Second UK Passports
For frequent travelers, global business professionals, and those navigating politically sensitive regions, a second UK passport can be more than just a convenience—it can be a necessity. If your current passport is nearing expiration or you’re frequently applying for visas, having a second passport provides the freedom to travel while managing documentation seamlessly. CIBTvisas simplifies the process of getting a second passport, ensuring speed, compliance, and peace of mind.
What is a second passport?
A second passport is an additional British passport issued to the same individual. Unlike a renewal, this document functions as a valid, separate travel credential. It’s not the same as a duplicate passport, which refers to a replacement for a lost or stolen document. A second passport is typically valid for four years and is issued under specific circumstances, including:
- Frequent international travel requiring overlapping visa applications
- Travel between countries with conflicting entry/exit policies
- Emergency travel when the original passport is under visa processing
Eligibility to apply for a second passport generally requires documented need, often supported by a travel itinerary, business requirements, or diplomatic considerations.
Benefits of having a second passport
Increased travel flexibility
Holding a second passport allows you to apply for visas while continuing to travel. For example, if your primary passport is submitted for a visa application, your secondary passport enables uninterrupted travel elsewhere. This is especially valuable for business travelers and expatriates.
Enhanced security
A second passport offers an added layer of personal security. In situations of political instability or when traveling to regions where your entry stamp from another country could raise concerns, a second passport can help reduce risk and protect your privacy.
Business opportunities
Entrepreneurs and global executives benefit from greater access to markets and fewer delays. A second passport streamlines international mobility, supports tight travel schedules, and ensures readiness for last-minute engagements.
How to apply for a second passport with CIBTvisas
CIBTvisas provides a straightforward, expert-guided solution to apply for a second UK passport. From eligibility confirmation to document submission, we make every step clear and efficient.
Eligibility requirements
To apply for a second passport, you must:
- Be a British citizen and hold a UK passport that states 'British Citizen' as the primary nationality
- Demonstrate a legitimate business reason due to overlapping visa requirements in the form of a written request from your employer
Required documentation
CIBTvisas will outline exactly what you need. Typically, you will be asked to submit:
- Completed passport form
- Digital photo taken in the last 30 days
- Colour copies of all pages of your current passport
- Second passport request letter from your employer, including the applicant's full name and at least six countries that the applicant plans to visit that will require a visa
- Authorisation letter for CIBTvisas to submit on the applicant’s behalf.
- Both letters should be in original form with wet-ink signatures.
You will receive a CIBTvisas Application Kit with:
- A summary of the service
- A list of documents you must provide
- Detailed instructions to complete your application
- Authorisation letter template
- Second passport request latter template
Application process
- Start your order: Select your service speed and begin your request through our online portal.
- Download forms: Receive your Application Kit with instructions, requirements, and forms.
- Submit documents: Send completed forms and required documents to the address provided.
- Processing: Once submitted, your application is reviewed and processed. You’ll receive confirmation via email, including updates and next steps.
CIBTvisas helps minimize processing delays through accuracy checks and expert support at every stage.
FAQs for getting a secondary passport
Is it worth getting a second passport?
If you travel frequently, especially for business or to high-security destinations, a second passport can prevent costly delays and add flexibility.
Do you qualify for a second passport?
Eligibility is typically based on business travel with overlapping visa requirements.
How long does it take to get a second passport?
The Passport Office operates an appointment system for submissions. Appointment availability varies but is generally available in 2–5 business days. The new passport will be dispatched by the Passport Office to the residential address of the applicant in seven business days, as stated on the passport form.
To obtain a Second Passport you will need to:
- Select the speed of service and submit your request to update your passport above.
CIBTvisas will provide you with a list of documents needed for your passport order, processing fees for your requested service, and the next steps required to start your passport order with CIBTvisas.
- Start your order.
Select Start Order on the following page to complete CIBTvisas’s fast online passport order form.
- Download your forms and requirements.
CIBTvisas’s Application Kit provides you with a summary of the Lost or Stolen Passport Replacement service, important information, a list of the personal documents you need to provide, step-by-step instructions for completing your passport order, as well as the required application forms you need to fill out.
- Send your personal documents and completed forms to CIBTvisas.
Once you have completed all the steps outlined in your passport application kit, you need to submit the required personal documents to your CIBTvisas location listed in the CIBTvisas Application Kit. We will begin processing your passport order as soon as we receive it. CIBTvisas will email you a summary of your passport order and will contact you if additional information is required.