Staff at London's main passport office have begun a three-day strike that may hit holidaymakers needing swift passports.
Workers at the city's passport base have left their posts in a row over pay and the Government's office closure programme.
The strike will also hit six other regional passport offices and 68 interview offices, the Public and Commercial Services Un
ion (PCS) said.
The stoppage - which comes at the start of the school holidays - means that anyone who discovers their passport has expired may have to miss their holiday.
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "The closure of the Glasgow passport office and the threat to a further unnamed three is fuelling the anger over the government's policy of below inflation pay.
"It is disgraceful that long-serving passport staff should receive no pay rise for the fifth year in a row and that efficient hardworking staff should be rewarded with a pay cut in real terms."
He added: "With food, fuel and housing cost soaring, the Government's policy of below inflation pay has further incensed a workforce uncertain about their future but passionate about the service they provide."
An Identity and Passports Service spokesman said: "IPS will strive to maintain a service to the public and keep any inconvenience to a minimum during the period of the strikes.
"All IPS regional office counters will remain open and we are able to issue passports for those in emergency situations or with urgent needs.
"Any customer who has booked for premium services or an interview will have the appointment honoured."
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