The Fiji Immigration Department is set to receive approximately 70,000 new passport booklets before the year’s end, with Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto expressing confidence that there will be no shortage of passports. The first batch of 35,000 passports is scheduled to arrive on November 10, with an additional 35,000 expected in December. In light of these shipments, Naupoto reassured citizens that the government has already placed an order for a total of 100,000 new passports to further alleviate the ongoing demand.
To address the rising volume of applications and the challenges at its main office in Suva, the Immigration Department is planning to open a new branch in Nakasi. This office is expected to cater to residents from nearby areas including Tailevu, Davuilevu, and Nausori, helping to alleviate the congestion experienced at the Suva location. Naupoto noted that the new office will be located in the CJ building, emphasizing that this expansion aims to improve service accessibility without fully relocating from the current site.
In addition to managing stock levels, the Immigration Department is actively working to reduce appointment wait times for passport applications, which have been extended into next year due to high demand. Naupoto highlighted the introduction of an online booking system designed to help manage crowding at the Suva office, which offered limited waiting space. To help clear the backlog, the Minister mentioned the possibility of reopening walk-in services after hours, although funding for overtime will need to be secured.
The situation surrounding the passport backlog has drawn attention as citizens cope with delays in obtaining travel documents. Prior reports from the department indicate that significant steps have been taken recently to combat these delays, including the arrival of new passport stocks with enhanced security features. With proactive measures in place, such as the planned increase in passport availability and extended office hours, the Immigration Department aims to create a more efficient process, ultimately enhancing public confidence in the immigration system.
These developments signify a commitment to improving services and providing better access to passports for Fijians, especially in a time when a rise in global travel demands effective immigration solutions. As the department strives to meet the needs of its citizens, hope is on the horizon for a smoother and more responsive passport application experience.
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