New series of British Passports being introduced from 2017

The Consular Division of HM British Embassy has advised us that a new series of UK passports will be being phased in from late January 2017. The main difference is that the passports will revert to having a signature in ink, to be signed upon receipt of the passport.

Further Info: https://abta.com/news-and-views/news/signatures-in-uk-passports

A few questions and answers:

Will my current UK passport cease to be valid?
No – valid UK passports with the signature in digital format will continue to be in circulation up until 2027.

Why and when do I need to sign my passport?
A passport is not valid for travel without the inclusion of a signature. Ideally, passport holders should sign their passport as soon they receive their new passport, However, the passport holder may add their signature at any point before they depart from the UK.

Where do I sign it?
Customers will need to sign above the pre-printed line above the page which shows their personal details such as their name and date of birth.

What should I sign it with?
Customers will need to sign using a black ballpoint pen.