I expect some of you will remember I recently asked about passports to Belgium as I only had a couple of weeks remaining on mine on my return trip.

Well despite the fact that it may well have been ok I decided I would feel more comfortable if I had a passport with more than 6 months so I decided to renew it.

Off I went to the Post Office last Tuesday and did check and send which they reckon 2 weeks but usually back much quicker. Well, that was ok as I am going on my trip on 28/2/09.

This morning I got a brown envelope and got excited that it would be my passport, well yes it is my passport, my old passport with all the corners cut off!

Is this normal that you get your old passport back first? If so how long before your new one is sent to you?

Got a sudden panic mode that now I have no passport! Assured my friend last night that my passport will be back well in good time.

Many thanks.

ET

I think it's normal - they've had a look at your passport so they know who you are and then they've cancelled it so you can't use it. I hope your new one will turn up soon

this is normal - it happened to me too. i don't remember how soon after that the new one came, but it was pretty quick.

Yes, they always send back the old passport first. I'm sure your new one will arrive in a week or so.

Yup... They don't need the old one so snip off the corner and post it back.

Your new one will arrive by secure carrier and have to be signed for, too. It does feel as bit as if you've been cut adrift, doesn't it? But is a good sign and suggests the new passport will be with you soon .

Oh thank you, that makes me feel much better, hope it arrives tomorrow and before I have to go out, otherwise no doubt another trip to the post office, still at least if it means I get my passport!

Thank you to everyone that answered me.

ET

Don't forget to allow time for them to print it - this isn't as quick as cancelling (cutting) your old one!