Visaservice is a visa/passport processing agency based in London, UK. They will processes (from online application forms) applications for UK residents, visitors to the UK and residents from other countries. With an extensive visa information database, agency facilities at most London consulates and access to all major courier and transport facilities they can process visas for most nationalities to destinations around the world, including those where representation is outside the UK. You can also obtain a copy of a birth, marriage, adoption or death certificate here.

When you next need to replace your passport, and provided you’re not in too much of a hurry (as we were when my son left his passport in his to-be-washed sweatshirt pocket ten days before we were due to go skiing) then use this website to download the Passport application form, fill it in and submit it to the Passport office after which it will be completed and sent to you for final signature. If this sounds complicated, it’s not. If you’re in a hurry you need to call for an appointment for their fast track service, details of which again you’ll find here.

If you, like me, at some time have had a panicked moment realising that you can’t find a copy of your (or one of your children’s) birth certificates – you know, at that frantic moment when you don’t have enough time to renew your passport - then click to this website; where you can use their two day priority service for replacement certificates. It’s extremely easy to fill in their form, your certificate will be sent by special delivery to the UK or Airsure worldwide.