How to Apply for a British Passport From Switzerland

Welcome to our comprehensive guide tailored for Swiss citizens and residents of Switzerland on applying for your first British passport from Switzerland. Obtaining your British passport will confirm your status as a United Kingdom citizen and grant you a range of associated benefits. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the British passport application process, from determining eligibility to gathering required documents, confirming your identity, and understanding processing times and fees. With this guide, you'll have all the information necessary to navigate the British passport application process confidently.

Who Can Apply for a First British Passport From Switzerland?

You can apply for your first British passport from Switzerland if you:

• Have never held a British passport before; or

• Were previously included as a child on someone else’s passport; or

• Are renewing a handwritten passport; or

• Have become a British national by naturalisation or registration.

Ways to Apply for a British Passport From Switzerland

There are multiple ways to apply for a British passport from Switzerland. You can apply online or use a paper application form known as the OS application form. In some instances, you may be required to apply in person.

Documents Required When Applying for a British Passport From Switzerland

The documentation you will need varies based on your individual circumstances. Our immigration lawyers can advise you on the specific documents you may require. Below is a summary of the general documents that may be needed, but it’s always wise to seek expert advice.

• Born before 01/01/83: Your birth/adoption certificate (if applicable).

• Born on or after 01/01/83: Your full birth or adoption certificate showing your parent’s details (the short version issued for free by the registrar is not acceptable) (if applicable).

• If you have naturalised or registered as a British citizen: Your certificate of naturalisation or registration, the passport used to enter the UK, and any foreign passport you hold or are included on.

• Recent photographs: Two identical photographs meeting the UK’s photo guidelines.

• Other passports: A full-color copy of any uncancelled passports related to you.

• Change of name documents (if applicable): Provide three documents as evidence of your current name dated within the last year, and additional documentation for any name changes.

• Identity documents: You must provide a minimum of three documents as evidence of your name, address, and/or residency.

If you’re applying from Switzerland but were born elsewhere, you’ll need to provide:

• The passport or travel document used to enter Switzerland.

• An explanation for not applying from your country of birth.

Confirming Your Identity

A countersignatory, who must live in the UK and hold a current British or Irish passport, is required to confirm your identity. They should have known you personally for at least two years and meet the professional criteria outlined by HM Passport Office.

Identity Interviews

The HM Passport Office may require an identity interview. This could be conducted in Switzerland via video link. You’ll be notified by email or letter with instructions on how to arrange the interview, what to expect, and any documents you need to bring.

British Passport Application Fees From Switzerland

As of the time of writing, the fees for a British passport application submitted from Switzerland are as follows:

• Online applications:

  
  

  • £101.00 for an Adult (16 and over) standard passport;

  • £113.00 for an Adult or veteran Frequent Traveller Passport;

  • £65.50 for a Child (under 16) standard passport;

  • £77.50 for a Child Frequent Traveller Passport.

    
    

• Postal applications:

  
  

  • £112.50 for an Adult (16 and over) standard passport application;

  • £124.50 for an Adult or veteran Frequent Traveller Passport;

  • £77.00 for a Child (under 16) standard passport;

  • £89.00 for a Child Frequent Traveller Passport.

Payment must be made in pounds sterling, and additional courier fees will apply for returning your passport and supporting documents.

Processing Times for a British Passport Application From Switzerland

Processing times vary, generally taking between 4 to 24 weeks from the date HM Passport Office receives your documents. If additional information or an identity interview is required, the process may take longer.

Contact Our UK Immigration Lawyers in Switzerland

For expert advice regarding British nationality or assistance with your British passport application from Switzerland, contact our immigration lawyers on +41 21 588 07 70 or get in touch via our contact form.