Written answers

Tuesday, 5 March 2019

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Passport Applications Administration

Photo of Catherine MartinCatherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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110. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the reason it states under an item (details supplied) that a citizen who wishes to have a new passport following a name change must have two documents dating back two years from the point of application proving that name; the reason a public services card that was issued less than two years prior to date of application may be accepted as one of the documents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10552/19]

Photo of Simon CoveneySimon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The issuance of passports is subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008 (“the Act”). In cases where a name change arises other than by marriage, civil partnership or adoption, section 10 of the Act specifically requires evidence of the use of this new name over a two year period to be submitted before a passport can issue in a new name.

In order for passport to issue in a new name, two documents that show the applicant is using their new name, such as a driver's licence, college identification card, school report, social welfare receipts, pay slip, utility bills, bank statements or official correspondence from a public or private sector organisation must be supplied with the new passport application. These supporting documents must date back at least two years from the date that the application is made.

A copy of valid Public Services Card issued in the applicant’s new name can be considered as one document showing proof of usage, even if the card was issued less than 2 years ago. The PSC and the relevant issuing process, which is managed by the Department of Social Protection, is secure and robust and gives a high degree of assurance regarding the identity of the holder.

The Passport Service may request additional documentary evidence and information as may be needed to establish and verify an applicant’s identity.

These rules seek to protect the integrity and security of the Irish passports against passport and identity fraud while allowing for genuine cases where name changes have occurred. The Irish passport has a strong international reputation due to the strength of security features within the book and the robust processes involved in its issuance.

Comments

Shirley-Anne Mcmillan
Posted on 7 Mar 2019 2:13 pm (Report this comment)

Can someone from Northern Ireland who is an Irish citizen get a public services card? What about if their child needs a passport? Can they get a public services card? Where do we get one?

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