What is happening?

Passports for British nationals will be processed and printed in the UK Passport Service Centre for the Americas and Caribbean in Washington from 14 September 2009.

Why is this happening?

These changes are part of a global initiative to streamline the FCO passport operation; to reduce administration costs while improving security and maintaining a high quality of customer service.

What do these changes mean to me?

From 14 September 2009 passport applications should be sent by courier or registered post directly to:

The UK Passport Service Centre for the Americas and the Caribbean
British Embassy
19 Observatory Circle, NW
Washington, DC 20008

The passport team in The UK Passport Service Centre aim to issue all new passports within 10 working days following receipt of correct documentation and fees (including return courier fee US$21)

The British High Commission in Kingston will continue to issue limited validity Emergency Travel Documents when appropriate.

Before applying for a passport we suggest that you visit our website at: ukinusa.fco.gov.uk/passports

All the relevant passport forms can be downloaded together with information on the application process: application forms

For further information on the change please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.