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Child passports and travelling with children

Checked against GOV.UK on 9 October 2026

Quick answerUK child passports (under 16) last 5 years and cost £66.50 online. The same destination rules apply as for adults, so check your child's passport dates too. If you travel with a child who has a different surname, carry documents showing your relationship.

⏱️ Child's passport expired before a trip? The 1-week Fast Track service can be used for child passports (£156.50).

What to do now

Check every child's passport with our checker — child passports expire after 5 years, so they run out more often.
Renew online for £66.50 (or £80 by paper form). Someone with parental responsibility applies.
Get a digital photo — there are relaxed rules for babies and young children.
Plan the documents you will carry if you travel with a child alone or with a different surname.

Not sure if your passport is valid for your trip? Check it against your destination's rule in seconds — 85 destinations covered.

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Child passport basics

For children under 16, valid for 5 years.
Standard passport: £66.50 online or £80 by paper form. 54-page passport: £80.50 online or £94.
Someone with parental responsibility applies, giving both parents' details where possible. Children aged 12 to 15 also sign.
First child passport: someone confirms the child's identity online, or a countersignatory signs the paper form.
Renewal: identity confirmation is only needed if the child is under 12.

Photos for babies and young children

The child must be alone in the photo, with no toys or dummies.
Children under 6 do not need to look at the camera or have a plain expression.
Babies under 1 do not need their eyes open. You can support their head, but your hand must not be visible.

Turning 16

If your child is 16 or will be within 3 weeks, follow the adult passport process. A child passport can still be used until it expires, even after the holder turns 16 or 18.

Travelling with a child

You need permission from everyone with parental responsibility to take a child abroad. A letter from the other parent, with their contact details and the trip details, is usually enough.

If you are a single parent and your family name is different from your child's, carry the child's birth or adoption certificate and your marriage or divorce certificate. Some countries have extra rules for children — for example South Africa and Cape Verde.

Frequently asked questions

How long is a child passport valid for?

5 years for children under 16.

How much does a child passport cost?

£66.50 online or £80 by paper form for a standard passport.

Do I need a letter to travel abroad with my child?

You need permission from everyone with parental responsibility. A letter from the other parent is usually enough. If your surname differs from your child's, also carry a birth certificate and your marriage or divorce certificate.

Official sources

UK Passport Checker is an independent guide and is not part of HM Passport Office. Always apply through GOV.UK.