Faulty Software Update Leaves Thousands Of New Passports At Risk Of Travel Problems

Friday, 9 January 2026 15:11

By Martin Osborne

Holders are being urged to check the date of issue on the data page of their passport.

The Passport Service has confirmed that thousands of passports issued over a two-week period are affected by a technical fault and may not be fully compliant with international travel standards.

Almost 13,000 passports issued between December 23rd 2025 and January 6th 2026 could cause problems at airport eGates and at border control when travelling abroad.

The issue arose due to a software update, and the Passport Service says it has now alerted border authorities worldwide.

The letters IRL are missing from the documents and may not be acceptable at border control.

Holders are being urged to check the date of issue on the data page of their passport.

Anyone affected does not need to submit a new application.

Instead, passport holders should return their passport book - and passport card if applicable - to the Passport Service in Dublin.

A replacement passport will be issued within a maximum of 10 working days.

People travelling imminently, or those living overseas, are being advised to contact the Passport Service directly for guidance and support.

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