Minister Helen McEntee reminder to renew passports in plenty of time
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, has urged anyone planning to travel in the near future to check that their passports are up to date.
The Irish Passport Service has issued more than a quarter of a million passports so far in 2026, and the demand continues to grow ahead of the busy summer travel period.
Earlier this year, the Passport Service launched its 2026 ‘Don’t Be that Person‘ digital campaign, highlighting the ease and convenience of Passport Online.
Minister Helen McEntee – PA Photo. Photo credit: Cate McCurry/PA Wire
Minister McEntee, along with Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, and Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, is advising citizens to check if their passport is still in date, renew it online if needed, and prepare early for any upcoming travel.
Minister McEntee is encouraging anyone planning trips, especially those with children, to apply for their passport well in advance of their flight date.
The Minister said, ‘As we look forward to our summer holidays, it is vital to check that your passport is valid as soon as possible. As a parent, I understand how much preparation goes into organising travel with children, and ensuring your family’s passports are up to date avoids last-minute stress.’
Remember too that some countries require that your passport has at least six months left before it expires, not on your arrival date to your destination, but to your departure date from there.
Pic: Getty Images
‘Many parents may not realize that Passport Online can be used to apply for passports for children of all ages, including newborn babies. Families can ensure a smooth start to their holidays by using Passport Online.’
Commenting on the passport renewal campaign, Minister Byrne said: ‘I encourage all Irish citizens who are due to travel, to check their passport is in date, and to apply online.’
Whether travelling to Europe or further afield, Passport Online is the fastest, most straightforward, and cost-effective way, to apply for your passport, saving you time to plan your trip.
‘Online applications can be completed and submitted in less than 10 minutes, and you can apply from anywhere in the world. Over 96% of applicants, both renewal and first-time applicants, now use Passport Online to apply for their passport.’
Pic: Getty Images
Minister Richmond encouraged citizens to have everything in order well ahead of their travel date. The Minister said: ‘For child renewal and first-time applications, processing times may be longer than standard adult renewals. Our advice is to ensure your documentation is prepared in advance. When applications are complete, the Passport Service can process and issue passports quickly and efficiently.’
‘To avoid disruption to your holiday plans, send your supporting documents as soon as you complete your online application. Processing times begin only once the Passport Service has received all required documentation.’
For more information on how to apply for a passport online, visit Ireland.ie/PassportOnline.
