The Sri Lankan government has accelerated the issuance of passports, providing an additional 250 daily to facilitate pilgrims ahead of the Hajj season in June, Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala informed parliament this week.
“We are issuing passports for Dabadiwa and Hajj pilgrims ahead of the season; for that, we are issuing 250 passports daily,” said Wijepala.
However, the passport crisis, exacerbated by the online application system, has continued to create prolonged delays between application appointments and issuance. The minister highlighted the extent of the backlog, stating, “For example, if we try to make an appointment today through the online portal, we would be getting June 27 as the appointment date.”
Under the normal system, passports are issued a month after the appointment date. A one-day service is available for urgent requirements, Wijepala noted.
The Department of Immigration and Emigration has been issuing an average of 2,900 passports daily, but the overwhelming demand has posed significant challenges. Addressing emergencies, Wijepala explained, “A committee has been established on the premises. You can come to the committee and present your urgent need for a passport, and get your passport the same day.”
The minister underscored the government's commitment to managing the passport crisis effectively while ensuring the timely processing of applications for pilgrims and other citizens in need.
