British passport two-year rule and what you need to know

Need to know

Many people are unaware of this two year rule(Image: Hleb Usovich via Getty Images)

HM Passport Office has issued a reminder about the two-year rule that applies when someone needs to confirm a passport applicant’s identity.
The requirement applies when applying for a new passport for a child or adult, renewing a child’s passport, or replacing a lost, stolen or damaged document.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, HMPO clarified that “a referee must have known the person applying for at least 2 years and confirm their identity”.
Referees must be at least 18, live in the UK and hold a British or Irish passport. They must know the applicant as a friend, neighbour or colleague – not solely through a professional relationship – and work in, or be retired from, a “recognised profession”.
Some examples of a recognised profession include: accountant, councillor, teacher or lecturer, barrister, journalist, and dentist. An extensive list can be found here
You cannot verify someone’s identity if you’re related by birth or marriage; are in a relationship with them or share a home; you’re employed by HM Passport Office; you’re employed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) on British citizenship or right of abode applications; or if you’re a medical professional – unless you know the individual requesting this well (for instance, you’re a close friend).
For a child’s application, the two-year rule applies to the adult making the application.