Money Saving Expert is founded by Martin Lewis – and the experts have shared their tips
This April, the cost of stamps, council tax, and other essentials are rising. Not only that, but passport fees are set to increase too, though many may not be aware.
To help keep costs down, MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has shared a simple tip: take your own passport photo, and it could save you up to £13 – and if you’re renewing several passports, that extra money could go toward a nice treat on your long-awaited holiday.
MSE, founded by Martin Lewis, explained: “If it’s been a while since you last applied for a passport, you may be surprised to learn that you can now take your passport photo yourself at home and upload it directly into your online application. This means you DON’T need to shell out for photos taken at high-street shops or photo booths, which can typically cost between £5 and £13 ish.”
It added that MSE obtained figures from the Passport Office through a Freedom of Information request, which revealed that “nearly one in seven (13.5%) faced delays to their application due to issues with their photo.”
Passport photo rules
MSE recommends following the steps and advice below to maximise your chances of being accepted on your first attempt.
- You can use your smartphone – make sure the photo is clear, in focus and in colour. There’s no need to use a fancy camera (unless you have one around, of course!).
- Take it against a plain, light background. The photo should include your head, shoulders and upper body, with no other people or objects in the frame.
- Avoid editing or altering it. It will be cropped for you during the application process, so there’s no need to do that yourself.
For full details and the official guidelines, including how to take children’s passport photos, see Gov.uk.
When are passport prices set to rise?
As confirmed by GOV.UK, “changes to passport application fees will take effect on 8 April 2026.” You can check the current passport fees online here through the GOV.UK website.
Who can get a free passport?
British nationals born on or before September 2, 1929, can currently apply for or renew a passport free of charge. The Post Office’s Check and Send service is also free, including secure delivery.
Fees apply if you need a passport urgently or if you opt for a frequent traveller passport, which contains 54 pages instead of the standard 34.
