London Luton Airport has issued a reminder to passengers traveling with teenagers ahead of the summer travel period, specifically regarding a rule concerning the number 16. The airport shared the advisory on X (formerly Twitter), urging travelers to ensure they are properly prepared to avoid any disruptions.
What Is the Rule?
The airport wrote: "Travelling with a teenager about to turn 16? If their passport needs renewing, apply for an adult passport to make sure they can travel." This advice applies to all UK passengers, not just those flying through Luton. According to GOV.UK, once a person turns 16 or is approaching that age, they must apply for an adult passport.
Who Needs an Adult Passport?
You can apply for a first adult passport if you meet all of the following conditions:
- You are a British national
- You are aged 16 or over (or will be in 3 weeks)
- You have never had a UK passport before
Additionally, you must apply if your last UK passport was issued before January 1, 1994. However, you can still use your child passport until it expires, even if you are over 18.
Passport Fees and Validity
In the UK, applying for a passport online costs £102, while using a paper form costs £115.50. These prices are for a standard 34-page passport; larger booklets cost more. An adult passport is valid for 10 years. Notably, the government introduced new fees for passport applications on April 8, 2026.
How to Apply for a New Passport
To apply online, you will need:
- A digital photo (or a device that takes digital photos and someone to take your photo)
- Someone who can confirm your identity
- Supporting documents
- A credit or debit card
The online application fee is £102.
To apply with a paper form, you will need:
- A filled-in application form
- 2 identical printed passport photos
- Someone who can confirm your identity (a 'countersignatory')
- Supporting documents
The paper application fee is £115.50.
Your new passport will be sent to you by courier or recorded delivery, and your supporting documents will be returned separately. The exact return method depends on the delivery option you choose during your application.
