Changes in procedures for passport issuing

A new draft bill regarding the procedures and necessary documentation by citizens for the issuing of a new passport is currently under public consultation.

According to the new proposals, the procedures for applying for a new passport will involve two witnesses and the use of a person’s social security number and tax file number instead of their police ID.

The Interior Ministry aims to streamline the procedures by taking advantage of its online state services and the ability to cross reference citizens’ personal information.

The plan also aims to minimise the amount of time needed for someone to receive a passport as all cross checking and identification verification will happen online and in real time.