Indian Passport Renewal in the UK (2026): Documents, Photo, Fees & Step-by-Step

Renewing your Indian passport from the UK is straightforward once you know the steps. This 2026 guide covers who needs to renew, the documents, the correct photo size, the process, fees, and timelines — plus one important point if you've become a British citizen.

Indian passports are issued for a fixed validity, so most holders living in the UK will need to renew at some point — usually as the passport nears expiry, or when it's damaged or runs out of blank pages. The process is handled through the official Indian passport and visa service partner in the UK, and can be done largely online before you submit your documents.

At a Glance

  • Who: Indian citizens in the UK with an expiring, expired, damaged, or full passport
  • Where: via the official Indian passport & visa service partner in the UK
  • Photo: 35×45mm (British passport size), white background
  • Process: online application, then submit documents (post or in person)
  • Timeline: typically a few weeks after submission (varies by case)

When do you need to renew your Indian passport?

  • Your passport is due to expire — renew in good time before travel
  • Your passport has already expired
  • The passport is damaged or the details are no longer clearly readable
  • All visa pages are full
  • There's a change in your details (name, address, or appearance)
  • A child's passport needs re-issue (minors' passports have shorter validity)

Documents required

The exact list depends on your case, but for a standard adult renewal you'll generally need:

  • Your current Indian passport (original, plus copies of the relevant pages)
  • Proof of UK address (such as a recent utility bill or bank statement)
  • Proof of immigration status in the UK (such as your visa or residence document)
  • Recent passport-size photographs to specification
  • The completed online application form
  • Any supporting documents for a change of name, address, or other details
Tip: requirements can vary by case and are updated from time to time. We share a tailored checklist for your exact situation so nothing is missed.

Photo specification

For an Indian passport, the standard photo is 35×45mm (the same size used for a British passport), with a plain white or light background, a clear front-facing expression, and no head covering except for religious reasons. A common cause of delays is an incorrect photo, so it's worth getting this right.

Step-by-step process

1

Complete the online application

The application is filled in online with your personal and passport details. Accuracy matters — everything should match your existing documents.

2

Prepare your documents and photo

Gather the required documents and a photo to specification. We check everything against the current requirements before submission.

3

Submit your application

Submit by post or in person, depending on the route. Biometrics or in-person attendance may be needed in some cases.

4

Processing and return

Your application is processed and the new passport is printed and returned to you, generally within a few weeks (timelines vary by workload and case type).

Fees and timelines

The cost is made up of the government passport fee plus the service partner's charge, and these are set by the authorities and updated from time to time. Timelines also vary depending on case type and current workload. Because these change, we confirm the current fees and a realistic timeline for your specific case before you proceed — just ask.

Common mistakes that cause delays

  • An incorrect photo (wrong size, background, or expression)
  • An incomplete or inconsistent application form
  • Address proof that doesn't match the application
  • Missing supporting documents for a name or detail change
  • Leaving renewal too close to travel dates
Important — have you become a British citizen? India does not allow dual citizenship. If you've naturalised as a British citizen, you can no longer hold or renew an Indian passport. Instead, you surrender your Indian passport and apply for an OCI to keep visa-free access to India. See our surrender of Indian passport guidance.

Frequently asked questions

What photo size is needed for an Indian passport?
A 35×45mm photo with a plain white or light background and a clear front-facing expression. This is the same size as a British passport photo.
Can I renew my Indian passport by post from the UK?
In many cases, yes — the application is completed online and documents can be submitted by post, though some cases need in-person attendance or biometrics. We confirm the right route for your case.
How long does Indian passport renewal take?
Typically a few weeks after submission, though it varies by case type and current workload. Renew in good time before any travel.
My passport has expired — can I still renew it?
Yes, an expired Indian passport can be renewed. Bring your old passport and the required documents; we'll guide you through it.
I've become a British citizen — can I renew my Indian passport?
No. India doesn't allow dual citizenship, so once you're a British citizen you can't renew an Indian passport. You surrender it and apply for an OCI instead. We handle both.
Do I need to send original documents?
Your original current passport is needed for a renewal. We'll send you an exact checklist of originals and copies for your case before you submit.

Renew your Indian passport — without the guesswork.

Matrix Solutions prepares your Indian passport renewal from the UK — checklist, form, photo guidance, and submission — clearly, correctly, and with your documents protected.

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This article is general guidance and is not legal advice. Document requirements, fees, and timelines are set by the relevant authorities and can change — confirm the current details for your case before applying.