The UK government has announced that passport fees will rise significantly in April 2026, marking a historic moment as the cost of a standard adult passport will exceed £100 for the first time. The new online application fee for adults will be set at £102, while children under 16 will see their passport fees increase to £66.50.
Postal applications for adults will also see a rise, increasing from £107 to £115.50. For children, the postal application fee will rise from £74 to £80. Additionally, those seeking a Premium Service application from within the UK can expect to pay £239.50, up from £222.
For applications made from overseas, the standard online application fee for adults will increase to £116.50, up from £108, while children’s applications will rise to £75.50, from £70.
The Home Office has clarified that the government does not make any profit from passport applications. A spokesperson stated, “The new fees will help the Home Office to continue to move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.”
This fee increase follows a trend of rising costs, with increases of 7% in each of the last two years and a 9% increase in 2023. The changes are intended to help the Home Office manage its expenses effectively.
As the new fees await parliamentary approval, many observers are keen to see how these changes will impact travel plans for families and individuals alike. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional adjustments that may arise during the approval process.
