Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 April 2025
185. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide clarity in the application procedure for adults applying for a first passport (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19005/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll passport applications are subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008, as amended (“the Act“). The Act provides a legal basis for the various policies and procedures that are applied by the Passport Service in the issuing of passports.
The Passport Service takes its responsibility to protect the integrity of the Irish passport very seriously. Due to the strength of the security features within the passport book and the robust processes involved in its issuance, the Irish passport has a strong international reputation. Recently, the Irish passport was ranked third in the Henley Global Passport Index as it provides our citizens with visa-free access to 189 countries. Accordingly, a rigorous analysis process is in place to verify the identity and citizenship status of first time applicants.
Section 7 of the Act provides that before issuing a passport to a person the Passport Service shall be satisfied as to the identity of the person. Photographic identification is required for all adult first time passport applications, whether that application is made online or through paper. The Passport Service accepts the following forms of photo identification: original government issued photographic identification, such as a Public Services Card, an original passport from another country or a certified copy of a driver’s licence (certified by a Garda, solicitor, notary or the issuing authority).
With regard to the specific case to which the Deputy refers, the Passport Service can confirm that applicants can apply for a Public Services Card (PSC) without any form of photo ID by attending an in-person interview at a PSC Registration Centre. Additional information, which can be verified to confirm the applicant’s identity, may be gathered at their appointment interview. Applicants can contact their local PSC Centre for more information about what documents they can provide to help verify their identity.
