Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala announced that approximately 50,000 passport applications submitted from overseas have now been successfully processed and issued.
Speaking to the media, Minister Wijepala revealed that a total of 175,000 passport applications have been received so far this year, with 50,000 originating from Sri Lankans living abroad and 125,000 from applicants within the country.
The minister noted that around 4,000 passports are currently being issued each day through the Department of Immigration and Emigration’s 24-hour expedited service. However, he indicated that the department is considering discontinuing its night service within the next month, citing operational adjustments.
To ensure uninterrupted processing, Minister Wijepala confirmed that all raw materials required for passport printing have already been secured, with supplies expected to last until December 2025.
In a significant development, the minister also announced that the issuance of e-passports is scheduled to begin in December. The move is expected to modernize the current passport system and improve efficiency, security, and global recognition of Sri Lankan passports.
