Not a scam but definitely profiteering around a misconception that it is difficult and risky to DIY Passport full so decided to renew it while in Kuala Lumpur and felt the support of an agency would speed up and derisk the process. I did get new and old passports back in just over three weeks - so thankfully NOT a scam - but still can't help feeling mugged. Around double the cost of DIY and little or no value added to the process which was in fact extended I estimate by one week through involving UKPA (non working week ends, time differences, email turnaround etc.). Also for me an anxious 5 day wait wondering if I had been scammed from paying my money USD 335 for a jumbo passport to getting any concrete proof that application had been submitted i.e. PEX reference and email used through .GOV portal. Applying directly through the GOV portal is very clear, straightforward and efficient and you will be directly updated on the process by both.GOV and DHL throughout if you DIY. Even better and quicker to go to a DHL service point yourself and pay them directly to courier your documents to the passport office rather than wait around all day for then to come to you if organised by UKPA. All UKPA is doing is checking your passport details and uploading the information & digital photo you provide from a template that exactly mirrors the GOV portal and paying the outbound DHL cost. I estimate less than half a days work if being generous for which they get USD 335 less .GOV passport cost GBP 110.50 less DHL outbound USD 50 ....nice work if you can get it! They are not influencing or speeding up the process in any way.... in fact they are slowing it down by adding extra steps. They don't explicitly claim a government relationship, in fact they state they are not associated in the fine print...but it is inferred through their branding. Unless you are extremely underconfident then DIY - or ask a friend to help and take them out for dinner afterwards with the money you will save. Nothing illegal with what UKPA is doing....its just expensive and inefficient. They seem to be preying on a mystique that it's difficult and risky to DIY...its NOT! I have written it all down to experience under Buyer Beware.

I recently applied (from abroad) for a… I recently applied (from abroad) for a new UK passport. I was not looking forward to the experience but things couldn't have gone any smoother. I was constantly updated with (firstly) what I need to do and then updated on the progress and delivery of the passport by 'Miguel'. It felt as though Miguel was personally taking care of me and I found having a sole point of contact very reassuring.

This service was excellent the help and… This service was excellent the help and response was so helpful we expect living in Australia to be a long and stressful process but just the opposite they were outstanding great team work many thank again Kind regards Rosemary Divers /John McCarthy

Really smooth and efficient application process The whole process from start to finish was smooth and extremely efficient. The initial website process is really user-friendly, and the assistance from the consultant assigned to the application is of great value. Due to this assistance, there were no delays, the documentation details were clearly explained, and the issuing and delivery process was very quick. Thanks very much, is all I can say... :)

EXCELLENT!!! This was such an incredibly simple process of renewing my British Passport and updating it into my married surname. I was kept up to date with the progress of the renewal, every step of the way. The way my consultant, Renate responded to every question I had, was very thorough and professional. A very big THANK YOU!!!