Passport applications for Britons resident overseas must now be made online

British residents living in Italy must now make their passport applications online via the GOV.UK website, as part of a worldwide change to the British passport process.

Applicants will find that the new process, which includes online payment, generates a personalised pack that must be printed, signed and sent with photographs and any additional documentation that may be required, to the passport office in the UK – and no longer to the British consulate or embassy.

Once an application has been submitted, applicants will receive instructions on how to track its progress via the website.

It is important to apply in good time as a new passport will take at least four weeks from the time the completed application pack is received by the passport office in the UK, or six weeks if replacing a lost or stolen passport.

“Don’t leave it until the last minute to apply for your passport,” advises British Consul in Rome Joyce McDougall. “You can apply up to nine months in advance and any unexpired time will be added to your new passport.”

Applicants who cannot access the online system or who experience any difficulties should contact the passport advice line, tel. +443002220000.