By: Isuru Parakrama
November 05, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Immigration and Emigration is introducing a digital system for booking passport appointments through tokens, effective from Wednesday (06).
This initiative aims to streamline the process, allowing the public to reserve a date for passport applications using their National Identity Card (NIC) number via the department’s official website.
Acting Controller General of Immigration and Emigration, Nilusha Balasooriya, announced the new system at a recent press briefing, emphasising its role in easing queues and assisting those travelling from distant areas.
Starting December 01, appointments made using online tokens will be available, allowing the department time to clear a backlog of existing passport requests.
Balasooriya clarified that the token booking portal will be accessible on the left side of the department’s website under “Register to apply for a passport.”
Through this system, applicants can reserve dates from anywhere at any time using a smartphone or computer.
To manage demand, a limited number of tokens will be issued daily, with alternative dates offered if the chosen date’s quota is full.
To protect applicants from scams, Balasooriya cautioned against unofficial agents claiming to secure tokens on behalf of the department, warning that such bogus tokens would be invalid and lead to further delays.
Applicants should avoid visiting the department in person to book appointments after tomorrow (06), as all reservations will now be managed online.
For those requiring passports urgently, the system permits booking the earliest available date, after which applicants can present documentary proof of their emergency need.
An independent committee within the department will review these cases to ensure the validity of emergency requests. Strict legal action will be taken against individuals found submitting fake documents.
Those facing technical issues or seeking assistance with the online token system can reach out via the Government Information Centre at ‘1919’ or the Department’s Information Centre at ‘1962’.
Additionally, the department encourages public feedback on this pilot programme to refine and improve the service.
Balasooriya noted that the current stock of passports stands at 33,000 from a batch of 50,000, with a larger consignment of 750,000 passports expected by December.
To meet the high demand, the department will also implement a new procurement plan for additional passports, she added.
