Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 October 2024
100. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will examine an issue regarding the issuing of an Irish passport under a name legally changed by deed poll and where proof of usage for two years is not available, as specifically prescribed by Section 10(5) of the Passports Act 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41274/24]
View answerAll passport applications are subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008, as amended (“the Act“). The Act provides a legal basis for the various policies and procedures that are applied by the Passport Service in the issuing of passports.
The Passport Service cannot offer definitive advice in the absence of a specific passport application. Speaking in general terms, Section 10 of the Act provides that a passport will issue in the name of a citizen as it appears on a person's birth certificate or naturalisation certificate. However, a name change for a passport from that which appears on a person's birth certificate is permitted under the Act in situations such as marriage, civil partnership etc., where civil or legal documents are available to verify this change.
In cases where a name change arises, other than by marriage or civil partnership etc., the Passport Service requires evidence in respect of the constant and sustained use of the new name and identity over a two year period. Evidence of this, for at least two years, through documentation such as photo ID, bills, bank statements, and official correspondence in the new name is required as a deed poll is not adequate evidence of the constant use of a new name.
Applicants who wish to have their birth certificate name added as an observation on their passport can do so.
Further details on what is required to facilitate a name change and/or an observation on a passport is available on my Department's website here - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/documentary-requirements/adult
This policy seeks to protect the integrity and security of the Irish passport against identity fraud, while at the same time balancing the wishes of those citizens, who may wish to change their name for a variety of reasons. The Irish passport has a strong international reputation due to the strength of the security features within the passport book and the robust processes involved in its issuance. The Irish passport currently ranks third in the Henley Global Passport Index as it provides our citizens with visa-free access to 191 countries.
