Answered by Christ from United Kingdom | Aug. 16, 2015 22:53
Hi Grace, you can apply for a new one 12 months before your current passport expires.
You need to prepare the following documents first, including:
1. A filled-out application form;
2. A passport photo;
3. The original passport and a photocopy of the photo page;
4. The original and photocopy of the valid residence permit in UK.
If you have obtained British permanent residency, you should also submit a certificated issued by British Home Office stating that you are not naturalized.
Then take all the documents to the respective consular office and apply for a new passport.