Notifying HM Passport Office of a Death
0300 222 0000Everything you need to notify HM Passport Office after a bereavement, including the dedicated phone number, required documents, and how long the process takes.
Online Form
No online form available. Use the phone number or post instead.
Typical Timeline
Passport is officially cancelled and securely destroyed by HMPO.
How to notify HM Passport Office
Tell Us Once: Covers passport cancellation if available in your area
Phone: Call 0300 222 0000 (HM Passport Office helpline)
Post: Return passport to HM Passport Office
If abroad: Contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Documents you will need
- Passport of the deceased (cut corners off before sending to prevent misuse)
- Covering letter with deceased's details
What to say when you call
You do not need to prepare a detailed explanation. A brief, straightforward call is all that is needed. Here is a simple script you can follow:
"Hello, I am calling to notify you of a death. The account holder was [full name], and the date of death was [date]."
"I am their [relationship, e.g. son/daughter/executor]. My reference number from the death registration is [Tell Us Once reference number, if you have one]."
"Could you let me know what documents you need and what the next steps are?"
The bereavement team will guide you through the rest of the call. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details to hand before calling.
Additional information
- Tell Us Once is the preferred method and eliminates need to post the passport
- Cut off passport corners before posting as a security measure
- Passport should be returned promptly to prevent identity fraud risk
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify HM Passport Office of a death?
You can notify HM Passport Office by calling their bereavement team on 0300 222 0000. Have the death certificate and your identification ready before you make contact.
What documents does HM Passport Office need for bereavement?
HM Passport Office typically requires: Passport of the deceased (cut corners off before sending to prevent misuse), Covering letter with deceased's details. It is a good idea to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals may be retained temporarily.
How long does HM Passport Office take to process a bereavement?
Passport is officially cancelled and securely destroyed by HMPO.
Need to write to HM Passport Office?
Use our ready-made template letters to notify banks, utilities, and other organisations. Just fill in the details and send.
View Template Letters