Posted on Wednesday, 30 July 2014

As we've discussed before in this blog, the British passport is one of the world's very finest travel documents: only Sweden and Finland can access as many countries (173 in total) without a pre-arranged visa.

But thousands of Britons are finding it very difficult indeed to get their hands on a new passport, as huge application backlogs remain. The matter has been made worse by a staff walkout on 28th of July. They took action because of serious staff shortages, which they say are partly responsible for the delays.

HM Passport Office also says they are facing the highest demand for new passports in 12 years.

Last month hundreds of additional staff were drafted in to help clear the backlog, but the problem is yet to be fully resolved.

Whatever the underlying reasons for this backlog, one thing is clear: many holidaymakers are in a race against time to get their passport ahead of forthcoming getaways. The recent break-up of thousands of schools will mean there are some very worried families across the UK right now asking one question: will we be going on holiday this year?

The financial cost of a holiday that one cannot even enjoy will no doubt make the situation doubly hard to deal with.

What can I do to get my passport more quickly?

First of all, book an appointment on 0300 222 0000, then choose one of the following two options:

1. Premium service – £128 (regular 32 page passport)

This is the most expensive option – but also the fastest. Your passport will be ready four hours after your application is received. You must collect the passport in person at one of the nation's passport offices: London, Liverpool, Newport, Belfast, Durham, Peterborough or Glasgow.

2. Fast Track service – £111 (regular 32 page passport)

Fast track is a little cheaper but your passport is delivered by post to your home address within one week of application acceptance.

Passport Adviceline

Telephone: 0300 222 0000

Textphone: 18001 0300 222 0222

Monday to Friday, 7am to 10pm

Weekends and public holidays, 8am to 6pm

Can I claim on my insurance if I cannot go on holiday due to a delayed passport?

Unfortunately, travel cover providers will not pay out claims on delayed passports because only the actual dates of travel are covered. However, most travel insurance policies do cover the loss or theft of a passport on the actual trip (including starttravel.co.uk).

Is your passport delayed?

We would like to hear your story. Use the comments section below or send us a message.

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