Guidance

Introducing the new UK passport

This document explains the changes to the UK passport, which was introduced in October 2010.

• From: Home Office and HM Passport Office
• Published: 9 February 2011

Documents

Introducing the new UK passport (PDF file - 338kb)

PDF, 331 KB, 4 pages

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Details

It covers the new security features (chip, watermark, biographical page and secondary image) and new design theme.

The Identity and Passport Service (IPS) is committed to maintaining the integrity and security of the passport, so that UK nationals have a modern and secure document when they travel.

We update our passport at regular intervals to keep pace with the latest security developments. This ensures that the security of the UK passport is continually improved to combat fraud.

In October 2010, we will be phasing in a new version of the passport, featuring a new design and improved security features to ensure that the UK passport remains a highly secure and trusted document meeting rigorous international standards.

Some customers will get the current passport during this time of transition and any existing passports will remain valid until their date of expiry. It is usual for valid passports with different designs to be in circulation at any one time.

Published 9 February 2011