The Passport Office will take on more than 100 more staff to clear a backlog in applications, after concerns around receiving passports in time for summer holidays escalated this week.
Those working for the visa and immigration section are due to be trained in passport renewal applications in a letter seen by the Guardian, while a new office will open in Liverpool to help staff work on processing applications.
Home Secretary Theresa May also announced people renewing UK passports from overseas will be given a 12-month extension of their current passport, and overseas applications for children will be given emergency travel documents.
May also said those that need to travel urgently will have passport processed free of charge and has asked for two reviews to be conducted.
Plans to relax security checks on applications has been blocked as the government looks to clear a backlog of 30,000 delayed applications.
David Cameron said the delay had come after applications hit a 12-year high, with the office dealing with around 465,000 requests.
Passport renewals typically take three weeks to be sent back if all the information is correct, with people able to pay more for a fast-track service.
How the story unravelled
Last Week: Home Office denies issues with passport processing
Fri PM: Email leaked to Guardian details fraud staff moved to help clear backlog
Tues PM: Guardian publishes leaked photos showing hundreds of applications at Passport Office
Weds: Future holidaymakers speak out over ‘passport hell’
Weds PM: Rumours that processing will be relaxed to speed up the process are circulated
Thurs AM: Theresa May announces measures but relaxation is blocked
Thurs midday: It’s revealed the staff who leaked pictures of backlog are facing disciplinary action
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