Minister Charlie McConalogue is urging Donegal residents to carefully check their passport expiry dates before booking holidays abroad this summer.
Having suffered through two summers of covid hit restrictions, many people are getting excited to book and go on sun holidays for what would be the first time in three years for a lot of people.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine is warning people that the passport office is extremely busy at this time of the year and it is advised that you do not book holidays until you have an in-date passport.
Minister McConalogue said: “My office has been receiving a high volume of correspondence in relation to passports.
“Due to the high number of passport applications, we are recommending that you check your passport before you book any flights.
“We recommend that applications are made online. This is the fastest turnaround time for passport applications.
“First time applications are the most complex as all documents need to be verified. You should not book any travel until you have received a passport as these applications cannot be expedited.”
Paper Applications via An Post
This application will take significantly longer than Passport Online for renewals. You should use Passport Online if you have travel plans within the next 3 months. The current estimated turnaround time is 8 weeks, but this is not a service guarantee and you should not book flights until you have your passport.
Timelines for online passport turnarounds:
- Simple Adult Renewal for online applications 10 Working days.
- Complex Renewals for online applications 15 Workings days.
- First Time Applicants (Adult+Child) for online applications 35 Working Days.
Posted Applications via An Post:
- Adult and Child Renewal 8 weeks.
- First time application 8 weeks.
- Lost/stolen/damaged replacement 8 weeks.
Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Jack Murray also warned of the issue as he has been flooded with questions on the topic.
Mr. Murray said: “Just a word of warning as I’ve recently been inundated with queries from people facing delays with passport applications.
“If you’re planning on any holidays or travel this summer, check the date on your passport, and if necessary apply for your renewal as early possible so you don’t get caught too.”
