This site uses technical (necessary) and analytics cookies.
By continuing to browse, you agree to the use of cookies.

FAQ Passport

  1. How long before the expiration of my passport may I request a new passport to be issued?

There is no legally prescribed timeframe for renewing a passport. However, due to the high volume of passport applications received by this Consulate General, we suggest booking an appointment approximately six months before its expiration, except in cases of deterioration or exhaustion of pages.

  1. I have moved to the UK and my passport shows my previous residence. How can I request to update my residence on my passport?

It is not necessary. We will update the passport when we will issue a new one.

  1. Parents’ names are not shown on the passports of my children, who are both under the age of 14. How can I request the insertion?

From November 25th, 2009 all passports issued to children under the age of 14 must include the names of both parents. If such information is missing, it may be requested at the Consulate without an appointment during regular public opening hours.
Either parent may attend, bringing both their own original passports and the child’s passport. The child does not need to be present.

  1. I urgently need a passport but there are no appointments available before my departure. How can I renew my passport in this case?

In urgent and justified cases, Italian citizens residing within the jurisdiction of the London Consular district may request an emergency passport (click here).

In all other cases, ee kindly invite you to consult the attached link for information on the current appointment booking procedures. How to book an appointment for a passport – Consolato Generale d’Italia Londra

If you are unable to find a suitable slot at our offices, you may opt to book an appointment through our authorised “Patronati” (italian advice centres) or Consular Agencies within our jurisdiction, as outlined in the provided link.

Furthermore, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the availability of our priority channels for the following categories:

  1. I am not able to obtain the consent of the other parent (we are not married/I don’t know how to reach them/we are not in touch/ we are separated/divorced). How can I apply for a Consular decree?

If the other parent refuses to sign the consent, the applicant parent may submit a formal request to the Consul General seeking a consular order and stating the reasons why it is needed. The Consul General acts as a Judge for minors residing in this consular district.

    • The process includes individual interviews with each parent, and a subsequent hearing in person at the Consulate which must be attended by both parents and the child/children in accordance with the age and maturity of the child.
    • The formal request is subject to a consular fee (art. 31).
    • Please note that processing time may vary due to individual circumstances and cannot be estimated in advance. The time and outcome of the application depends on the completion of the necessary steps required by Italian legislation and the collaboration of the other parent.

The prospective applicant is advised to contact in advance the Welfare Department by email: sociale.londra@esteri.it .

  1. I am a tourist without a valid passport/ID card (due to loss, theft or confiscation) and I urgently need to go back to Italy. What should I do?

The Consulate General can issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) to all Italian nationals without a valid ID card or passport. The ETD will be valid for 5 days from the date of issue and can only be used to travel back to Italy or the country of residence if registered with AIRE. To obtain an ETD you may present yourself at the Consulate without an appointment, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 12pm or from 3pm to 4pm. Alternatively, in urgent cases, you may request an appointment on Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 1pm by calling the emergency number. For further information, please click here. 

  1. My passport has been seized due to being reported stolen. How can I get it back?

You should first check on the Italian Police website whether a report on your document is still pending. As a matter of fact, passports lost/stolen and later recovered by the local authorities are forwarded to the Consulate after several weeks. Once received, the Consulate will inform the holder of the recovery and provide instructions regarding their returns.
It is important to note that the lost/stolen report of the passport cannot be withdrawn. Should the document be found, it will be no longer valid for use.

  1. I am not in possession of a passport as I have submitted to the local authorities (Home office/DVLA). What can I do?

Unfortunately, in order to have your passport renewed, your old one will need to be provided along with the application form, so it can be cancelled. You may alternatively apply for an ID card or an ETD (Emergency Travel Document).

  1. Passport photographs (ICAO standards)

Passport photographs must recent (taken within the last 6 months), in color, size 35x40mm, with light and uniform background, face clearly visible and without glasses or head coverings (except for religious reasons). Photos must also comply with ICAO standards (please see photograph guidelines).

  1. I am registered with AIRE. Can I renew my passport in Italy?

Yes you can. Italian citizens residing abroad may request the issuance or renewal of their passport at any competent office in Italy (Questura or Police Headquarters). In such cases, the issuing office must obtain authorization from the Consulate responsible for the applicant’s place of residence. This authorization is normally provided within a week.

  1. Which Italian documents are accepted for entry in the United Kingdom?

Please refer to the website www.viaggiaresicuri.it for all relevant details.