Minister McEntee launches 2026 Passport Renewal Campaign
- Published on: 27 December 2025
- Last updated on: 27 December 2025
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, has launched the Passport Service’s 2026 information and awareness campaign – Don’t Be That Person. The campaign encourages the public to check their passport validity before making travel plans and to apply for their passport online well in advance of their departure.
Passport Online remains the quickest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for Irish citizens, at home and abroad, to apply for a passport. The service supports renewals, first-time applications, and applications for new-borns and children.
In 2025, 93% of all applicants chose Passport Online when applying for their passport, highlighting the convenience and ease of this accessible digital service.
The 2026 ‘Don’t Be That Person’ digital campaign will focus on informing parents that both first time and renewal applications for babies and children can be made online.
Launching the campaign, Minister McEntee said: “As people begin planning holidays, family trips, and work travel for the year ahead, it’s vital to check the validity of your passport as you make your preparations.
“A simple check today can prevent unnecessary stress closer to your travel date. Passport Online has transformed how Irish citizens access this essential service. It is fast, secure, and accessible across the world.”
Minister McEntee highlighted the importance of planning for families and taking advantage of the Passport Online service: “As a parent of young children myself, I know the organisation that goes into planning a family holiday. For parents planning to travel with children, particularly their first holiday, applying online and early is key.
“Passport Online makes this process straightforward and applying well in advance of travel ensures a smooth start to your holiday. I encourage everyone to use Passport Online when applying for, or renewing, their passport.”
For further information or to apply for a passport online, visit www.Ireland.ie/PassportOnline