Overview

• The Passport Office recorded a £223 million shortfall in 2023-24 and a cumulative £916 million deficit over five years, the NAO report found.
• The NAO estimated that fees would need to rise by about £32 per applicant to plug last year’s funding gap.
• Adult passport renewals currently cost £94.50 online and £222 for a one-day premium service after successive increases since 2023.
• A Home Office spokesperson confirmed there are no immediate plans to raise passport fees despite the NAO’s recommendation.
• The NAO identified a total £340 million cost-recovery shortfall across seven government charging services, including visas, courts and driving licences.