The Ministry of Immigration in Fiji has officially announced plans to open a new office in Nakasi, a move aimed at improving service delivery for residents in Tailevu and the Suva-Nausori corridor. Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto emphasized that this initiative is designed to ease the burden on the Suva branch, which has been experiencing an increased workload due to community demands.
Although the launch of the new office is not scheduled for this year, it reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and efficiency within immigration services. Minister Naupoto also reassured the public regarding passport availability, noting that there is currently no shortage. Approximately 35,000 new passports are expected to arrive shortly, with an additional 35,000 set for delivery in the following month. Moreover, a further order of 100,000 passports has been placed for distribution throughout the year.
This announcement follows previous efforts aimed at expanding passport services and minimizing backlogs. Recently, the government has worked to increase public access to passport services by establishing new offices in Labasa, Lautoka, and Nausori International Airport. These enhancements have included the implementation of an online application system, extended office hours, and additional staffing to effectively respond to the rising demand.
The government’s dedication to modernization and efficient service delivery is apparent in its initiatives to reduce processing times. Routine applications are targeted to decrease from approximately 15 working days to around 10, while urgent requests are expected to be expedited from 3 to just 2 working days. These advancements not only aim to clear the existing backlog but also to create a more reliable immigration system for the future.
Overall, these developments signify a positive trend in Fiji’s immigration services, as the government strives to improve public access and enhance the travel experience for its citizens. With an emphasis on efficiency and modernization, the Ministry of Immigration is proactively addressing community needs and expectations.