obtaining new passport form
 

Hi, I have to renew my passport (just 9 months left and I need to get some new visas stamped, so it's time).

I just downloaded the form and the notes and there's a requirement to have it countersigned by an MP, JP, religious minister, Bank officer etc or person of similar standing (!). They would prefer a Commonwealth citizen but do allow that a citizen of the country in which you are residing can sign it if they 'have a similar standing'.

I'm pretty stuck for ideas. I know a local school teacher, that's about it, I could probably dig up a lawyer (no jokes please), again a local. Cannot think of a commonwealth citizen at all let alone one 'of similar standing'.

Any suggestions as to what is really acceptable? Or probably more useful, has anyone ever had one rejected because they picked an unsuitable countersignatory?

Thanks

I get the company lawyer to sign it - lets face it, if they'll accept it from a lawyer, they're not that fussy :-)

Easy Peasy.

If it's just a straightforward renewal (eg. no new name/radical change of facial features/change of sex!!!) then you don't need to have your application countersigned as you will be sending in your current passport with your renewal application form.

I've recently had a new British passport issued and here is the info. regarding the fact that countersignatures are *not* necessary in a straightforward renewal:

http://www.britain-info.org

Go to the Consular page for info about British Passports issued abroad, and click on the FAQ's.

No worries! ;)

well thanks. I just filled mine in and I'll mail it off tomorrow. I
look much the same as I did 10 years ago (although not quite
the same as I did 10 before that).

Roland