First Time Passport Application -- No Option for Passport Card

[buddy26]

Hi there, I have just filed my first time application for an Irish passport online via the Irish government portal, following naturalisation as a British citizen by residence in Ireland.

But it did not give me any option to buy a bundle of passport book + passport card. Only the passport book on its own. Why is this?

I previously saw other folks who are first time applicants being able to buy the passport book + passport card bundle.

It only gave me the option to get the book alone for €75. Why is this? Have they changed the rules? You can test it out yourself by starting a first time passport application by naturalisation. Only the option for a passport book alone.

Or am I doing something wrong here? Thanks for letting me know what's going on here

[corky100]

Yes, I noticed that - it's got nothing to do with what category of citizenship you hold etc.

It used to be a case that a childs passport card was only available on renewal, now it's not available for children at all.

And yes, 1st time passport card applications for adults have been stopped.

My two conspiracy theories:-

1) Limited stock due to pending passport redesign.
2) They're being phased out.

[buddy26]

Many thanks for the reply. I asked them and all I got is that they aren't offering passport cards to first time passport applicants, and you have to apply for one after you get your passport book.

[corky100]

Just an update - It looks like conspiracy theory 1 was correct, new design released today, DFA website back to normal, adults can get a passport card on first application, and children on renewal.

And one thought on the Passport Card redesign - I know why they have not done this (it's a passport), but it would have greatly improved acceptance when travelling in the EU (what it is for), if it had the EU Flag with "IRL" in the corner.

People in the EU expect to see it, so I guess the confused stares will continue, but at least it now says PASSPORT very clearly, which will help a lot.

And if the DFA read this, please allow kids to get a PC without waiting 5 years after their first passport. Great as a backup for a school trip, and for EU ID when taking them to certain attractions or when faced with an random Italian police ID check.