UK Passport question - what should i do??

Question

I am from the UK and have applied for my 1st adult passport.

Here's my problem - I am going on holiday on 8th July and I have just been told that I must try and get my passport interview this week if I stand any chance of getting my passport on time.

Does anyone know how long it takes - or if there is a way to speed up the process AFTER you pass the interview? Has anyone had an interview?

I am really in a pickle here guys and i'm gonna have to cancel my holiday and lose a lot of money, so if you have any good advice please help! Thanks

Answer 1

Wow, I probably would have made sure I had a passport before booking an expensive holiday. Ring the Passport people, I am sure for an extra fee they can put it through quicker for you.

Answer 2

Sorry but you cannot fast track a first time passport...looks like you are going to have to cancel the holiday.

Answer 3

the only people that will speed it up for you are the passport people, usually if you pay more money. For a new passport it shouldnt take long however, as its a standard print and send.

HOWEVER! you have left it late, i would have my fingers toes legs and arms crossed you get it on time, otherwise, if you are travelling europe, see if you can use a drivers licence as ID, if you have one.

Answer 4

Go straight to passport house in Petty France ( near to New Scotland Yard ) and explain the situation there. Do not try to phone them as all they will say , once you get through, is that you will need to in and see them!

Why do you have to have an interview anyway if you are a British citizen?

Answer 5

How long does it take to get my first UK adult passport?

It now takes six weeks to get your first adult passport, and you may need to attend an interview in order to protect your identity. If you need to apply for your first passport please try not to make any travel arrangements until you have received your passport. For more information, visit www.ips.gov.uk or text passport to 84414. For current processing times you can phone the UK Passport Office recorded message on 0870 521 0410. If you hold a Commonwealth or other passport, you should phone the consulate of the country you plan to visit. Please note that the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) can no longer provide a Fast Track service for first-time applicants, however those who are renewing their passports do not require an interview, and can still use the Fast Track service.

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Why are passports changing and will I be affected?

If you are an adult (16 or over) and you need to apply for a passport for the first time, or if your name was previously included in your parent’s passport, you must attend an interview with the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) in person to confirm your identity. This new process does not apply to you if you held your own passport as a child, or if you simply need to renew your passport. These new procedures have been put in place to help stop fraudulent passport applications and prevent identity theft.

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Where will the interviews be held and what happens if I can’t get there?

IPS is opening 69 interview offices throughout the UK between May and December 2007. Over 95% of the population will live within an hour’s travelling time of an interview office, from either their home or workplace. In some remote locations, if you live more than one hour from an interview office, you may be able to take advantage of secure videoconferencing facilities. This will allow you to be interviewed by visiting a partner organisation, such as local council premises. For more information, please visit www.passport.gov.uk or text Passport to 84414 for free.

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How long will the interviews take and what sort of questions will be asked?

The whole process will take approximately 30 minutes, including an interview of 10-20 minutes. At the interview you will be asked basic – not deeply private – information about yourself that can be checked to confirm that you are who you say you are.

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How will I know whether I’m required for an interview?

During this initial introduction not all first-time applicants will be called to attend an interview. If you are called to attend an interview, it is compulsory and you will receive a letter from the IPS asking you to book an appointment. If you do not receive a letter, you are not required to attend an interview.

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Can I still apply for a passport at a Post Office?

Yes. First time adult customers will be able to do this by using the standard application form. Applications can be sent directly by post or by using the Check&Send service available at selected branches of the Post Office and Worldchoice travel agents.

if it come's down to it sell your holiday on ebay,