ePassports

From 16 October 2006 the Passport Office began issuing the new electronic passport (ePassport). Previous issued passports can be used for worldwide travel until they expire.

An ePassport is the same as a traditional passport with the addition of an integrated chip that is embedded in the photo page. The chip will securely store the digital facial image and personal details of the passport holder as they appear on the data page and can be read electronically at border controls.

In order to generate the digital facial image for the microchip it is essential that the photograph submitted with the application meet the Passport Office photo guidelines.

These guidelines are based on internationally accepted standards and are available on www. passport. ie On Line Tracking You may track the progress of your application on our website www. passport. ie by entering your eleven digit application number Passport application forms are available from all Garda Stations, most Post Offices, Libraries, Citizens Advice Centres and the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork. It is not currently possible to download the application forms from our website but you can request the forms online. More information is also available on our website www. passport. ie.

Care of your Passport

Your passport is a valuable document and should be treated with care. Should your passport become damaged you should apply for a new passport as you may encounter problems when travelling with a damaged passport.

Passport Office March2007