Struggling to find a countersignatory for a UK passport renewal
Apr 21st 2026 | 6:12 am
#16
Thread Starter
Just Joined
Joined: Apr 2026
Posts: 9
Re: Struggling to find a countersignatory for a UK passport renewal
The whole online process is much easier, as often the checks are done digitally so no need for the counter signature at all (no matter who takes it - I always just do my families on a phone!). But I assume the OP is doing a paper application or it’s insisting on a counter signature.
juliody - just had a thought, if you run your own business I’m guessing you have an accountant? You could ask him/her?
juliody - just had a thought, if you run your own business I’m guessing you have an accountant? You could ask him/her?
I know him professionally, just as an accountant.
I can assume that a very large percentage simply doesn’t follow this rule and cheat.
Apr 21st 2026 | 7:48 am
#17
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Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 361
Re: Struggling to find a countersignatory for a UK passport renewal
As mentioned, all the OP needs is a government compliant passport photographer who uses a code for online upload. The Post Office also operates a 'check and send'. No need for any signature. The first link provides an example of the type of service. This must be done in the UK though.
https://www.lordsphotography.co.uk/passport-photos/
https://www.gov.uk/how-the-post-offi...20paper%20form
https://www.lordsphotography.co.uk/passport-photos/
https://www.gov.uk/how-the-post-offi...20paper%20form
Last edited by Johnboyuk; Apr 21st 2026 at 7:58 am.
Apr 21st 2026 | 9:43 am
#18
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 18,799
From: Not in Paris
Re: Struggling to find a countersignatory for a UK passport renewal
Has a countersignatory been requested by HMPO or are you just assuming you will require one?
Apr 22nd 2026 | 4:17 am
#19
Thread Starter
Just Joined
Joined: Apr 2026
Posts: 9
Re: Struggling to find a countersignatory for a UK passport renewal
As mentioned, all the OP needs is a government compliant passport photographer who uses a code for online upload. The Post Office also operates a 'check and send'. No need for any signature. The first link provides an example of the type of service. This must be done in the UK though.
https://www.lordsphotography.co.uk/passport-photos/
https://www.gov.uk/how-the-post-offi...20paper%20form
https://www.lordsphotography.co.uk/passport-photos/
https://www.gov.uk/how-the-post-offi...20paper%20form
Quote: "If you are replacing a lost or stolen passport, you’ll need to provide details of someone who can confirm your identity.
This person will be emailed and asked to confirm your identity. Please check with them before you start the application that they are happy to be contacted for confirmation."
Source: https://www.postoffice.co.uk/identit...adult-passport
Even your GOV.UK link says the same:
"Using Check and Send is usually faster than posting your own application. HM Passport Office may still need to contact either you or your countersignatory to check details."
Apr 22nd 2026 | 4:18 am
#20
Thread Starter
Just Joined
Joined: Apr 2026
Posts: 9
Re: Struggling to find a countersignatory for a UK passport renewal
They have also retained my previous UK passport and my foreign passport as part of the process, which leaves me without valid documents while this is being resolved.
