The Department of Immigration and Emigration has announced the launch of a new online appointment system for passport applications, starting from tomorrow. This system is designed to streamline the application process, minimize waiting times, and reduce the daily crowds at the department’s offices. Acting Controller General Nilusha Balasooriya led a media briefing on the initiative, sharing details about the new system’s features and benefits.
A System Built for Efficiency and Accessibility
With the updated system, up to 1,200 appointments will be available daily. However, all November slots have already been booked due to high demand, and appointments are now open for December onward. According to Balasooriya, the system is accessible 24/7 through the Department’s official website. Designed with a user-friendly interface, the platform offers improved bandwidth and enhanced security, ensuring smoother and safer transactions for applicants.
“This new system aims to end the long queues that have become the norm,” said Balasooriya confidently. She also emphasized that the Department is committed to making passport services more accessible, encouraging the public to use this new system to book appointments at their convenience.
Curbing Unauthorized Third-Party Involvement
One significant benefit of the new system is its ability to prevent unauthorized third parties from profiting off of applicants. In the past, some people charged fees to help others navigate the system, often exploiting those less familiar with digital processes. Balasooriya advised the public to avoid these third-party services, noting that assistance is readily available. Those needing help with the appointment system can reach out to the Government Information Centre at 1919 or contact the Department’s Information Centre at 1962 for direct support.
Successful Testing and Confidential Development Process
The Department implemented a two-week pilot test before launching the system, aimed at gauging its effectiveness and user experience. This testing phase allowed officials to address potential issues and ensure the platform could handle the expected traffic. When asked about the company behind the system’s development, Balasooriya refrained from providing specifics, stating that the Department is solely responsible for the platform’s operations.
Emergency Passport Processing with New Review Process
While the system allows for regular appointments, emergency passport requests will still be processed, albeit through a more stringent procedure. Applicants seeking an emergency passport must first secure an online appointment. Following this, their cases will be reviewed by an independent committee. This committee includes representatives from the Public Security Ministry, Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka Police, and the Sri Lanka Army. Balasooriya highlighted that any applicant found attempting to fast-track their application with forged documents will face legal consequences.
Current Passport Capacity and Upcoming Shipments
The Department currently processes up to 1,200 passport applications daily, but demand remains high. Balasooriya revealed that the Department has 33,000 blank passports in stock, part of a recent batch of 50,000. Two additional shipments are expected to arrive mid-November and mid-December, adding 700,000 more passports to the inventory, which should alleviate some of the supply pressures.
While emergency passport applications are fulfilled on the same day, standard applications require about a month to process. Balasooriya acknowledged that the extended processing times are partly due to decisions made by the previous administration, which impacted the department’s efficiency.
Ongoing Forensic Audit on Past Administration’s Decisions
In response to public queries about delays and inefficiencies, Balasooriya disclosed that a forensic audit is underway to examine the past administration’s role in the current backlog. Legal proceedings are also in progress to address decisions related to passport procurement that have complicated the department’s operations. According to her, much of the Department’s recent efforts have focused on managing legal challenges tied to these earlier decisions.
The new online appointment system marks a significant step toward improved public services at the Department of Immigration and Emigration. By easing application procedures, enhancing security, and addressing past inefficiencies, the department aims to offer a more reliable and user-friendly passport service to citizens across the country.
