UK Passport Fees 2023: How much will they increase by?

The Home Office has announced this week that it is has put forward proposals to increase the cost of passport renewals and applications for the first time in 5 years. The change will come in on February 2^nd so the advice is to apply sooner rather than later if you had imminent plans to do so to avoid the extra costs.

The goal of this is for service to rely less on tax funding and move towards it being financed by those who use it. It is reported that the Government makes zero profit from the service. The additional revenue will contribute towards processing the applications, consular support overseas, including lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders.

The new fees will include new UK passport applications and also UK passport renewals.

How much are UK passport applications and renewals set to increase by?

Online Applications

·       Standard fee for adult online applications will rise from £75.50 to £82.50

·       Children’s online applications will increase from £49 to £53.50

Postal Applications

·       Standard fee for an adult postal application sees an upsurge from £85 to £93

·       A child’s postal application fee will see the price rise from £58.50 to £64

According to Gov.uk, it is advised that all priority fees are being aligned so that customers will pay the same as previously stated.

Last year saw many passengers left frustrated by long delays and lack of access to emergency appointments compared with pre-covid. The turnaround time for applications prior to Covid, on average, was around 3 weeks but the guidance now indicates that those needing a passport should allow at least 10 weeks to receive their new document. The Government reported that 95% of passport applications met this target in 2022.

For more information on these changes or to apply for your passport/renew your passport visit Gov.uk where you will be able to complete the process.

© Currency Online Group

13^th January 2023

BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

As we see the temperature drop this week, we know that the winter months are only around the corner! Here we look at some potential destinations to escape to where the winter coats and jumpers are not needed!

Best short haul option – THE CANARY ISLANDS

With 7 different islands to choose from, this sun-drenched destination makes it the perfect place to take a winter holiday. Its sub-tropical climate means you are set to enjoy temperatures on average of above 20°c even in the months of December, January and February.

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers something for all the family. It’s ever popular waterparks and numerous beaches combined makes it a winning formula for the perfect winter family holiday.

Recommended areas to stay include Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos and Los Gigantes.

Gran Canaria is the second most popular of the islands and is home to the famous sand dunes of Maspalomas.

Head to the south of the island for an even warmer climate and array of hotels and resorts to pick from.

Fancy staying somewhere a bit different? – why not try the luxury 5-star Lopesan Baobab Resort in Meloneras. This safari themed hotel will be an instant hit with those travelling with children.

Famed for its volcanic backdrop, Lanzarote has always been a popular holiday destination for couples and families alike.

Costa Teguise is a more peaceful option to the main resort of Puerto Del Carmen.

The more upmarket option for families is Playa Blanca, on the Southern tip of the island. Here you can visit the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura, less than an hour away by ferry.

Order your Euros HERE for your winter sun break to The Canary Islands

Best Luxury Option – DUBAI

If glitz and glam teamed with plenty of sunshine is what you’re after, then Dubai is your perfect winter destination.

With its skyscrapers, malls and sprawling beaches, Dubai offers something for everyone.

Take a camel ride along Jumeriah beach to take in the spectacular views of the city.

Travelling with the kids and staying on the Palm, Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park is a must during your visit. Alternatively, Wild Wadi Water Park offers the same level of fun!

Fan of brunches? Dubai offers a whole host of themed brunches including those where you can take the children. Bread Street Kitchen, Atlantis The Palm offers a family brunch with food courtesy of Gordan Ramsey. The brunch offers a menu of children’s favourites and activities including cookie decorating, play doh making and face painting meaning the adults can kick back and relax while the kids are kept busy!

Dubai is home to the World’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Standing at 828m high, here you can experience the ultimate viewing experience on level 124. While on level 122 you can enjoy a dinner at Atmosphere, the World’s tallest restaurant.

You will not be short of amazing hotels to stay at in Dubai. With so many on offer you’re sure to find a deal that will not break the bank. However, food, drink and shopping can soon add up in this sleek city, so be warned!

Hotel recommendations:

With both the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Atlantis, The Palm offering complimentary access to both the attached waterparks to these hotels, these are the recommended hotels to stay at if you are travelling as a family. Both also offer children’s clubs and plenty of family activities during your stay.

Order your UAE Dirhams HERE for your winter escape to Dubai.

Best affordable long-haul option – MEXICO

If you don’t mind travelling a few more hours in the air, then Mexico is well recommended for that winter getaway.

Sun-soaked beaches teamed with fun fiestas and vibrant nightlife, this location is sure to provide you with that dream holiday you’ll never forget.

The average temperature all year round sits at low to mid 20’s making it the perfect place to feel some sun on your back!

Cancun, popular with young couples offers plenty of all-inclusive hotels to enjoy and if you want to venture out of your hotel head down to all the nightlife Cancun provides! A visit to the world-famous Coco Bongos is a must if you have an appetite for a fun filled night out

Riviera Maya, set south of Cancun is fast becoming the place to visit in Mexico for that relaxing winter break. Spread throughout the Yucatan coast, Riviera Maya encompasses the most the most important historical and archaeological sites of the ancient Mayas. It is also seen as one of the best destinations to head to for snorkelling and diving.

Hotel recommendations:

Grand Riviera Princess hotel is designed for families and kids alike. The family club here provides daily entertainment for the children, allowing the adults to relax. This hotel is, one to consider for your winter family trip.

If it's an adult only luxury trip you are in search of, the Platinum Yucatan Princess hotel is proving a popular all-inclusive hotel to book.

Order your Mexican Peso HERE for your long-haul winter getaway.

© Currency Online Group

29th September 2022