1. 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 can renew it online or by post. You’re eligible for renewal if:
- You are over 18 years of age for an adult passport renewal.
- You’re renewing a child’s passport and are the parent or legal guardian.
- Your passport has expired or is expiring soon (you can renew up to 12 months before expiration).
2. Online Passport Renewal vs. Postal Application
Most Irish citizens can renew their passport online via the Passport Online Service, which is fast and convenient. Postal applications are still available for those who prefer or require it, though online applications generally have faster processing times.
- Passport Online Service: Available for both adult and child renewals in Ireland and abroad.
- Postal Application: Suitable for those who may not be able to use the online service, though it has longer processing times.
3. Documents Needed to Renew Your Irish Passport
The documents you need depend on your renewal method:
For Online Renewal:
- Current Passport Number: Information from your existing or expired passport.
- Digital Passport Photo: Must meet Irish passport photo standards (clear background, neutral expression).
- Payment Method: Credit or debit card for online payment.
For Postal Application:
- Passport Application Form (APS 1 or APS 2): APS 1 for applications within Ireland; APS 2 for those abroad.
- Two Passport Photos: One photo must be signed by a witness (e.g., Garda, solicitor, doctor).
- Passport Fee Payment: Check, money order, or bank draft if applying by post.
4. Steps to Renew Your Irish Passport Online
The online renewal process is quick and secure, ideal for most Irish citizens.
- Access Passport Online: Visit the official Passport Online website and select “Renew a Passport.”
- Enter Personal Information: Complete fields for your personal details, current passport information, and contact details.
- Upload Digital Passport Photo: Ensure your photo meets the standards and is taken within the last six months.
- Pay the Application Fee: Use a debit or credit card to pay the fee (fees vary by passport type).
- Submit and Track Application: Submit your application and note the tracking number for updates.
5. Fees for Irish Passport Renewal
Renewal fees depend on the type and duration of the passport:
- Standard 10-Year Adult Passport: €75
- Large 10-Year Adult Passport (66 pages): €110
- 5-Year Child Passport: €20 if under 3 years, €30 if aged 3–17
Additional charges may apply if using a priority service, and fees can vary slightly if applying from abroad due to currency exchange rates.
6. Processing Times for Irish Passport Renewal
Processing times vary based on your location and method of application:
- Online Renewal (Ireland and UK): Approximately 10 working days.
- Online Renewal (Outside Ireland/UK): Around 15 working days.
- Postal Applications: Processing can take up to 8 weeks or longer, depending on the country.
It’s advisable to renew well in advance of any planned travel, as processing times can extend during peak periods.
7. Renewing a Child’s Irish Passport
Parents or guardians can renew a child’s passport online or via post. The child’s current passport details, two recent passport photos, and one witnessed photo are required. Children under 18 cannot renew on their own, and applications require a parent or guardian’s signature.
8. Tracking Your Passport Renewal
After applying, you can track your passport renewal status online. The Passport Office will provide a tracking number with your confirmation, allowing you to check updates through their tracking portal.
9. Expedited Renewal Services
Priority services are available for passport renewals within Ireland under certain circumstances. Expedited service fees apply, and the priority option is not available for child renewals or for those renewing abroad.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How early can I renew my Irish passport?
A: You can renew up to 12 months before your passport expires.
Q2: Do I need a witness for online passport renewal?
A: No witness is required for online renewals if you’re over 18. For postal renewals, one photo needs to be signed by a witness.
Q3: How long will my passport be valid?
A: Adult passports are valid for 10 years, while child passports are valid for 5 years.
Q4: Can I renew my passport if it’s lost or damaged?
A: Yes, you can renew a lost or damaged passport by providing additional information during the application.
Q5: Can I travel while waiting for my passport renewal?
A: No, your passport must be submitted with your application, so you should wait until you receive the new passport.