Fiji’s passport services are expanding to three new locations as part of a push to cut queues and improve access for travellers. Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto told Parliament that passport services will be opened in Labasa, Lautoka, and at Nausori International Airport, with the goal of easing the burden on the Suva passport office and making it easier for people to apply for or renew their passports.
The upgrades will come with new technology, including the introduction of an online passport application system designed to speed up the process. The government emphasised its commitment to making services more accessible for citizens across the country.
Context and related developments
– In recent weeks, authorities have moved to clear a growing backlog by extending passport office hours to 8 PM to accommodate more applicants, alongside a surge of passport book deliveries to boost stock levels. The government has indicated aims to complete outstanding applications in the near term and restore normal processing times.
– Processing times have been targeted for improvement, with routine applications expected to drop from about 15 working days to around 10, and urgent requests from 3 to 2 working days. A substantial budget has been allocated for additional passport books to prevent future shortages.
– Broader modernization efforts are underway, including steps to enhance border security and efficiency through new systems and potential international travel facilitation, such as advanced passenger information and border processing improvements. There are also ongoing discussions about extending similar travel conveniences with other partner countries, including Australia and New Zealand, following positive signals about Fiji’s passport security standards.
Outlook
The expansion to Labasa, Lautoka, and Nausori International Airport, paired with an online application system, signals a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s immigration services. By increasing access points and leveraging technology, the government aims to deliver quicker, more reliable service and restore public confidence in obtaining travel documents.
Summary
The move to broaden passport access points, together with ongoing backlog reduction efforts and digital upgrades, represents a coordinated push to streamline Fiji’s passport services and improve the travel experience for citizens nationwide.
Leave a comment