Cookies
The online passport application service puts small files (known as ‘cookies’) onto your device in order to:
- remember what messages you’ve seen so you’re not shown them again
- understand how you use the service so we can update and improve it
- temporarily store information you enter to support your application
Find out more about the cookies we use, what they’re for and when they expire.
Optional cookies
Cookies that measure website use
We use Google Analytics to collect information about how you use this service. This helps us check it’s meeting your needs and make improvements.
Google isn’t allowed to use or share our analytics data and you can opt out of Google Analytics cookies (opens in new tab).
| Name | Purpose | Expires |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Used to distinguish users | 2 years |
| _gat | Used to throttle request rate | 10 minutes |
| _gcl_au | Used by Google AdSense for experimenting with advertisement efficiency across websites using their services | 3 months |
| _gid | Used to distinguish users | 24 hours |
| _gac | Contains campaign related information for the user | 90 days |
These cookies don’t identify you personally. You can still apply for a passport online if you don’t accept cookies that measure website use.
Essential cookies
Essential cookies remember your progress through your application. They always need to be on.
Introductory cookie message
When you first use the service we show a ‘cookie message’. We then store a cookie on your computer so it knows not to show this message again.
| Name | Purpose | Expires |
|---|---|---|
| ga-opt-in | Used to store your Google Analytics preference | 1 month |
Session cookies
We store session cookies on your computer to help keep your information secure while you use the service.
| Name | Purpose | Expires |
|---|---|---|
| hmpo.*.sid | Stores a session ID and temporarily stores data you enter to enable you to register or make an application | When you close your browser |
| lang | Stores your language choice | When you close your browser |
| pex-last-access | Stores the time you last accessed the service | 24 hours |
Error detection
| Name | Purpose | Expires |
|---|---|---|
| hmpo-wizard-sc | Used to detect errors and show relevant content – eg if your session has expired | When you close your browser |
| pex-submitted | Used to detect a previously submitted application and show relevant content | 1 month |
| pex-cc | Used to detect if cookies are enabled and show relevant content | When you close your browser |
I’ve spent 20 minutes on this page and I need more time. Give me another 30 minutes.