Sri Lanka is taking significant steps to resolve the passport shortage that has caused long delays and frustrations for applicants in recent months. On Saturday, the country received 7,500 new passports, with an additional 42,000 expected to arrive today, bringing the total to 50,000 passports this week.
Government’s Plan to Ease the Passport Shortage
The government is actively working to address the backlog caused by the passport shortage, which has led to long queues and delays for those applying for new passports. In response, the Cabinet Spokesman and Public Security Minister, Vijitha Herath, announced a plan to import another 100,000 passports next month. This large shipment is part of a broader effort to clear the backlog and reduce the waiting times for applicants.
Minister Herath highlighted that this batch of 100,000 passports will be part of a larger consignment of 750,000, which is expected to significantly improve the situation. By increasing the supply of passports, the government aims to return to issuing around 3,000 to 3,500 passports daily, which was the norm before the shortage.
Addressing the Passport Backlog
Minister Herath emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the passport issue quickly. “We resolved the visa crisis immediately, and within 28 days of assuming office, we have also managed to address the passport issue,” he said during the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing.
With the new shipment of passports, the Department of Immigration and Emigration will be able to process applications much faster, allowing applicants to receive their passports in a more timely manner.
Multiple Ways to Apply for Passports
To further streamline the passport application process, the government has made it easier for people to apply for passports through various channels. Minister Herath explained that there are several ways to apply for a passport, including:
- One-day service: For those who need their passport urgently, the one-day service is available.
- Regular service: Applicants who choose the regular service will receive their passports within a few days.
- Provincial and district offices: To make the process more convenient, passport distribution has been decentralized, allowing people to apply at provincial and district levels.
This decentralized approach is expected to further reduce the pressure on central offices and help applicants receive their passports more quickly.
Long-term Plans to Prevent Future Shortages
The government’s decision to import such a large quantity of passports is part of a long-term strategy to prevent future shortages. By securing a consignment of 750,000 passports, the government aims to ensure that there is an adequate supply for the foreseeable future. This proactive approach will help avoid the long queues and delays that have affected applicants in recent months.
Minister Herath reassured the public that with the upcoming shipment of 100,000 passports, the situation will improve significantly, allowing the Department of Immigration and Emigration to keep up with the demand.
Conclusion
The recent steps taken by the Sri Lankan government to address the passport shortage are a welcome relief for many citizens. With 50,000 passports arriving this week and another 100,000 expected next month, the backlog should soon be cleared, allowing applicants to receive their passports without the long wait times that have become all too common in recent months.
By decentralizing the passport application process and ensuring a steady supply of passports, the government is demonstrating its commitment to resolving this issue. With these efforts, the Department of Immigration and Emigration is expected to return to normal passport issuance rates, providing a smoother and faster service for all applicants.
These improvements will not only ease the frustration of those waiting for passports but also help restore public confidence in the country’s immigration services.
