Change description : 2025-11-05 16:43:00: This guidance has been updated to clarify case notes do not need to be added to an application accessed with no action or decisions made, to tell examiners they must view outcomes, decisions and case notes on the DAP timeline, in section ‘How to read and record permanent records of information’ to update the list of who can read and record decisions, case notes and passport notes, to remove reference to the Application Management system (AMS). [Guidance and regulation]
This guidance tells HM Passport Office staff about the importance of reading and recording information and why recording a permanent record is an important part of the passport application process.
It explains the different types of case notes and passport notes found in applications and passport records and who can read and record them.
Updated to reflect the change in our sovereign from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to His Majesty King Charles III, include references to our Contact Centres, include new referee terminology, clarify how DAP searches are recorded in the timeline, clarify case notes do not need to be added to an application accessed with no action or decisions made.