s passports have a shorter validity and should check before travelling, with a standard adult passport valid for 10 years, whereas a standard child’s passport is only valid for five years. It’s not possible to renew a children’s passport through the Online Premium Service and so the quickest option is the One Week Fast Track Service at £122 for a standard passport. If a child is aged between 12-15, they will need to sign the form in addition to the person with parental responsibility.

Nick Caunter, Managing Director of Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) said, “Understandably, following the uncertainties around international travel during the pandemic travellers have delayed applying or renewing passports during the last two years. For those travellers looking to enjoy a Summer holiday abroad, the APH Holidaymakers Passport Guide highlights the timings and paperwork required to apply for all types of passports. We hope this can help travellers plan ahead and avoid any disruptions to their longed-for holidays.”