People planning trips in the coming months are being reminded to check their passport expiry dates well in advance and to apply early to avoid unnecessary delays.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is advising the public to use the Passport Online service, which is available 24 hours a day worldwide and remains the fastest and most cost effective way to renew or apply for a passport. More than 96 per cent of applicants are now using the online system.
Travellers are being urged to check their passport before booking holidays, as many countries require passports to be valid for a number of months beyond the date of travel. Leaving applications until the last minute can lead to stress and disruption, particularly during busy periods.
Online renewals for adult passports are typically processed very quickly, but longer processing times can apply for children’s passports and first time applicants. Families are advised to plan ahead, especially when travelling with children, to ensure all documents are in place.
Changes introduced at the end of 2025 mean that traditional paper applications are no longer accepted. Anyone who cannot apply online must now use the Passport Assist Service.
For those in urgent need of a passport renewal, appointments are available in Dublin, Cork and London. However, these are limited and are not available for first time applications.
Applicants are also reminded to ensure their digital photos meet the required guidelines, as incorrect images are one of the most common causes of delays.
The standard fee for a 10 year adult passport is €75, while a passport card bundle costs €100.
With demand for passports remaining high, the advice is clear. Check your passport now and apply early to avoid disappointment when it comes time to travel.
