The UK Home Office has announced increases in passport application fees, set to take effect from April 8, 2026, following publication of fee changes on March 29, 2026.www.lewissilkin.comeiglaw.com Standard online adult passport renewals in the UK will rise by 8% from £94.50 to £102—the first time exceeding £100—while child applications increase from £61.50 to £66.50.www.timeout.comwww.visahq.com Other categories, including postal, overseas, and premium services, will see similar 8% uplifts, such as premium adult applications jumping from £222 to £239.50.

These adjustments form part of broader 6-8% rises across immigration, nationality, and passport fees, with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) facing a standout 25% increase from £16 to £20. The changes, subject to parliamentary approval, aim to shift the system toward full cost recovery from users rather than general taxation, funding processing, consular support, and border services. An impact assessment projects an extra £103 million from passport fees alone in 2026-27 to support digital security and next-generation e-Passports.

The Home Office states fees remain comparable to peer countries relative to earnings, with no expected drop in demand, while expedited services already operate on full-cost basis. Stakeholders have until April 8 to respond to the consultation, potentially allowing applications at current rates before the hikes. This marks the latest annual increase since 2023 amid ongoing cost pressures.