Question 1

How long does passport renewal take in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Normal: 4–6 weeks. Tatkal: 1–2 weeks (subject to approval).

Question 2

Can I renew my passport without an OCI card?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Passport renewal is independent of your OCI status.

Question 3

Is Tatkal available in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Tatkal is available but subject to eligibility and approval by High Commission.

Question 4

Can minors renew passports in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, minors can apply via parents with birth certificate and consent letters.

Question 5

Do I need to submit old passports?

Accepted Answer

Yes, previous passports must be submitted along with the renewal application.

Question 6

Can I renew my Indian passport through the post in 2026?

Accepted Answer

No. As of 2026, all Indian passport renewals in the UK require an in-person appointment at VFS Global for biometric enrolment and document verification.

Question 7

What should I do if my BRP is lost but I need to renew my passport?

Accepted Answer

You must first obtain a "Home Office Confirmation" of your status or a UKVI Share Code. A passport renewal cannot proceed without proof of valid UK residency.

Question 8

Is the Indian address mandatory if I have lived in the UK for 10 years?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every Indian passport application requires a "Permanent Address" in India. This address is used for police records, even if your "Current Address" is in the UK.

Question 9

Do I need to surrender my old passport?

Accepted Answer

The old passport is "cancelled and returned" to you. It is not permanently kept by the authorities, but it must be submitted during the processing period.

Question 10

Can I change my name after marriage in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will need your Marriage Certificate (if issued in the UK, it must be Apostilled by the FCDO; if issued in India, it should be attested).

Blogging

Indian Passport Renewal UK 2026: The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide for NRIs