Fijians to apply for passports online under new system by May

Fijians will soon save themselves from the hassle of travelling to an immigration office to apply for a passport as Government upgrades the country’s passport system to allow online applications.

Minister for Immigration Viliame Naupoto told Parliament the upgrade would allow people to complete passport enrolment from anywhere.

"Our passport system is undergoing a major upgrade. This is the first upgrade since acquiring this passport system in 2019. It is a little overdue, but it is being done now. This upgrade, when completed, will significantly improve the quality and efficiency of our passport service delivery to the public," Mr Naupoto said.

“Individuals will be able to complete their passport enrolment online, wherever they are, even from the comfort of their homes," he said.

"We will make announcements when the upgrade is completed, and our target is by the end of May 2026."

He said only first-time applicants would need to visit an Immigration Office for biometric capture.

“Only first-time passport applicants will be required to book an appointment date, to visit the nearest Immigration Office for their biometric capture.”

The upgrade aims to improve convenience and reduce waiting times for the public.

“This will certainly reduce waiting times, improve efficiency and provide greater convenience to our citizens.”

Naupoto said the Ministry aims to complete the upgrade by the end of May 2026.

Passport renewals to become faster under new system

Passport renewals will soon require fewer visits to Immigration offices once the new passport system upgrade is completed.

Mr Naupoto said the changes would streamline the renewal process.

“So, for passport renewals, you will only visit an Immigration Office to collect your new passport.”

He said the upgrade would significantly improve service delivery.

“This upgrade, when completed, will significantly improve the quality and efficiency of our passport service delivery to the public.”

The new system is the first major upgrade since the current passport platform was introduced in 2019.

“This is the first upgrade since acquiring this passport system in 2019.”