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Note your barcode number before sending your application to IPS

You will need to quote the barcode number from the application form or your receipt if you make enquiries about the progress of your application. Make sure you keep the number somewhere safe and do not show it to anyone unless you want them to make enquiries on your behalf.

Applying by post

If you are going to post your application, make sure you note down your application barcode number. This is the ten-digit number at the top of the front page of the application form. You can use the box on the front page of the application guidance leaflet to note down the number.

Applying in person or using the Check & Send service

If you use Check & Send or apply in person at a Regional Passport Office, you will be given a receipt for your application form. The receipt will have a different barcode number on it. Make sure you keep this receipt somewhere safe.

Asking about your passport application or tracking its progress

You can find out about the progress of your passport application by filling in the online application tracker. IPS will reply as quickly as possible. You can also call the Passport Adviceline on 0300 222 0000. You will need to quote your application barcode number or the number on your receipt from the Post Office or Regional Passport Office.

Unless your travel plans change, please wait two weeks from the date you sent your application before contacting IPS to check its progress.

Please note: travel must not be booked until you have received your passport. Progress updates from the online tracker are not a guarantee of when you will receive your passport.

Useful contacts

• Foreign Office Travel Advice

• Identity and Passport Service (IPS)