The Ministry of Immigration in Fiji has announced plans to establish a new office in Nakasi, aimed at enhancing service delivery for residents across Tailevu and the Suva-Nausori corridor. Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto highlighted that this initiative will help alleviate the current workload at the Suva branch, responding to the growing needs of the community.
While the opening of the new office is not slated for this year, it underscores the government’s intention to improve accessibility and efficiency within immigration services. Naupoto also addressed concerns regarding passport availability, confirming that there is currently no shortage. Approximately 35,000 new passports are expected to arrive soon, with another 35,000 set for next month. An additional 100,000 passports have already been ordered for distribution throughout the coming year.
This announcement builds upon previous initiatives aimed at expanding passport services and reducing backlogs. In recent months, the government has broadened access to passport services by launching new offices across Labasa, Lautoka, and Nausori International Airport, enhancing convenience for applicants. Measures have included the introduction of an online application system, extended office hours, and increased staffing to manage the surge in demand effectively.
The commitment to modernization and efficient service delivery is evident in the government’s efforts to streamline processing times, with routine applications targeted to drop from about 15 working days to around 10, and urgent requests reduced from 3 to 2 working days. These improvements are expected not only to clear the existing backlog but also to establish a more reliable system moving forward.
Overall, the developments signify a positive trajectory for Fiji’s immigration services as the government remains dedicated to enhancing public accessibility and the overall travel experience for its citizens.