While holidaymakers are reminded to check their passport is still valid before booking a holiday, there is another check they’ll need to do that they might not know about.
This week, His Majesty’s Passport Office issued a warning to all British passport holders, which applies to those with new and older passports.
Brits must sign passports to avoid airport delays
Travel tip: Sign your passport before you go — unsigned passports can cause delays at border control.
(Under 12s or those unable to sign don’t need to.)
https://t.co/mW0bj5PS7h#TravelReady pic.twitter.com/138nBgc6k2— His Majesty’s Passport Office (@HM_Passport) May 25, 2026
On X, the official account for the Passport Office said: “Travel tip: Sign your passport before you go — unsigned passports can cause delays at border control.”
The government website further encourages people to make sure their passport is signed: “Sign your new passport as soon as you get it.
“You can’t use it until you do.”
Children under 12 don’t need to sign their passports, and the same applies to anyone who is unable to sign their passport due to a disability.
If this is the case, you will see ‘the holder is not required to sign’ on the page where your name and photo is.
Where should you sign your passport?
British passport holders must sign on the ‘holder’s signature’ line and make sure to use a black ballpoint pen.
If you make a mistake or need to find out more about the requirement, you can use the Passport Adviceline.
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You can use the online web chat, fill out an online enquiry form or contact HM Passport Office by phone or post.
How much does a British passport cost?
If you haven’t yet applied for a new passport, it’s worth knowing that prices increased in April.
Here are the new prices:
Standard online application:
- For adults – £102 (up from £94.50)
- For children – £66.50 (up from £61.50)
Standard postal application:
- For adults – £115.50 (up from £107)
- For children – £80 (up from £74)
A Premium Service (one day) application made from the UK will cost £239.50, up from £222.
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A standard online application that’s applied for from overseas will cost £116.50 for adults (increased from £108) and £75.50 for children (up from £70).
If you apply from overseas for a new standard passport by post, you can expect the price to jump from £120.50 to £130 for adults and from £82.50 to £89 for children.
Have you booked a holiday abroad this year? Tell us where you’re going in the comments below.
