An essential step in the passport application process is to find a counter-signatory to sign your passport photo. The idea behind this is simple, the counter-signatory is a person of trustworthy status who has known you for a certain period of time who signs to confirm that you are who you say you are.
The process is simple, but problems can delay your passport application, so it’s best to know exactly who can countersign your passport photo and what they need to write.
For further information, refer to the Gov.uk website.
[h2]Who can countersign[/h2]
The first step is to find someone who is willing, able, and eligible to countersign your passport photograph. There aren’t many rules to this, but there are certain requirements. The person, for example, must not be related to you by birth or marriage, be in a relationship with you or live at the same address as you.
The person must be someone of good standing, be they working or retired, ideally from a recognised profession such as a doctor or school teacher. They must have known the applicant for a period of at least two years, and be able to easily identify the applicant.
[h2]Getting the photo counter-signed[/h2]
Once the person has agreed to countersign your passport photo, it’s simple. All they have to do is write on the back of the photo the following:
“I certify that this is a true likeness of [the applicant’s title and full name].”
With that done all they need to do is provide their signature and the date, and it’s done. The counter-signatory will also have to check through your application and provide their signature, and passport number, to confirm that to the best of their knowledge the information you have given is accurate.
Please also be aware that the passport office may need to contact your counter-signatory in the event they require any more information, so please make sure they’re aware of this. If they go on holiday for example and can’t be reached it will delay your passport application, so ensure they’re available if needs be.
