Who Can Renew an Irish Passport?
If you currently hold an Irish passport that is about to expire, has already expired, or was lost or damaged, you are eligible to renew it either online or by post.
You can renew your Irish passport if:
- You are over 18 years old (for adult passport renewals).
- You are a parent or legal guardian renewing a child’s passport.
- Your passport has expired or is expiring within 12 months.
Irish passport renewals are open to citizens living both in Ireland and abroad, including those residing in the UK, Europe, or elsewhere.
Online Passport Renewal vs. Postal Application
Most applicants now use the Passport Online Service, which is fast, secure, and convenient. However, postal renewals remain available for those unable to use the online system.
Passport Online Service
- Available for both adults and children.
- Accessible from Ireland and abroad.
- Faster than postal applications (usually within 10–15 working days).
Postal Application
- Best suited for applicants without internet access or digital photo capability.
- Processing typically takes 6–8 weeks.
- Requires physical forms and witnessed photographs.
Documents Needed to Renew Your Irish Passport
The required documents vary slightly depending on whether you apply online or by post.
For Online Renewal
- Current or expired passport number
- Digital passport photo (meeting Irish standards: plain background, neutral expression, taken within 6 months)
- Debit or credit card for payment
For Postal Application
- Passport Application Form
- APS 1: For applicants within Ireland
- APS 2: For applicants outside Ireland
- Two identical passport photos (one must be signed by an authorised witness such as a Garda, solicitor, or doctor)
- Payment via bank draft, cheque, or money order
Steps to Renew Your Irish Passport Online
The online process is the most efficient way to renew your Irish passport.
- Access the Official Website
Visit the Passport Online portal via the Department of Foreign Affairs website. - Select “Renew a Passport”
Choose whether you’re renewing for an adult or child. - Enter Your Details
Fill in your personal details, current passport information, and contact information. - Upload a Digital Photo
Ensure your photo meets Irish passport standards. Many pharmacies and photo centres provide online-compatible digital photos. - Pay the Fee Online
Use a debit or credit card to pay. Fees depend on passport type and size. - Submit and Track
Submit your application and note the tracking number for updates.
Fees for Irish Passport Renewal
| Type of Passport | Validity | Fee (Online) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Adult Passport | 10 years | €75 |
| Large Adult Passport (66 pages) | 10 years | €110 |
| Child Passport (under 3 years) | 5 years | €20 |
| Child Passport (aged 3–17) | 5 years | €30 |
Additional fees apply for express or priority services.
Applicants renewing from abroad should check the exact fee in local currency, as exchange rates may apply.
Processing Times for Irish Passport Renewal
Processing times depend on the method and location of your application:
- Online renewals (Ireland/UK): Approximately 10 working days
- Online renewals (Outside Ireland/UK): Around 15 working days
- Postal applications: Up to 8 weeks or longer, depending on the country and postal delays
Always renew well before planned travel, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and summer).
Renewing a Child’s Irish Passport
A child’s passport renewal must be completed by a parent or legal guardian.
For children under 18:
- Applications can be made online or by post.
- You’ll need the child’s current passport details, two recent photos, and a witnessed photo for postal applications.
- Both parents’ consent may be required, depending on circumstances.
Child passports are valid for five years and cannot use the express priority service.
Tracking Your Passport Renewal
Once submitted, you can track your renewal online through the Passport Tracking Service on the Department of Foreign Affairs website.
You’ll need your application number and date of birth to view the latest updates on your passport’s processing status.
Expedited Renewal Services
The Passport Express and Priority Appointment Service are available within Ireland for urgent renewals.
- These services offer faster processing, typically within 3–5 working days, but they come with additional fees.
- Priority renewal is not available for children or overseas applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How early can I renew my Irish passport?
You can renew your passport up to 12 months before expiry.
Do I need a witness for online passport renewal?
No witness is required for online renewals if you’re over 18. For postal applications, one photo must be witnessed.
How long will my passport be valid?
Adult passports are valid for 10 years, while child passports are valid for 5 years.
Can I renew my passport if it’s lost or damaged?
Yes. You can renew a lost, stolen, or damaged passport by providing additional details during the online process.
Can I travel while waiting for my passport renewal?
No. You must wait until your new passport is issued before travelling, as your current one will be cancelled once the renewal is processed.
Conclusion
Renewing your Irish passport in 2024 is quick, secure, and convenient — especially online. By gathering your documents early, submitting accurate information, and applying in advance, you can avoid travel disruptions and receive your new passport on time.
Whether applying from Ireland, the UK, or abroad, the Passport Online Service offers the fastest route to renewal with minimal paperwork and stress.
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