Brits are reminded that there are certain situations in which you don’t need to renew your passport. As long as your document is still in date and not damaged, there will be no need to update it.

A passport is an important document required to travel abroad. For adults, a passport should last 10 years before needing to be renewed.

However, if it is damaged or your change your name or gender you will have to apply for a new one. GOV.UK also states that if you’ve changed your appearance to the extent that you’re no longer recognisable in your passport photo, you will need to renew.

The Government website said: “The name on your passport must match the one you use when you book your travel.

"You’ll be sent a new 10 year passport. Time left on your old passport will not be added to your new one.”

It added: "If your passport is damaged you must replace it. You may not be able to travel with it." The HM Passport Office will consider a passport damaged if:

• You cannot read any of your details
• Any of the pages are torn, cut or missing
• There are holes, cuts or tears in the cover
• The cover is detaching
• There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)

However, there are seven circumstantial changes in which you do not need a new passport. These are if you:

• Change your address or contact details
• Get a new job
• Change your appearance slightly - for example, dye your hair or grow a beard
• Change your marital status (divorce, marry or form a civil partnership) but keep your name
• Change your title, for example, doctor or professor
• Become a national of another country as well as the UK
• Emigrate

Regarding your passport's expiry date, the requirements will differ depending on where you're headed. Some countries insist on at least six months remaining on your passport upon arrival, while others only require three.

For a full breakdown of passport requirements by country, visit the Government website here.

Applying for a passport online

To apply online, head to the Government website here. Key requirements include a digital photograph, a valid payment method (credit or debit card), and your existing passport if you're renewing.

Furthermore, applicants must supply proof of their identity and citizenship. The application fee for adults stands at £102, while children's passports are priced at £66.50.

For anyone requiring assistance with the online application, local Post Office branches provide support services. Their staff are able to:

• Take your digital photo
• Help with completing the online application

Be mindful that this service carries an extra charge.

Postal applications

Paper passport applications are available from your local Post Office. Keep in mind that postal applications generally take longer to process than online ones.

They're also more expensive than online applications, setting you back £115.50. You'll be required to submit a completed application form alongside your supporting documents, two photographs, and the relevant fee.

Post Office staff can assist in making sure your form is properly completed - though you'll need to supply your own photos. Payment can be made using cash, debit or credit cards.

Fast-track applications

If the standard three-week processing period is cutting it too close with your holiday plans, several quicker options are available for securing a passport. According to the Government website: "You can pay to get a passport urgently if you think the standard service will take too long."

To take advantage of these fast-track services, you'll need to secure an appointment at a passport office:

• The same-day premium service carries a charge of £239.50 (or £253.50 for the 54-page frequent traveller passport)
• The one-week express service costs £192 for an adult passport (or £206 for the 54-page frequent traveller passport), and £156.50 for a child's passport (or £170.50 for the 54-page version)

For further information, visit the Government website here.