Identity Guides

These articles look at topics relating to proving your identity, including replacement of lost or expiring passports, what’s needed to enter particular countries and what’s involved in DBS Checks for employment.

Checking your passport’s validity before you travel

Heading off abroad? Before you pack your bags, it’s important to check your UK passport’s still in date. Different countries have specific entry requirements. If your ...

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Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks explained

We process around 200,000 DBS checks in Post Office branches every year for a range of organisations. Here, we've outlined the process so you know what's involved and ...

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How to replace a lost or stolen passport

Whether you’re on holiday or back home in the UK, losing your passport can be a true traveller’s nightmare. But our guide to replacing a lost passport will help you do ...

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland biometric passport on wooden surface

What are biometric passports?

First issued in the UK in 2010, biometric passports add a number of new security features to the traditional passport, with an embedded microchip containing the holder’s ...

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Electronic System for Travel Authorisation

With a valid ESTA you can visit the US for less than 90 days without needing a visa – as long as it's for a holiday or business trip. We’ve summarised how it works, how ...