The Ministry of Immigration has confirmed the arrival of 30,000 new passport books, now received at its Suva headquarters.
This is part of an order of 100,000 books from its supplier in Germany, with the remaining 70,000 expected over the coming months.
“This first batch will allow us to resume printing passports for those whose applications have been on hold,” said Permanent Secretary for Immigration, Aliki Salusalu.
“We have also commenced the process of ordering another 100,000 books to ensure supply continuity.”
The new passports are equipped with an upgraded electronic chip meeting the latest International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.
Each now has 32 pages, compared to the 64 pages in the previous version.
“Printing has now started for applications lodged between January 6 and August 2, 2025, which were delayed due to the shortage.”
“A total of 3,000 passports will be ready for collection from Monday, August 11.”
Collection will run from 9:00am to 7:00pm, Monday to Friday.
Mr Salusalu urged the public to follow the official schedule.
“This is to assist in the orderly collection of passport books and reduce unnecessary congestion at the office,” he said.
Applicants with confirmed online appointments are not affected and should visit their respective Immigration Offices on their scheduled date and time.
For those unable to secure an online booking, manual applications will be accepted from 4:00pm to 8:00pm for walk-in customers.