How to Apply for Your First British Passport

After you become a British citizen at your ceremony, one of the first things many people do is apply for a British passport. It lets you travel on your new nationality and is proof of your status. This guide explains how to get your first adult British passport. For the steps before this, see our guides on applying for citizenship and the citizenship ceremony.

Before you apply

You can apply once you are British and have your certificate of naturalisation (or registration). Keep that certificate safe, as you will need it for the passport application.

How to apply

1. Apply online on gov.uk (this is cheaper and usually quicker than post).
2. Pay the fee and upload or provide a digital photo that meets the rules.
3. Have your identity confirmed — you ask someone eligible to confirm who you are; they get an email from HM Passport Office.
4. Send your documents, including your naturalisation certificate and any identity documents requested.
5. Wait for your passport to arrive, and your documents to be returned.

The cost

From 8 April 2026, the standard fees are:

• £102 for an adult passport applied for online.
• £115.50 for an adult passport applied for by post.

Applying online saves £13.50. Fees change over time, so confirm the current amount on gov.uk.

How long it takes

Many applications are completed within a few weeks, but it can take longer during busy periods. Do not book travel until your passport has arrived.

With your British passport, you can travel as a British citizen. If you hold another nationality too, check our guide on dual nationality for how to use each passport.