Government Launches Campaign Urging Irish Families to Renew Passports Early

The Department of Foreign Affairs has launched its 2026 passport awareness campaign, encouraging the public to check passport validity and apply online well ahead of planned travel.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee launched the "Don't Be That Person" campaign on 26 December, with a particular focus this year on informing parents that both first-time and renewal applications for babies and children can be completed through the Passport Online service.

The digital campaign comes as families across Ireland, including in Cork, begin planning summer holidays and travel for the year ahead. The Passport Service reported that 93% of all applicants chose Passport Online in 2025, highlighting the popularity of the digital platform.

Minister McEntee said:

"As people begin planning holidays, family trips, and work travel for the year ahead, it's vital to check the validity of your passport as you make your preparations. A simple check today can prevent unnecessary stress closer to your travel date."

The Minister, who has young children herself, emphasised the importance of early planning for families.

Minister McEntee added:

"As a parent of young children myself, I know the organisation that goes into planning a family holiday. For parents planning to travel with children, particularly their first holiday, applying online and early is key. Passport Online makes this process straightforward and applying well in advance of travel ensures a smooth start to your holiday."

Passport Online supports renewals, first-time applications, and applications for newborns and children. The service is described as the quickest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for Irish citizens both at home and abroad to apply for their passport.

The platform is accessible worldwide and allows applicants to complete the entire process digitally, avoiding the need for postal applications or in-person visits.

For further information or to apply for a passport online, visit www.Ireland.ie/PassportOnline.