Going on holiday is an exciting time but you’ll need to make sure you’ve got a valid passport that has passed all the necessary checks to leave the UK.
If you need to renew or get a new passport before jetting off, you might need someone to countersign it so that your application can be approved.
You might be wondering who can countersign your passport, including your neighbour since they might be someone you know and they live close by, making it easier to get your passport to them.
When do you need someone to countersign your passport?
Some paper applications and photos for passports need to be signed by someone else to prove the identity of the person applying.
The government explains the circumstances when you will need to get your paper form and two print photos signed.
If you’re applying for a:
- first adult passport
- first child passport
- replacement for a lost, stolen or damaged passport
- renewal of a passport for a child aged 11 or under
- renewal of a passport if your appearance has changed and you cannot be recognised from your existing passport
Can my neighbour countersign my passport?
Your neighbour can countersign your passport but they will need to meet the same criteria as anyone else who you might want to sign your passport.
This criteria means your neighbour would have to have known you, or the adult who signed the form if you’re a child under 16, for at least two years.
They must be able to identify you and not be someone who just knows you professionally.
They have to be someone who is ‘a person of good standing in their community’ or who works in or has retired from a recognised profession.
Recommended reading:
- Why are passports different colours and what does each colour mean?
- Can you still use a burgundy passport for travelling in 2024? Rules to follow
- Is the new UK passport black or blue in colour? Why it changed and what it means
Who can’t be your countersignatory on a passport?
If you’re related to someone by birth or marriage, they can’t countersign your passport.
You also can’t have your passport signed by someone you are in a relationship with or that lives at the same address as you.
If you’re applying in the UK, your countersignatory must live in the UK and have a current British or Irish passport.
The government adds: "It’s a criminal offence to make a false declaration on a passport application."
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