Guide to Getting a Passport for Traveling in Ireland and Around the World

Introduction

Applying for an Irish passport for the first time as an adult involves several steps and requirements. Whether applying online, by mail, or in person, understanding the process ensures a smooth application experience.

If your last passport was issued when you were a minor and is still valid or has only recently expired, your request will be processed as a renewal rather than an initial application. Passports for adults remain valid for a decade. However, if your most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you must follow the process for first-time applicants.

To avoid travel disruptions, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises submitting applications at least eight weeks in advance when applying by mail and no less than 20 days prior to travel when applying online. Online applications are the quickest way to get your passport.

Passport Online Service

The Passport Online service provides a convenient way to apply for an Irish passport from anywhere in the world. To use this service, applicants must have an email address, access to a printer, and a credit or debit card for payment. The process involves submitting an online application form and mailing original documents to the Passport Office.

Digital Photographs

Applicants must provide a digital photograph that meets specific requirements. There are three ways to do this:

• Use a participating photo provider that issues a unique code for submission with your application.
• Have a photo taken elsewhere and get a copy of the digital file.
• Take a photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone that conforms to the Passport Service’s guidelines.

Identity Verification

Upon completing the online application, applicants must print and sign an Identity Verification Form. If you’re in Ireland, a member of the Garda Síochána must also sign it, while applicants abroad can have it signed by a witness that meets Irish government requirements, such as a police officer, a doctor, a bank manager, or a notary public.

Submitting Documents

Once the online application is completed, print out an Application Cover Page, which lists the required documents that need to be submitted by mail. All documents must be original, and applicants are encouraged to use secure postal methods. Those outside Ireland should use a reliable postal service or submit documents to their nearest Irish Embassy.

Applying by Mail Through Post Passport

People residing in Ireland can also get a passport using An Post‘s Post Passport service. Applicants must complete form APS 1, available at post offices and Garda stations. A set of four identical passport photographs is required, with two signed by the application witness. The witness must also record the form number from Section 9 of the application form on the signed photographs.

Post Passport Service Abroad

Residents of Northern Ireland can access Post Passport through select U.K. post office branches. In the rest of the U.K., this service is also available at post offices in Cardiff, Glasgow, and Liverpool. Applicants using Post Passport outside of Ireland must have a witness sign their application and include their contact number for verification.

Applying in Person

Submitting a first-time passport application in person is discouraged, as in-person service at the Passport Office is intended only for people who need to seek urgent renewals. First-time applications require citizenship verification and document authentication, making these applications too complex to be handled efficiently in person.

If you do not have access to Post Passport or Passport Online services where you are, you may apply in person at the nearest Irish Embassy or mail your application materials to the embassy or consulate location nearest you. Use form APS 2 for these applications.

Fees for Passports

The costs associated with an Irish passport depend on the application method and the passport type.

Standard 34-Page 10-Year Passport

• Online: €75 (plus €15 postage if applying from outside of Ireland)
• Post Passport: €80 plus €9.50 for one application or €16 if you’re applying for passports for a family of up to four people

Large 66-Page 10-Year Passport

• Online: €105 (plus €15 postage if applying from outside of Ireland)
• Post Passport: €110 plus €9.50 for one application or €16 if you’re applying for passports for a family of up to four people

What Documents Do I Need?

Applicants must provide several original documents, including:

• Identity verification form
• Civil birth certificate
• Civil marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of address
• Proof of name
• Copy of Public Services Card or original government-issued photo ID

Additional documents may be necessary based on individual circumstances, such as proof of naturalization, adoption records, or foreign birth registration certificates. For instance, if you hold Irish citizenship by descent or you gained Irish citizenship through marriage, you’ll need documentation verifying your citizenship status. Non-English documents should also be accompanied by certified translations.

How Long Will My Passport Application Take?

Processing times vary depending on the application method:

• Online Applications: Approximately 20 working days
• Postal Applications: At least 8 weeks, excluding postage time, with potential delays during peak periods
• U.K. Postal Applications: A minimum of 8 weeks

Applicants can track their application status with the Passport Tracking Service using the application number from their submitted form.

If you need to contact the Passport Service about applying for or renewing your passport, you can reach the Dublin office at +353 (0)1 671 1633 on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. local time.

Obtaining a Non-Irish Passport

If you hold dual citizenship, you may also be able to apply for a passport from another country. The process of getting a passport is similar in many other countries, but the specifics will vary from one nation to the next. While Ireland offers online and postal applications, many countries require in-person submissions at embassies or government offices.

• United States: Passport applications must be submitted in person at designated facilities for first-time applicants. Renewals can be done by mail under certain conditions.
• United Kingdom: Applications can be made online or by mail.
• Canada: First-time applicants must apply in person at passport offices or designated service locations, while renewals may be completed by mail.
• Australia: Passports are applied for in person at passport offices, post offices, or embassies.

Each country has specific requirements regarding documents, processing times, and fees. It’s advisable to check with the relevant passport authority for up-to-date information when applying for a non-Irish passport.