It was reported earlier this year that a number of residents were having problems getting passports issued, with some experiencing delays of up to two months.
While passport deliveries were delayed, patients in need of immediate medical attention overseas, students applying to foreign universities, and persons seeking work visas were the ones who benefited.
Many applicants said that they were unsuccessfully waiting months for their passports even after paying “urgent” fees for faster service. Many people’s irritation and fear were heightened by the protracted delays, underscoring the urgent need for speed and reform in the passport issuance procedure.
The passport issuing process, which was expected to take 21 working days for the delivery of the document to the applicant, was the subject of public criticism.
