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.

Clane Law Student Charged In Connection With Intercepted Bomb Appears In Monaghan Court
Mary's Meals Volunteers Begin Week-Long Fundraising Walk Through Kildare
Kfm Obituary Notices
Former Kill Resident to Represent Ireland at British Transplant Games
Naas Parklet To Be Moved Again After Costing Over €50,000
Kildare School Library Shortlisted For National Age Friendly Award
Castletown House To Host Local Banner Exhibition As Part Of The EU Presidency Cultural Programme
Naas Residents Call For Second Data Centre Site To Be Rezoned