Immigration Dept announces new passport application process

July 18, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Immigration and Emigration has introduced a new, streamlined process for applying for passports, effective from yesterday (17).

As part of this new system, applicants must complete prior registration through the provided link: https://www.immigration.gov.lk.

After registration, applicants will be given priority access to obtain their passports, applicable for both standard and one-day services.

The following details outline the new methodology introduced by the Department:

1. From 1 January 2025, Sri Lankans will have access to new, efficient, and secure e-passports. To facilitate this, a new application process has been implemented starting 16 July 2024.
2. Applicants must register in advance using the specified link. This new process commenced on 19 July 2024 for registrations made on 16 July 2024, and will remain effective until 18 July 2024.
3. After registration, priority will be given to applicants for passport issuance.
4. Both existing passport holders and new applicants can register for passport services. Priority will be given based on:
   • Current possession of a valid passport.
   • Validity period of the current passport being less than six months.
   • Urgent need for the passport for imminent foreign travel.
5. Required documents for registration include:
   • A valid National Identity Card (one per applicant, including children under 16).
   • A valid mobile phone number (one number can be used for up to two registrations).
6. Applicants meeting the above criteria can visit the website and complete registration after obtaining a photograph receipt from an approved photo studio.
7. Successful registrations will be notified via SMS, including a date for application submission. It is mandatory to visit the designated office before noon on the assigned date.
8. The prior registration process is valid for both one-day and normal services.
9. Current passport holders can continue to use their passports until they switch to the e-passport, provided there are blank visa pages available.
10. Passports cannot be obtained without an assigned date and time.

For further details and to complete the registration process, visit the Department’s official website.