In order to be eligible to receive a passport in England, applicants must either be a British citizen, a citizen of a British overseas territory or be under the protection of the British government. In order to be considered under protection of the British government, the applicant must deemed eligible to live and work throughout the United Kingdom without restriction. Children born to British mothers are automatically considered citizens and eligible for passports. Fathers who are British citizens as of July 2006 may also pass on their British citizenship to children born after that date as long as they were married to the mother either prior to or after the date of birth. This makes the child born of the marriage eligible for British citizenship and passport issuance, regardless of place of birth.
English citizens who wish to obtain a passport must submit the necessary documentation in order for their passport to be issued. Failure to supply the required documents may result in the delay or denial of passport issuance. Documents required include: the completion of a formal application for passport, countersigned by someone 18 or older with a current British or Irish passport who has known the applicant for a period of at least two years; photographic proof of identity, such as a driver's license or official government issued ID; and proof of age, such as a birth certificate. Further documents may be required depending on year and place of birth. The applicant must also pay the cost for passport issuance, which as of September 2010 averaged £77.50.
Standard passports issued in England and throughout the UK are valid for up to 10 years. At the end of that 10-year period, British law dictates the passports are no longer of use and must be replaced in order to travel abroad. English passports may also be renewed if they were issued to a child under the age of 16 and the child is now an adult. In addition, any English citizen or citizen of the UK who legally changes their name as a result of marriage or any other cause must obtain a replacement passport or they may be denied access to travel. Valid passports may be renewed up to 9 months prior to expiration.
