Subpostmasters will continue offering passport applications and renewals for another three years, following a contract extension with the government.

In a message sent to subpostmasters on 19 June, seen by Better Retailing, PO deputy chief executive Owen Woodley said: “Passport applications will continue to be offered in selected branches until at least 31 August, 2027.”

The initial contract, which made the service available in roughly 2,400 branches, was set to expire on 31 August, 2024. Woodley added the new contract also includes the option of a two-year extension by mutual agreement.

Post Office branches handling record amounts of cash withdrawals and deposits

There will also be no changes to Check & Send services, where selected branches provide support with passport applications.

He said: “The latest contract from our government services portfolio highlights the fantastic service that PO branches provide to the customers of our key government clients. In this case, every year over half a million passport customers will benefit from using select post office branches to get holiday ready with passport check & send and digital check & send.

“Thank you for the great service you provide to our passport and wider government service customers, this has been crucial in our negotiations to securing new contracts with our key clients.”

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