Every child needs their own passport to travel — they can’t be added to a parent’s. The good news is that applying for a child’s UK passport is mostly done online and costs less than an adult’s. Here’s the 2026 guide: the cost, who can apply, the documents you’ll need, and how long it takes.
Cost and validity
- £66.50 — online application
- £80 — by paper form (at the Post Office)
A child’s passport (for under-16s) is valid for 5 years. Unlike adult renewals, no leftover validity is carried over — each child passport is a fresh 5 years.
Who can apply
Someone with parental responsibility for the child must make the application, and you must give both parents’ details when you apply. The child must be present for their photo but the adult completes the form and pays.
First child passport: what you need
A first passport needs more evidence than a renewal:
- the child’s full birth certificate and details of both parents;
- a countersignatory — someone who has known the child (or the parent) for at least 2 years, holds a current British or Irish passport, and is not a relative, partner or living at your address;
- any documents about parental responsibility, adoption or name changes, if relevant.
Photo rules for children and babies
Children must be photographed alone with nothing covering the face — no toys, dummies or supporting hands. Under-6s don’t have to look straight at the camera, and babies under 1 can have their eyes closed and be photographed lying on a plain, light sheet. Full details in our passport photo requirements guide.
How to apply, and how long it takes
Apply online via GOV.UK, upload a digital photo and pay by card. HM Passport Office advises allowing up to 10 weeks — longer between June and August — and not booking travel until the passport arrives. Urgent Fast Track and Premium services are available if you’re short on time. (Renewing an adult passport instead? See our passport renewal guide.)
Frequently asked questions
How much is a UK child passport?
£66.50 to apply online, or £80 by paper form, for a child under 16.
How long is a UK child passport valid?
5 years. No remaining validity is carried over — each child passport runs a fresh 5 years.
Who can apply for a child’s passport?
Someone with parental responsibility for the child. You must give both parents’ details on the application.
Does a first child passport need a countersignatory?
Yes — someone who has known the child or parent for at least 2 years, holds a current British or Irish passport, and is not a relative or living at your address.
How long does a child passport take?
Allow up to 10 weeks (longer in summer). Fast Track and same-day Premium services are available for urgent cases.
Do children need their own passport?
Yes — every child must have their own passport to travel; they cannot be added to a parent’s passport.
