When is the UK Passport Office strike — and could it affect your passport application?
Quick summary
A five-week strike of more than 1,000 workers at HM Passport Office locations in the United Kingdom started Monday and could affect thousands of British passport applications. Some affected locations include those in London; Glasgow, Scotland; and Durham, England.
The strike comes in response to a lengthy dispute over pay, pensions and job security with the government.
"This escalation of our action has come about because, in sharp contrast with other parts of the public sector, ministers have failed to hold any meaningful talks with us, despite two massive strikes and sustained, targeted action lasting six months," Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services Union representing the workers, said of the decision to strike last month.
"Their approach is further evidence they're treating their workforce worse than anyone else," Serwotka added. "They've had six months to resolve this dispute but for six months have refused to improve their 2% imposed pay rise, and failed to address our members' other issues of concern. They seem to think if they ignore our members, they'll go away."
The Home Office — which the Passport Office is part of — countered in a statement: "We are disappointed with the union's decision to strike after engaging in constructive talks to find a resolution."
Here's what you need to know about the strike and how it could affect your passport application or renewal.
When is the Passport Office strike?
Passport Office staff members across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are due to walk out between April 3 and May 5, according to the Public and Commercial Services Union representing the workers.
These dates are correct at the time of writing, but it's always wise to keep an eye on the union's official website for any future developments in the dispute.
Previously, civil servants walked out during two one-day strikes Feb. 1 and March 15, according to Civil Service World.
Will the Passport Office strike affect my passport application?
In a news bulletin, the union wrote that the planned strike action "is likely to have a significant impact on the delivery of passports as the summer approaches."
Meanwhile, the Home Office added that it was "working to manage the impact of strike action whilst ensuring we can continue to deliver vital services to the public, with comprehensive contingency plans in place."
People are advised to allow up to 10 weeks for their new passport to arrive, and these guidelines have not been changed to reflect the strike.
"You should allow up to 10 weeks from when we receive your old passport, any supporting documents, or confirmation of your identity details if needed," according to the U.K. government website.
An investigation by the National Audit Office last year found that as of September 2022, the average processing time for U.K. passport was "12 days for straightforward applications from within the U.K. and 29 days for non‑straightforward applications."
It isn't clear exactly how the strikes will affect times as yet. However, the Business Travel Association said in a statement that around 1 million passport applications are due to be processed during the five-week strike period.
In a statement on Twitter, the organization's CEO, Clive Wratten, predicted the strike "will have devastating consequences for business travel."
"With over one million applications due to be processed over the strike period we strongly urge the Government to come to an agreement with the PCS as soon as possible, to avoid another summer of discontent," Wratten added.
What if you need a passport sooner?
If you can't wait, you might still have some options, provided you're willing to pay extra.
If you manage to book a slot, the one-week Fast Track application services aim to deliver your new passport within a week of attending an in-person appointment. It costs 155 British pounds (about $192) for an adult passport and 126 pounds ($156) for a child passport.
Alternatively, the Online Premium service can be used for same-day adult passport renewal. You'll receive your new document at the appointment for 194 pounds ($240).
Beyond this, if you require a U.K. passport to travel due to bereavement or medical treatment, you can also apply on compassionate grounds for a fast-tracked passport.
To find passport requirements for other countries, visit the Foreign Office's travel advice page for your chosen destination.