Passport queues expected to persist into New Year

The passport crisis is expected to persist into the New Year, as the current stock will only last until mid-2025, with the government still unable to secure tenders for new P-series passports.

The previous government’s plan to introduce ePassport has been delayed due to a court challenge by losing bidder Epic Lanka against the tender awarded to Thales DIS Finland OY and Just in Time Technologies (Pvt) Ltd.

Initially, the ePassport were set to roll out starting 1st of January 2025, but the ongoing legal dispute has hindered progress.

Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala stated that the government is considering awarding a fresh tender for P-series passports, despite the legal battle surrounding ePassport.

The government is awaiting recommendations from a Cabinet-appointed committee to address the crisis and decide how to proceed with issuing new passports during the court case.

The demand for passports has surged, particularly among Sri Lankans seeking overseas employment and those involved in international online trading.

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