Frequently Asked Questions - Passports
We have identified over 650 questions and answers concerning many of the topics featured on this site. The information is categorised and can be reached by navigating via the entries below.
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What will the rules be on passports in an independent Scotland?
We intend that Scottish citizens will be able to apply for a Scottish passport from the date of independence. Passport eligibility will be aligned with citizenship. If you qualify for Scottish citizenship then you will be entitled to carry a Scottish passport. Scottish passports will meet the standard requirements for EU passports.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
When can I get my Scottish passport?
We plan that Scottish citizens will be able to apply for Scottish passports from the date of independence.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
Who will issue my Scottish passport?
The current Scottish Government proposes a shared service agreement with HM Passport Office for a transitional period, with responsibility transferring to a new Scottish passport agency over the course of the first parliament of an independent Scotland.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
How much would a Scottish passport cost and how long would it last?
Fee scales will be published prior to independence. It is the current Scottish Government’s intention that passports in a newly independent Scotland will cost no more than the respective UK passport at that time.
Adult passports will last for 10 years and child passports for five years.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
Who can have a Scottish passport?
Under our plans, anyone who is a Scottish citizen will be eligible for a Scottish passport.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
Will I need to have a Scottish passport?
No. You will require a valid passport if you want to travel outside the Common Travel Area (Scotland, the rest of the UK, the Republic of Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands), but we will not impose a requirement for Scottish citizens to have a Scottish passport – just as there is no requirement now to have a UK passport.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
What would a Scottish passport look like and would it be valid for travel around the world?
Scottish passports will comply with EU standards for passports. They will look much the same as current UK passports in colour, size, and layout but will be identified as a Scottish passport on the front cover. Scottish passports will be recognised worldwide.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
I still have a number of years left of my UK passport, can I keep it? Would I be able to renew my UK passport?
The Scottish Government plans to recognise valid UK passports until they expire. As set out above, the Scottish Government intends to allow dual nationality and would not place any obstacles in the way of individuals holding a Scottish passport alongside a UK passport.
Entitlement to UK passports will be a matter for the rest of the UK.
Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.
