Thousands of Britons could be carrying an invalid passport without realising it, according to a fresh alert from the authorities. HM Passport Office has issued a crucial reminder that a new passport is not valid for international travel until the holder has signed it in the correct manner.
The Critical Step Many Forget
In a post on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, the Passport Office delivered a clear instruction. "Don't forget to sign your passport!" the message read. It clarified that most individuals aged 11 or over must sign their passport before it can be used for travel. The only exception is if the document explicitly states "The holder is not required to sign".
The official guidance on the Gov.uk website reinforces this point, advising customers to sign their new passport as soon as it arrives. "A passport issued after receipt is not a valid travel document until the holder has signed it," the guidance states. This simple but essential step is often overlooked in the excitement of receiving a new passport.
How to Sign Correctly to Avoid Problems
Signing your passport is not as simple as just picking up any pen. The Passport Office has issued specific rules to follow to ensure your document remains valid.
- You must use a black ballpoint pen.
- Sign only on the designated holder's signature line.
- Use your usual signature. Signing the wrong name (like a nickname) is a mistake that can invalidate the passport.
- Never sign in pencil, coloured ink, or use correction fluid.
- Do not cross out or alter the signature in any way.
It is also vital to avoid erasing a pencil signature, as this can damage the passport page. The office notes that passports issued with a digitally printed signature remain valid until their expiry date and do not require a handwritten signature.
Costs and Consequences of an Invalid Passport
With the current cost of a standard adult UK passport set at £94.50 for an online application or £107 for a paper form, ensuring it is valid is essential. A child's passport costs £61.50 online or £74 on paper. These documents are typically valid for ten years for adults and five years for children.
The consequence of travelling with an unsigned or incorrectly signed passport is severe: you will likely be denied boarding by your airline or refused entry at border control. This could lead to ruined holidays, missed business trips, and significant financial loss.
The warning, issued on Monday, serves as a timely reminder for all travellers to check their passport's validity beyond just the expiry date. Before booking your next trip, take a moment to ensure your signature is present, correct, and applied in the right way with a black ballpoint pen.
