Introduction
If you’ve submitted your passport to the UK Home Office as part of a visa or immigration application, there may be times when you need it returned — for example, for urgent travel, identification, or personal reasons.
Fortunately, the Home Office provides a structured process to request your passport back before your application is fully processed.
This guide explains when and how to make your request, provides key contact information, and helps you understand the possible effects on your immigration application.
1. When Can You Request Your Passport Back?
You can request the return of your passport from the UK Home Office if:
- You need to travel urgently, either for business, family, or personal reasons.
- You require your passport for medical, legal, or identification purposes.
⚠️ Important:
Requesting your passport back may sometimes result in your application being withdrawn, particularly if you intend to travel outside the UK. However, if you’re not leaving the country and your reason is valid, the Home Office may allow your application to continue.
2. Contacting the Home Office for Passport Return
The UK Home Office offers three main ways to request the return of your passport: by phone, email, or online form.
2.1 Contact Number for Passport Return
You can call the Home Office directly to request your passport:
📞 Within the UK: 0300 123 2241
🌍 Outside the UK: +44 203 875 4669
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
When you call, have the following details ready:
- Your full name and date of birth.
- Your application reference number (found on your application receipt or email).
- The reason you need your passport urgently.
2.2 Email for Passport Return Requests
If you prefer to email, send your request to the official Home Office email address:
✉️ Email: CITTO@homeoffice.gov.uk
Include the following in your email:
- Full Name (as on your application)
- Date of Birth
- Application Reference Number
- Passport Number
- Reason for Request (e.g., urgent travel, medical appointment)
- Travel Dates (if applicable)
📝 Keep your email concise and clear. Attach any relevant proof (such as travel itineraries or appointment letters) if available.
2.3 Online Request Form
The Home Office also provides an official Return of Documents Request Form, which is the fastest and most efficient way to make your request.
🌐 Online Form: Return of Documents Request Form – GOV.UK
When completing the form, you’ll need to provide:
- Case ID or Application Reference Number
- Passport Details
- Contact Information
- Reason for Request
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email. The Home Office typically processes online requests within 10 working days.
3. What to Include in Your Request
To ensure your request is handled smoothly, provide the following details clearly:
| Information Required | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | As shown on your visa or immigration application |
| Date of Birth | For identity verification |
| Application Reference Number | Found in your Home Office correspondence or acknowledgment email |
| Passport Number | Helps identify your document quickly |
| Reason for Request | Explain briefly (e.g., “urgent international travel”, “medical appointment”) |
| Travel Dates | Include both departure and return dates if applicable |
| Supporting Documents | Attach relevant evidence if available (flight bookings, appointment letters, etc.) |
4. How Long Does It Take to Get Your Passport Back?
Processing times can vary, but generally:
- Standard requests: Around 10 working days from submission.
- Urgent requests: May be prioritised if you provide valid proof of urgency.
If you need your passport sooner, it’s advisable to:
- Call the Home Office after submitting your online or email request.
- Explain the urgency clearly and provide supporting documentation.
📅 Keep in mind: Delays can occur during peak immigration processing periods or holidays.
5. Will Requesting Your Passport Affect Your Application?
Requesting your passport back can affect your ongoing application, depending on your situation.
If You Are Staying in the UK
If your request is for domestic purposes (such as identification or legal matters), the Home Office may allow your application to continue without withdrawal.
If You Plan to Travel Abroad
If you intend to leave the UK, your application may be considered withdrawn once your passport is returned.
You might need to reapply or resubmit supporting documents upon your return.
Always confirm with the Home Office before traveling to avoid accidentally invalidating your visa or immigration application.
6. Helpful Tips for a Smooth Passport Return
- Double-check your application number before submitting your request.
- Explain urgency clearly — vague requests may not be prioritised.
- Keep records of your emails, confirmation pages, and call logs.
- Do not book non-refundable travel until you have your passport back.
- Follow up if you haven’t received a response within 10 working days.
💡 Tip: If you applied via a visa service centre or immigration solicitor, they may be able to request your passport on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How can I check if my passport return request was received?
You’ll receive an email confirmation if you used the online form. If you emailed or called, note the date and request number for reference when following up.
Q2: Can someone else collect my passport for me?
In most cases, the Home Office will return your passport by post or courier. If in-person collection is allowed, you must provide written authorisation and ID for the person collecting.
Q3: What if my passport is lost or delayed?
If your passport hasn’t arrived within 20 working days, contact the Home Office again using the same method and provide your case details for tracking.
Q4: Can I request my passport back if my application is under judicial review or appeal?
Yes, but it may delay your case or affect ongoing proceedings. Always check with your solicitor before requesting it.
Q5: Will the Home Office inform me if my application is withdrawn?
Yes. If your application is considered withdrawn, you’ll receive written confirmation explaining the next steps.
Conclusion
Requesting your passport back from the UK Home Office is straightforward if you follow the correct steps and provide the required details. Whether you choose to contact them by phone, email, or online form, ensure your request is clear, complete, and includes your application reference number.
Keep in mind that retrieving your passport may impact your immigration application — especially if you plan to travel abroad. Always confirm the implications before proceeding.
By staying organised and communicating promptly with the Home Office, you can ensure a smooth and timely return of your passport when you need it most.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.