Jerseygirl

You can get an Emergency travel Document that way. UK PPs are now issued in the UK only and sent to your US address.

windsong

Since you mentioned it, what is the criteria for obtaining an ETD? Does it have to be that a family member in the UK is critically ill or something similar? Where do you go to get one?

Jerseygirl

This may help http://britishexpats.com/forum/showp...61&postcount=5.

I don't think you need a reason...but you have to show that you have your travel dates. If you read the entire thread the above post belongs to you will find further info.

If you search the US forums you should be able to find a number of threads discussing ETDs.

windsong

Thank you.

It seems it is MUCH easier to get an ETD than a passport renewal. An ETD takes 40 minutes and a passport takes 4-6 weeks. Dreadful! I wonder who came up with the idea of having all passport applications processed through the UK? I actually prefer it that way because my passport up is nothing to do with the USA; it's just that it takes SO darned long.

Can you use an ETD to "stay" in the UK - or only to visit? I couldn't find that answer in the links nor on the consulate's web site.

Jerseygirl

Google is your friend.

https://www.gov.uk/emergency-travel-document

rebs

Windsong, does this thread indicate that you have an imminent return date sorted and need your passport pronto

BritInParis

You're unlikely to get an ETD if your passport expired 15 years ago.

Six weeks is the conservative maximum waiting time for a passport. Providing your application is in order you'll probably receive your passport within two to four weeks.

windsong

Thank you!!!!! Everything is in order with my old passport and application. Nothing has changed and all very simple.

Would it be acceptable to include a fee for them to overnight/express it back to me? (This is what I did when I renewed my US passport but there was an option on the application to request express return.)

Celticspirit

There are companies who will express for you for an extra $100 or so.

windsong

Do you know, I forgot all about those places. I have used them many times in the business sector but it didn't occur to me to use them for my own needs. They also check the application to make sure it is correct; however, $100 is pretty steep. It's worth a call, though, to find out how much using their services could speed up the process.

Celticspirit

My son was going on a European trip after graduation from high school. His passport had somehow found itself on the kitchen floor.......the is many years ago as he is now 42. My only dog at that time (chihuahua) chewed off the corner where the ID # was.....an express passport company saved his trip.

BritInParis

Last time I checked DHL held the contract, though it may be Fedex in the US? You can send it by courier from your end if you like. Just remember to include your full birth certificate and a photocopy of your US passport.

Jerseygirl

Why do they need a copy of the US PP? My UK PP will need renewing In a couple of years...as I am now a USC to I have to send a copy if my US PP?

Karma_Babe

I'm British Born and I've been living in the Netherlands for five years ... passport renewal started in MAY and I'm still waiting today and it's Oct 25th 2013, despite an interview and proof that I am who I say I am. *PROOF FROM ENGLAND!! and I have my National Heath Card and I'm an ex police woman - complaints procedure doesn't work.

Now I am forced to kiss goodbye to my job return to the U.K because of this nightmare so I have no encouragement to give you dear.

BritInParis

They actually ask you to send any foreign passports you hold in. A photocopy with a covering note will suffice however.

https://www.gov.uk/government/upload..._Gp1_08.13.pdf

Sounds like a nightmare although very strange. Did you give you any explanation why they doubted your identity? Did you apply to Paris or Durham?