Cost of British passport to rise this month

Under Government proposals it will cost more to apply by post than online for the first time.

Currently, a standard first adult passport or renewal costs £72.50 regardless of how the application is made.

Under changes earmarked to take effect on March 27, the fee will rise to £75.50 for online applications and £85 for postal applications.

Charges for children’s passports will go up from £46 currently to £49 online and £58.50 in the post.

The £12.50 increase for the postal service represents a jump of 17% and 27% for adults and children respectively.

The plans, which will have to be approved by parliament before taking effect, are part of a drive to increase the use of online services.