The Irish Passport Office has confirmed that over 85,000 passport applications from Northern Ireland, including a significant number from Fermanagh, have been processed this year without any delays or issues.

This announcement comes amidst concerns raised by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council regarding potential cross-Border postal mobility problems under the Windsor Framework.

The query, initiated by Ms. Alison McCullagh, Chief Executive of the Council, centred on whether recent regulatory changes would require custom clearance details for passport applications from Northern Ireland.

In her letter last month, Ms. McCullagh sought urgent clarification on whether this new requirement could impede the smooth processing of passport applications, particularly with the summer travel season underway.

Joe Hackett, Secretary General of the Irish Passport Office, responded, providing much-needed clarity.

“I can confirm that the Passport Service have not encountered any delays or issues with either the posting of these applications to our office in Dublin or the sending of passports to citizens in Northern Ireland,” he stated.

Mr. Hackett also confirmed that no custom clearance details are required, a conclusion reached after thorough consultations with their postal provider.

Mr. Hackett highlighted the high demand for Irish passports from Northern Ireland, with over 85,000 applications received this year alone.

This steady demand underscores the importance of efficient processing and reliable postal services.

“Demand for passports from Northern Ireland remains steady,” Mr. Hackett noted. 

He also underscored the role of the Passport Online service, which operates 24/7 and significantly reduces processing times—up to four times faster than traditional paper-based applications.

Currently, over 95 per cent of applicants from Northern Ireland use this online service, benefiting from its user-friendly and efficient system.

“Passport Online is available to all applicants, including those applying for their first passport,” Mr. Hackett said.

Additionally, the Irish Passport Service provides robust support through its Customer Service Hub, available via phone and webchat to assist Northern Ireland citizens.

For those in urgent need of passport renewals, the Dublin Passport Office offers an Urgent Appointment Service, allowing for one-day or four-day processing options.