If your passport has been lost, stolen or is due for renewal, there is some good news for you! The Department of Foreign Affairs announced a new feature that allows citizens to renew their passport online.
While there are certain criteria users must adhere to, it's very simple for the most part.
This is the online hub for the passport office. As you'll see, it's possible to apply for a Passport, Passport Card or both. There is no need for a witness to sign your application form, meaning the entire process can be completed in one sitting.
This service is only available to those whose passport is less than five years out of date, if the number begins with the letter L or P and if the applicant is over 18-years of age.
When renewing your passport, you must confirm that you are over 18, have previously had access to an Irish passport and that the name on the new passport will be the same as the previous passport. You must also explain why you are applying for a new passport. This can be 'expired, lost, stolen or damaged'.
Options
There are two options available to citizens once past this point. A standard passport book, which costs €80 and has 34 pages. The second option is a large passport book, which costs €100 and has 66 pages. This is recommended for those who frequently travel to countries that require visas. Both options last for 10 years.
From here, there is a list of items required to continue the process.
Photo
As with the traditional passport process, there are a number of rules and regulations around the photos that can be used for the online renewal process.
The photo must have been taken within the last six months. Digital enhancements are not allowed and applicants must have a neutral expression on their face.
It's possible to upload a professional photo, a photo code or a photo that has been captured at home, providing the image meets the above criteria. The DFA website has a very useful guide for those thinking of applying, to ensure their image is accepted.
It is important to note that this service is not available to those looking to apply for a passport for the first time. There is a comprehensive Q&A available on the DFA website, which you can read here.
