How Long Does a UK Urgent Passport Really Take? Myths vs. Reality

If you need a passport in a hurry, you’ve probably heard mixed advice: some say you can get one in 24 hours, others claim it takes weeks even with urgent services. The truth lies somewhere in between. Here’s the reality of how long UK urgent passport services really take in 2025.

Myth 1: You Can Get a Passport in 24 Hours (in Any Situation)

Reality: The Same-Day Premium Service is available only for adult renewals (not for lost, stolen, damaged, or child passports). You attend an appointment and collect your new passport within about 4 hours. If your case doesn’t qualify, this option isn’t available.

Myth 2: Fast Track Guarantees Delivery in Exactly 7 Days

Reality: The 1-Week Fast Track service aims to deliver your passport by secure courier within about 7 days of your appointment. But weekends and bank holidays don’t count, and HM Passport Office says this is a target, not a guarantee. In practice, most arrive within a week, but delays can happen if documents are incomplete.

Myth 3: You Can Just Walk Into a Passport Office

Reality: All urgent services require a pre-booked appointment. You can’t turn up without one. Appointments are limited and released daily, which is why early booking (or monitoring for cancellations) is key.

Myth 4: Urgent Means Any Situation Can Be Fixed Quickly

Reality: Urgent services only cover renewals, lost/stolen replacements, or damaged passports. First-time adult applicants, for example, cannot use urgent services and must go through the standard application route.

So, How Long Does It Really Take?

• Premium (Same-Day): 4 hours after your appointment (adults only, renewals only)
• Fast Track (1 Week): Usually 5–7 working days after your appointment, delivered by courier

Remember: The clock starts from your appointment date, not when you first apply online.

Factors That Affect Timing

• Appointment availability: May be within 1–2 days, but sometimes longer if demand is high
• Document accuracy: Missing or incorrect paperwork causes delays
• Bank holidays/weekends: These do not count towards Fast Track timelines
• Delivery issues: Courier delays are rare but possible

How NextDay Passport Helps

• We find the earliest possible appointment for you
• We attend the appointment on your behalf with a signed consent letter
• We check your documents in advance to minimise risk of rejection
• We track your passport delivery until it arrives safely

Need clarity on how fast you can really get your passport? Message us on WhatsApp: 07443 165140 or visit nextdaypassport.co.uk.

Quick Summary

• Same-Day Premium: 4 hours after appointment (adults, renewals only)
• 1-Week Fast Track: Around 5–7 working days after appointment
• Delays can occur if documents are incomplete or during busy periods
• Appointments must be pre-booked — you can’t walk in

FAQs

Can children get same-day passports?
No — children can only use the 1-Week Fast Track service.

What if I need a passport in under 48 hours?
Only adult renewals qualify for the Premium service. Other cases must use Fast Track, which is the quickest option available.

Do couriers deliver passports on weekends?
Most deliveries are Monday–Saturday, excluding Sundays and bank holidays.

Need urgent help today? Contact us on WhatsApp: 07443 165140 or visit nextdaypassport.co.uk. We’ll secure the fastest legal option for you.