Irish Passport Service Ends Paper Applications
As of 1 December 2025, the Irish Passport Service no longer accepts traditional green paper passport application forms (APS1/APS2) for most applications.
This marks a significant shift in how Irish citizens apply for one of the most important travel documents — moving fully into the digital age and encouraging applicants to use Passport Online for both renewals and first-time applications.
Why Paper Applications Are Being Phased Out
The Department of Foreign Affairs has been steadily modernising the passport service for some time. Online applications are faster to process, reduce errors, and are more efficient for both applicants and Passport Service staff. The phase-out of the old green forms is part of this broader digital transformation.
The official passport pages now direct applicants to Passport Online as the primary and preferred method for applying.
What This Change Means for You
Here’s how the update affects passport applicants:
✅ Online applications are now standard — nearly all passport services are completed through the Passport Online system.
❌ Traditional APS1/APS2 forms no longer accepted — the old green APS forms are obsolete since December 2025.
While paper forms are no longer used as a standard route, if you really cannot apply online due to accessibility issues, contacting the Passport Service or a local Irish embassy/consulate might provide alternate support.
Benefits of Applying Online
Moving to online applications brings real advantages:
✨ Faster processing times — online submissions are generally processed quicker than postal applications.
📲 Real-time tracking — you can check your application status online and see updates as they happen.
🧾 Easier to correct errors — the online form helps prevent simple mistakes that can delay applications.
Passport Photos Matter More Than Ever
One of the most common reasons applications are delayed or rejected is incorrect passport photos. With Passport Online, uploading a compliant digital photo is mandatory.
That’s where Photo-ME comes in. We provide officially approved Irish passport photos that meet all Department of Foreign Affairs standards.
How Photo-ME Makes Online Applications Easy
- ✅ Instant approval against DFA photo standards
- ✅ Receive a unique online photo code
- ✅ Enter this code directly into your Passport Online application
- ✅ Avoid rejections or delays caused by incorrect photos
With this online photo code, your approved Photo-ME passport photo links seamlessly to your application, saving time and reducing stress.
Tips for a Smooth Passport Application
- 1. Apply well in advance of travel plans
- 2 . Use Photo-ME approved photos to avoid rejection
- 3. Keep your online photo code handy when completing Passport Online
Paper Application Options:
While most applications must now be made online, controlled paper application routes are still available. The new APS1E form (and APS2E in the UK) is not a universal choice for all applicants — it is only available through authorised postal services. A form should be requested from the DFA Passport Assist team at 01 613 1795 to generate an application form.
- 1. Residents in the Republic of Ireland can apply via the Post Passport service using APS1E.
- 2. Residents in Northern Ireland or Great Britain can apply via Passport Express using APS2E.
⚠️ Important: These paper routes are controlled and may take longer to process than online applications. Simply mailing a paper form through regular post will not be accepted.
By combining Passport Online with Photo-ME approved photos, Irish citizens can now enjoy a completely digital, reliable, and stress-free passport application process.