June 29, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Immigration and Emigration has issued a firm reminder to the public, cautioning against engaging third parties or brokers in attempts to hasten passport-related services.
The department has emphasised that such unofficial arrangements not only undermine the integrity of the system but also place individuals at risk of being exploited.
According to an official communication, all financial transactions relating to passport applications must be carried out solely at the designated Shroff counter within the department premises.
Applicants will be provided with a government-issued receipt for every payment made, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The notice also reiterated that passports must be collected exclusively from the official issuing counter, and not via any intermediaries or informal channels. Officials stressed that bypassing these procedures could result in delays or even the invalidation of one’s application.
The department has called on the public to act responsibly and to avoid falling prey to unscrupulous individuals who promise expedited services in exchange for money. Such promises are not only misleading but also disrupt the orderly function of the system.
This appeal comes in the wake of increasing concerns over the presence of self-styled agents operating near immigration offices, often targeting vulnerable applicants with limited understanding of the official process.
