The legislation states that if the identity of the horse cannot be established, a vet will need to complete a new identification form before a PIO is able to produce the replacement passport.
Also, any application received outside the statutory time limit will need to be processed as a replacement passport.
The passport will be stamped as a ‘replacement’ and Section IX Part II (or Section II Part II for passports issued from 1 January 2016) will be signed by a BHS representative to declare that the horse is not intended for human consumption.
Obtaining a replacement passport
Please contact the Passport Office to request a replacement form and provide your full name and address details on 02476 840517 or email passports@bhs.org.uk. Alternatively, you can download a replacement form here.
Please note:
- Replacement application forms are posted by second class delivery; please ensure that you have received the replacement application form before booking an appointment with your vet.
- The BHS cannot accept replacement application forms from any other organisation and such paperwork will not be processed and will be immediately returned to the sender.
Microchips
If the horse has an existing microchip, be sure to check the number on the Equine Register ChipChecker to confirm that the horse has not previously been issued a passport. If the microchip number produces a result, you will need to apply to the Passport Issuing Organisation that issued the original passport for a duplicate. This is because DEFRA states that once a horse has been issued a UELN (Universal Equine Life Number/passport number) it should remain unchanged for its lifetime, and only the original issuing PIO has authority to duplicate the original passport.
Key points to remember when completing the application
To help prevent any delays in your application being processed or an incorrect application being returned:
- Ensure that the application is completed, signed and stamped by an accredited vet
- All sections of the application are complete
- The silhouette is marked in red ink with a minimum of 5 identifying features
- The microchip number has been checked on the Equine Register chip checker
- The application has been completed on a BHS application form, applications completed on forms for alternative PIOs will be returned
- The DOB and signature of all owners is present on the form, and all owners are over the age of 16
Cost of application
Replacement passports cost £25.
For registered charities replacement passports cost £15.
All passports are sent out by recorded delivery (Signed For™) at no additional cost.
Processing Time
Upon receipt of a replacement application form, the BHS will usually issue your horse’s passport within 15 working days.
