INTERVIEWS FOR FIRST TIME PASSPORT APPLICANT

News Posted on 18/07/07 By British High Commission.

From May 2007 the UK Identity and Passport Service gradually introduced compulsory interviews for all first time applicants in the UK. This significant change is designed to help stop fraudulent passport applications by improving the integrity and security of British passports. The key benefits of the changes will be to:
• Help fight passport fraud and forgery
• Help protect the UK public from identity theft
• Ensure the British passport stays one of the most secure and respected in the world

The British High Commission will begin a gradual introduction of a similar requirement from 1 August 2007, and may require the attendance of Adult First Time Applicants for an interview. From April 2008 it will become compulsory for anyone aged 16 or over applying overseas for a passport for the first time to have an interview as part of the application process. The interview is a vital role with in the passport application, ensuring that applicants are the rightful owners of that identity

As at present, any other passport applicant may also be required to attend interviews at the discretion of the British High Commission on a case by case basis.