New passport rules introduced for teens

Teenagers aged 16 and 17 will no longer need their parent's consent to apply for a passport, under new government rules set to come into force in December.

According to the Identity and Passport Service this will bring passports in line with existing legislation covering the rights of 16 and 17-year-olds.

Only in cases where the teenager has a mental impairment or if a court order is in place will the child be exempt from the ruling.

Home Office Minister Meg Hillier said: "Today's changes will bring passport practice into line with court practice on allowing young people to take responsibility for their own decisions.

"At the same time a new requirement will be introduced for children aged 11 or under for passport renewals to be countersigned.

"It is important that we positively identify children so that passports cannot be used to facilitate child abduction or human trafficking."

The new regulations will become law on December 10th.

Digg    Reddit    Facebook    Tweet This