Travel restrictions have been relaxed and we’re heading straight into peak travel season. This means that many people are applying for passports right now, so that they can book their much needed summer holiday abroad. But what if I don’t know anyone to countersign my passport?
If you don’t know anyone that can countersign your passport, you can submit a signed declaration that states that you are unable to find a countersignatory. However, it’s important to note that your application is likely to take longer if you choose to take this path.
What To Do If You Can’t Find Someone To Sign Your Passport
If you don’t know anyone who is willing or able to countersign your passport, there are a few other options available to you.
You can get a countersignature from a professional person such as a qualified solicitor, notary public, civil servant or member of the clergy. You can also ask someone who works in a bank, building society or Post Office, as long as they’re willing to countersign your passport and you know them well enough. If you’re a member of the armed forces, you can get a countersignature from an officer with the rank of colonel or above.
Finally, if you’re unable to find anyone who meets any of the above criteria, you can submit a signed declaration instead. This must state that you’re unable to find a countersignatory and that the information provided in your application is true to the best of your knowledge. If you submit a signed declaration, it’s important to note that your application may take longer to process.
Who Can Sign Passport Photos?
Almost anyone can sign your passport photo, as long as they’re willing to do so and they meet the following criteria:
– They must have known you (the applicant) for at least two years
– They must be able to identify you from the photo
– They must be over 18 years of age
– They must hold a current, valid passport themselves
– They must not be related to you by blood or marriage
– They must not be your civil partner or cohabiting partner
How Can I Renew My Passport If I Don’t Have A Countersignature?
If you’re renewing your passport and don’t have a countersignature, you can submit a signed declaration instead. This must state that you’re unable to find a countersignatory and that the information provided in your application is true to the best of your knowledge. If you submit a signed declaration, it’s important to note that your application may take longer to process.
Can A Friend Sign A Passport Photo?
Yes, a friend can sign your passport photo as long as they meet the following criteria:
– They must have known you (the applicant) for at least two years
– They must be able to identify you from the photo
– They must be over 18 years of age
– They must hold a current, valid passport themselves
– They must not be related to you by blood or marriage
– They must not be your civil partner or cohabiting partner
Can The Post Office Sign My Passport Photo?
No, the Post Office cannot sign your passport photo. This is because your countersignatory needs to have known you for at least two years.
Can Family Sign Passport?
No, a family member cannot sign your passport photo. This is because people who are related to you by blood or marriage cannot countersign your passport.
I Don’t Have A Passport And I Need To Travel urgently
If you don’t have a passport but need to travel urgently, you can apply for an emergency travel document. This is also known as an emergency passport or temporary passport. Emergency passports are only issued in exceptional circumstances and you’ll need to provide proof of your travel plans, as well as evidence of your identity and nationality.
If you’re a British citizen and need to apply for an emergency travel document, you can do so at most British embassies, consulates and high commissions. You’ll need to complete an application form and provide supporting documents, as well as a passport photo.
Once your application has been processed, you’ll be issued with an emergency travel document which will allow you to travel to your destination and return to the UK. It’s important to note that emergency travel documents are only valid for a single journey and you’ll need to apply for a full passport before you can travel again.
Do I Need Someone To Countersign My Passport?
Yes, you will need someone to countersign your passport if you’re applying for a first adult passport or renewing an existing passport. Your countersignatory needs to have known you for at least two years and they must be able to identify you from the photo. In addition, they must hold a current, valid passport themselves and must not be related to you by blood or marriage.
If you’re unable to find a countersignatory, you can submit a signed declaration instead. This must state that you’re unable to find a countersignatory and that the information provided in your application is true to the best of your knowledge. If you submit a signed declaration, it’s important to note that your application may take longer to process.
What Happens If My Passport Photo Doesn’t Meet The Requirements?
If your passport photo doesn’t meet the requirements, you’ll need to get a new one taken. You can do this by going to a passport photo booth or using a passport photo service. It’s important to make sure that your passport photo meets the requirements, as otherwise your application may be delayed or rejected.
I Need A Passport Photo But I Don’t Have A Passport
If you need a passport photo but don’t have a passport, you can get one taken at a passport photo booth or by using a passport photo service. It’s important to make sure that your passport photo meets the requirements, as otherwise your application may be delayed or rejected.
What Documents Do I Need To Renew Passport?
When renewing your passport, you’ll need to provide your current passport, as well as a new passport photo. You’ll also need to complete an application form and provide supporting documents, such as proof of identity and nationality. If you’re renewing your passport online, you’ll also need to provide a digital photo.
I Lost My Passport, What Should I Do?
If you’ve lost your passport or it’s been stolen, you’ll need to report this to the police and get a crime reference number. You’ll then need to apply for a replacement passport. When applying for a replacement passport, you’ll need to provide a new passport photo. You’ll also need to complete an application form and provide supporting documents, such as proof of identity and nationality.
My Passport Has Expired, Can I Still Use It?
No, you can’t use your expired passport. You’ll need to apply for a new passport before you can travel outside the UK.
Do You Need Birth Certificate For Passport Renewal UK?
No, you don’t need a birth certificate for passport renewal in the UK. However, you will need to provide your current passport, as well as a new passport photo. You’ll also need to complete an application form and provide supporting documents, such as proof of identity and nationality. If you’re renewing your passport online, you’ll also need to provide a digital photo.
How Long Does It Take To Renew British Passport?
It usually takes up to 10 weeks to renew a British passport. However, during peak times such as Spring, you may find that it takes longer for your application to be processed. For this reason, we’d advise applying for your new passport before booking a holiday abroad.
I’m Travelling Soon And Need A Passport Quickly, What Can I Do?
If you need your passport quickly, you can use the Fast Track or Premium service. With Fast Track, you should receive your new passport within a week, while with Premium you’ll be able to book an appointment at your local passport office to receive your passport on the same day. You’ll need to pay an additional fee for these services.
In Summary
Whether you’re applying for a first passport or renewing your existing passport, you’ll need to find someone to countersign your passport photo to state that you are who you say you are. This leaves many people asking the question ‘what happens if I don’t know anyone to countersign my passport?’.
If you don’t have anyone who can countersign your passport photo, you can submit a signed declaration instead. This must state that you’re unable to find a countersignatory and that the information provided in your application is true to the best of your knowledge. If you submit a signed declaration, it’s important to note that your application may take longer to process.