Passport Service - Tracking FAQs

Tracking/Turnaround Times

Q. Why is my passport taking so long? I was told in the post office it would take 15 working days.

A. While every effort is made to process applications within 15 working days, this is not always possible and depends on the level of demand and other factors. Current turnaround times are available on our website. It is advisable to apply at least six weeks ahead of any planned travel to avoid disappointment.

Staff in An Post/post offices are not authorised by the passport office to advise on turnaround times.

Q. My son/daughter has an application in. If I phone the passport office could you discuss the application with me?

A. If the applicant is over 18, for data protection reasons, we cannot discuss this application with a third party. The applicant will need to contact the passport office. If the applicant is under 18 we can discuss the application with a parent/guardian.

Q. My niece/nephew is under 18 and has an application in. If I phone the passport office could you discuss the application with me?

A. For data protection reasons we cannot discuss the application for a minor with anyone other than a parent/guardian.

Q. I have applied through Passport Express. Can I submit another application in Cork or Mount St?

A. No, it is not possible to have two applications in the system at the same time.

Q. Can you guarantee that it will be issued by the target issue date?

A. No, we cannot guarantee this.

Q. When should I apply for a new passport?

A general rule of thumb is to keep six months validity remaining on your passport from the date you’re returning home. You can travel right up to the date of expiry within the EU. However it is advisable to contact the embassy of the country to which you intend to travel with queries regarding their specific requirements.

You do not need to wait until your current passport has expired to apply for a new one.

It is advisable to apply at least six weeks ahead of any planned travel to avoid disappointment.

Q. I lost my tracking number. Can you help me track my application?

A. Please provide the name to appear on the passport, your date of birth, mother’s surname, address and PPSN by phone, email or web-chat and a member of staff will try to locate the application in the system and contact you.

Requests to Expedite Applications

Q. I need my passport before my target issue date. Can it be issued quicker?

A. Applications will only be prioritised in the case of a genuine travel emergency, made necessary by the death, illness or welfare of a family member. Please send full details, including tracking number, verifiable proof of emergency and details of travel to travelemergency[at]dfat[dot]ie.

Q. My passport application has passed the target issue by date. What should I do?

A. Please provide your tracking number by phone, email or web-chat and a member of staff will contact the issuing office about this.

Q. I need my passport to travel for a new job/interview/business. Can it be expedited?

A. (i) if you have submitted your application it won’t be possible to expedite it as it is already in the system. It will be issued within the stated turnaround period.

(ii) If you have not submitted your application you should make an appointment to visit the Passport Office in Mount Street or Cork. Please bring a copy of your travel details and confirmation of employment/interview.

Applicants in United Kingdom (excluding Northern Ireland)

Q. Why is it taking so long to get my passport? I applied through registered post in the UK.

A. The current turnaround times for applications submitted in the UK can be found on the Embassy of Ireland, Great Britain website. While every effort is made to meet these times, it is not always possible and depends on the level of demand and other factors.

Q. Do I need a passport to travel between Ireland and Great Britain?

A. No, you do not need a passport to travel between Ireland and Great Britain, however, some carriers/airlines require a passport as proof of identification. You should check with your carrier. (Note: all airlines accept the passport card).

Overseas

Q. I submitted an application through an Irish Embassy abroad but I can’t find it on the tracking system. When will it be ready?

A. The initial assessment of your application is performed by the Embassy/Consulate. Once entitlement is established your application will be sent to HQ for processing and only then is it recorded on our tracking system. Until it appears on the tracking system any requests for an update should be made via the Embassy/Consulate with which you submitted your application.

Collection

Q. Do I have to collect my passport myself?

A. If you submitted your application at the passport office in Mount Street or Cork, you may nominate a person to collect it on your behalf. They must bring a signed letter from you authorising them to collect the passport and their own photo ID.

Q. I applied through Passport Express. Can I collect my passport in the Balbriggan office?

A. No, the office in Balbriggan is not open to the public.

Q. I applied through Passport Express. Can I collect my passport from Mount Street / the Cork office?

A. No, all applications submitted through Passport Express will be returned by post to the address provided on your application.