How to Apply for a British Passport for a Child Born Abroad: Step-by-Step Guide 

If your child was born outside the UK, they may still be eligible for a British passport depending on your citizenship status. The application process can be complex, requiring proof of the child’s nationality and your own British citizenship. In this guide, we’ll cover who qualifies, the required documents, application steps, fees, and common mistakes to avoid.

Who Can Apply for a British Passport for a Child Born Abroad?

A child born outside the UK may be automatically British by descent if at least one parent was a British citizen at the time of birth. However, there are key factors to consider:

One or both parents are British citizens at the time of the child’s birth
The British parent was born or naturalized in the UK (not just a citizen by descent)
If applying through the father, the parents must have been married at the time of birth (if the birth was before 2006)
The child was born in a country that allows dual nationality

If the child is not automatically British, they may need to apply for British citizenship first before applying for a passport.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a British Passport for a Child Born Abroad

Step 1: Check If Your Child is Eligible

• Use the UK government’s nationality checker tool (gov.uk)
• If unsure, seek legal advice

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

You’ll need:

 Child’s birth certificate (showing parents’ names)
Proof of British parent’s citizenship (UK passport or naturalization certificate)
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Proof of parent’s residence in the UK (if required)

If applying from a country where the child holds a different nationality, you may also need:
Translation of documents (if not in English)
Consent letter signed by both parents

Step 3: Fill Out the Passport Application Form

The application can be completed:

• Online at gov.uk
• Using a paper form (Form OS), available from UK embassies and passport offices

 Make sure all information matches official documents to avoid delays.

Step 4: Get the Child’s Passport Photos Taken

 The photo must meet UK passport rules:

• Taken against a plain light-colored background
• Child’s face must be clearly visible (no shadows, hats, or pacifiers)
• Babies under 1 year old can have their eyes closed

Check gov.uk for photo requirements.

Step 5: Find a Countersignatory (If Required)

A countersignatory (a professional such as a doctor, teacher, or lawyer) must confirm the child’s identity if they are applying for their first British passport.

 Must have known the parent for at least 2 years
Cannot be a relative or live at the same address

Step 6: Submit the Application & Pay the Fee

Application Fees (2024)

 Online Application: £64.00
Paper Application: £75.00
Overseas Courier Fees: Additional £19.86

Where to Apply:

• Online via the UK government website
• At a British embassy or consulate if applying from abroad

Step 7: Attend an Interview (If Required)

• If the passport office needs further verification, you may be asked to attend an interview
• This usually applies for first-time applicants or if documents are unclear

Step 8: Track Your Application & Receive the Passport

• Processing Time: Standard processing takes up to 10 weeks
• Fast-Track Options: Not always available for overseas applications
• The passport will be delivered via courier to your provided address

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 Incorrect or missing documents – Ensure you provide original copies of required paperwork
Photo not meeting UK standards – Follow official UK photo guidelines
Delays in paying fees – Ensure correct payment method is used
Not using a countersignatory when needed – This is mandatory for first-time passport applications

What If My Child Is Not Automatically British?

If your child isn’t automatically a British citizen, you’ll need to apply for British citizenship by registration before getting a passport.

Steps to Register Your Child as a British Citizen

1. Check eligibility – Visit gov.uk
2. Complete the MN1 Form – This is used to apply for citizenship
3. Submit supporting documents
4. Pay the registration fee (£1,214 per child as of 2024)
5. Attend a citizenship ceremony (if required)

Once citizenship is granted, you can apply for a passport following the steps above.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a British passport for a child born abroad requires careful preparation. Ensuring all documents are in order and meeting eligibility criteria will help avoid delays or rejections.

Need Help with Your Child’s Passport Application?

If you’re unsure about eligibility or document requirements, consider seeking legal or immigration advice to make the process smoother.

FAQs

1. Can my child get a British passport if only one parent is British?

Yes, as long as the British parent was born or naturalized in the UK.

2. How long does it take to get a British passport for a child born abroad?

Standard processing takes up to 10 weeks, but it may take longer depending on the country you’re applying from.

3. Can I apply for my child’s British passport online?

Yes, you can apply via gov.uk.

4. What if my child is not automatically a British citizen?

You must first apply for British citizenship by registration (Form MN1) before applying for a passport.

5. Do both parents need to give consent for a British passport application?

Yes, unless one parent has sole parental responsibility.