Huge surge in demand for passports

TAOISEACH Enda Kenny has reminded constituents in Mayo to check their passports immediately if travelling in the coming weeks.

The Passport Service is in peak season, with 68,281 applications in the system. The level of demand is exceptional this year, corresponding to an increase in outbound travel.

This sustained surge in demand has put pressure on turnaround times. The Passport Service has taken a number of steps, including recruiting additional temporary staff and increasing overtime in order to minimise the impact on turnaround times.

Applicants are reminded to apply well in advance of travel and to be sure to use the most appropriate application channel, depending on when they are travelling.

It is really important that people check that their passport is in date before booking a trip. Secondly, it is best practice to allow six weeks turnaround time when applying for a passports - applications can be delayed if forms are incorrectly completed or not accompanied by the correct documentation.

The increase this year is the largest in 10 years. The turnaround time for renewals through Passport Express is currently 14 working days while first time applications, which take longer due to additional anti-fraud measures, is 22 working days.

It is important that applicants use the correct channel when applying:

* Generally, Passport Express, through An Post, is the most convenient and least expensive channel. Those who wish to renew a passport need to allow three weeks, first time applicants need to allow at least four weeks.

* If travel arrangements fall outside those projected turnaround times, an appointment should be made at the passport offices in Dublin or Cork.

* In cases or urgent travel within three days, the Rapid Renewal Service at the Dublin Passport Office should be used.

* It is best practice to allow six weeks turnaround time.

* A wide range of information and a Q&A is available on the DFAT website: www.dfa.ie.