Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 311 and 313 together.

The current processing time for paper-based passport applications submitted through An Post is 8 weeks. The processing time for these applications has decreased in recent months, as demand for passports has fallen in line with Passport Service forecasting. Out of the total number of paper applications processed by the Passport Service since 1 September 2022, 99.8% have been processed within 8 weeks of registration.

The Passport Service is pursuing a Digital First strategy and promoting Passport Online as the quickest, most convenient and least expensive channel for applicants. Passport Online has been a huge success and has allowed for the centralisation of passport processing resulting in greater efficiencies for the Passport Service and for customers.

Passport Online is available to 97% of applicants around the world regardless of whether they are first time applicants or are renewing their passport. Over 90% of applicants from around the world now apply for their passport using this channel. This has significantly reduced the number of applicants who need to visit the Post Office or the Passport Offices in Dublin or Cork to apply for their passport.

Whilst there are no current plans to reduce the processing time for paper-based applications, the Passport Service is committed to maintaining the published processing time.

There are currently 46 staff involved in the processing of paper-based postal applications in the Passport Service.