Short answer: If you’re applying for your first adult UK passport, there is no 1-Day Premium and no 1-Week Fast Track option. The one major exception is a first child passport (under 16), which can use the 1-Week Fast Track service. Everything else you may have heard online is usually a misunderstanding or out of date.

What “urgent” really means for first-time passports

• First adult passport (16+ requesting first ever passport): You cannot use 1-Day Premium or 1-Week Fast Track. You must apply using the standard service. Timelines vary based on checks, documents and the time of year.
• First child passport: You can use the 1-Week Fast Track. You attend an HM Passport Office appointment; the passport is then posted to you by HMPO (it’s not printed the same day).
• 1-Day Premium: For adult renewals only (not lost, not stolen, not first-time).

Emergency Travel Document (ETD): If you are already abroad without a valid passport and need to travel urgently, you may be able to get an ETD through the nearest UK consulate. This is not a UK first-passport fast-track; it’s a separate emergency route for those already overseas.

How NextDay Passport can still help (even for first-time adults)

Even when an official “urgent” pathway isn’t available, we reduce delays by removing the common causes of rejection and resubmission:

• Appointment handling: Where an HMPO appointment is needed (e.g., 1-Week Fast Track for a child), we book and attend on your behalf.
• Document check: We verify forms, supporting documents, parental responsibility evidence (for children), name-change documents, and photo compliance before submission.
• Countersignature guidance: We advise if an identity confirmation is required (typical for first-time applications and some child cases) and help you get it right first time.
• Photo standards: We recommend digital code photo services to minimise rejections.
• Status & next steps: We keep you informed and advise on realistic timelines.

Timelines you can expect

• First adult passport (standard): HMPO processing varies (weeks, not days). Good preparation avoids restarts.
• First child passport with 1-Week Fast Track: Appointment required; passport is posted by HMPO after processing (not same-day).

Important: Availability of HMPO appointment slots can change quickly and varies by passport office. We monitor this constantly and secure the earliest feasible option, then attend for you.

What you’ll need for first-time applications

Requirements can vary based on your circumstances (where/when you were born, parents’ nationality, name changes). Typical items include:

• Completed online application (we guide you step-by-step and generate your reference).
• Proof of identity/nationality (e.g., full birth certificate, parent details as applicable).
• Countersignature to confirm identity (often required for first-time adult and child applications).
• Compliant photos (we recommend a digital photo service with code to reduce rejection risk).
• Any supporting evidence (e.g., deed poll for name changes, parental responsibility documents for children).

We’ll send you a tailored checklist so you only prepare what you actually need.

Costs overview (2025)

HM Passport Office fees are paid directly to HMPO at the time of booking/submission. Our service fee covers expert checks, booking, and attending the appointment on your behalf (where applicable). If you choose secure hand-delivery for a 1-Day Premium renewal (not available for first-time) we’ll quote based on location and urgency.

Common myths we hear (and the reality)

• “There’s a hidden first-time adult fast track if you call at the right time.”
  No — first-time adults cannot use Premium or Fast Track.
• “Post Office Check & Send makes it urgent.”
  It reduces errors but doesn’t speed up HMPO processing.
• “If I’m flying soon, HMPO will always expedite.”
  Not guaranteed. Urgency alone doesn’t override first-time rules.

Need help today?

Message us on WhatsApp and we’ll advise the fastest legitimate route for your situation, then handle the heavy lifting:

WhatsApp us: 07443 165140

Or visit nextdaypassport.co.uk

Email us - info@nextdaypassport.co.uk