To countersign a document means to sign a paper that has already been signed by someone else. In the case of a UK passport application, the countersignature can only be executed by a specific person and is required to vouch for the authenticity of the application.
The countersignature is mandatory under Section 10 of the passport application form and on the back of one of the passport photos.
The countersignature is mandatory in the following scenarios:
The counter signatory who signs the application form and the photo must:
For child applications the counter signatory must also:
The counter signatory cannot be:
Once the applicant has completed the application form, the counter signatory needs to check the details are correct and then complete and sign section 10 with his or her own handwriting.
The counter signatory must give their full address and contact details. This could either be a business or home address, as long as they are contactable there.
They must put their initials next to any mistakes they make in section 10.
By signing and completing section 10 this confirms that:
For child applications the counter signatory must know the person with parental responsibility who is signing the application form rather than the child, along with certifying the child's photo.
The counter signatory will need to write the following on the back of one of the passport photos provided:
I certify that this is a true likeness of the applicant [title and full name of the applicant].
The counter signatory must add his or her signature and the date below this statement.