Brits planning a trip abroad are being advised to examine their passports thoroughly at least three weeks prior to their departure. Failing to spot some crucial problems could result in a fee of £222.

Holidaymakers need to ensure their passports are both in date and not damaged in anyway before flying. Both these issues could see you turned away for your flight.

To remedy this, your passport will need to be replaced as soon as possible. However, leaving it too late could be costly.

This is because a typical passport replacement takes three weeks. For this service you can expect to pay £94.50.

However, if you have not noticed an issue with your passport just days before your departure, you will need to shell out £222 for the one-day premium service.

GOV.UK warns: “If your passport is damaged you must replace it,” stating further, “You may not be able to travel with it.”

HM Passport Office will classify a passport as damaged if:

• You cannot read any of your details
• Any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
• There are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
• The cover is coming away
• There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)

In terms of the expiry date of your passport, this will vary depending on where you are travelling to. Some countries require you to have at least six months left on your passport when visiting, while others ask for three.

For a comprehensive list of different passport requirements by country, visit the Government website here.

Applying for a passport online

To apply online, visit the Government website here. Essential requirements include a digital photograph, a valid payment method (credit or debit card), and your existing passport if you’re applying for a renewal.

Moreover, applicants must provide evidence of their identity and citizenship. The application fee for adults is £94.50, while children’s passports cost £61.50.

For those needing help with the online application, local Post Office branches offer support services. Their staff can:

• Take your digital photo
• Help with completing the online application

Please be aware that this service comes with an additional fee.

Postal applications

Paper passport applications can be collected from your local Post Office for postal submissions. Bear in mind that postal applications typically take longer than online ones.

They also come with a higher price tag than online applications, costing £107. You’ll need to send a filled-out application form along with your supporting documents, two photographs, and the required fee.

Post Office staff can assist in ensuring your form is correctly completed – however, you will need to provide your own photos. Please note that this service will incur an additional charge.

Payment can be made using cash, debit or credit cards.

Fast-track applications

If the standard three-week processing timeframe cuts things too fine for your travel arrangements, there are several accelerated alternatives for obtaining a passport. The Government website explains: “You can pay to get a passport urgently if you think the standard service will take too long.”

To access these expedited services, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at a passport office:

• The same-day premium service carries a charge of £222 (or £235 for the 54-page frequent traveller passport)
• Alternatively, the one-week express service is priced at £178 for an adult passport (or £191 for the 54-page frequent traveller passport), and £145 for a child’s passport (or £158 for the 54-page version)

For additional details, it’s recommended to visit the Government website here.