Renewing passports: how long will it take and what your options are

Everything you need to know.

Renewing your passport is one of those jobs that always comes at the absolute worst time - just as you’re about to jet off on holidays. Yes, the mild panic sets in as you try and figure out what the hell you’re meant to do, but it’s not as stressful as you might think. Here’s the full run through of everything you need to do.   Forms you need: APS 1E for those living in Ireland which can be obtained from any Garda station, post office and the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork. APS 2E for those living in Northern Ireland which can be obtained from many post offices.   Passport pictures: Poor quality pictures are the main reason passport applications are rejected so make sure you’re meeting the requirements. Include four identical photos, no more than six months old with the passport application and get the witness for your application to write the form number (found on Section Nine of the application) on the back of two of your four photos. They must also sign and stamp the back of those two photos. Witnessing in Ireland: A Garda at your local Garda station will witness your passport application form; as long as they are satisfied as to your identity and that your four photos are a true likeness of you. Make sure you bring photo identification with you and be aware that the Garda may ask you for more proof of identification.   Witnessing in Northern Ireland: A member of one of the professions listed on the Department of Foreign Affair’s website can witness your passport application form as long as they are satisfied as to your identity and that your four photos are a true likeness of you. Again, make sure you bring photo identification with you and be aware that the witness may ask you for more proof of identification – this is at their discretion.   Supporting documents: Make sure to include those four passport pictures and your most recent Irish Passport with your application. A photocopy of the main page of your passport will do if your passport has expired or has less than 12 month’s validity remaining. Submitting your application: It is recommended that you use Passport Express when sending off your application. It’s the easiest, quickest and cheapest way to get that new passport. The service is offered in more than 1,000 An Post offices and 70 post offices in Northern Ireland. However, if you are travelling in less than three weeks, it is recommended that you submit your application directly at the public counter at the Passport Office in Dublin or Cork.   How much does it all cost: A standard 10-year passport is €80 while a large 66-page 10-year passport is €110. The fee for applying at a Passport Office is higher so a standard 10-year passport would set you back €95 in comparison to the €80 cost and €9 post office charge.   How long will it take to get my new passport: Once there are no issues with your application and if you're applying online, you should receive your new passport within 10 working days from the time the application is received and you can track your new passport through the 11-digit barcode on the post office receipt you received. But it is recommended to allow a few days for postage. However, people not applying online should double check turnaround times on the passport office website before sending their application as the information is listed there. It is recommended you allow six weeks for your new passport to arrive. If you receive your passport within three to five working days, you will have to pay an urgent fee of €55. What about emergency passports: In a situation where you need a passport that same day, they can issue your passport on the day. Additionally, a Pilot Rapid Renewal service has been introduced in the Passport Office in Knockmaun House, 42-47, Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2. This will facilitate, where possible and by appointment only, the renewal of a passport for an adult or child travelling in less than 3 working days. This service is available only through the Dublin office. A first-time Adult or Child applicant cannot avail of this service. If you wish to make an appointment for the Rapid Renewal Passport Service, click here.