The Ministry of Immigration in Fiji has seen a significant surge in passport applications, leading to the issuance of over 40,000 passports this year alone, with expectations for further growth. Permanent Secretary Aliki Salusalu highlighted that while they have processed a substantial number of passports, there remains a backlog due to the growing demand, which has outstripped the previous annual maximum that typically hovered around 40,000.
The increasing interest among Fijians traveling abroad for various reasons—including work, education, medical needs, and leisure—has resulted in operational adjustments within the department. Earlier in the year, the ministry closed walk-in passport application services, except for emergencies, to focus on reducing backlogs, successfully issuing 10,000 passports within a seven-week period alone.
As the department strives to streamline processing, it is currently limiting online appointment slots to 30 per day due to the overwhelming volume of requests. Salusalu stated that once additional passport stocks arrive, there will be an opportunity to expand appointment availability. The Ministry anticipates that another shipment of 30,000 passports will arrive by January next year, which is seen as a positive step towards alleviating the ongoing situation.
Past reports have indicated that a total of 100,000 new passports have been ordered to address shortages and meet growing demands. Minister Viliame Naupoto has reassured the public that steps are being taken to enhance accessibility, including the potential opening of a new office in Nakasi to service residents in surrounding areas, relieving some pressure on the Suva office.
Overall, these developments reflect a commitment from the Fijian government to enhance passport services, aiming to restore public confidence and ensure that all Fijians have timely access to travel documents. As the immigration department works diligently to address backlogs and adapt to soaring demand, there is cautious optimism that these improvements will provide a more efficient passport application experience moving forward.