93. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she is aware of difficulties experienced by passport applicants whereby photographs uploaded through the Online Passport Service are initially accepted by the system but subsequently fail biometric verification checks; if consideration is being given to improving the online photo-validation process so that non-compliant photographs are identified before submission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50212/26]

The Passport Service takes its responsibility to protect the integrity of the Irish passport very seriously. The Irish passport has a strong international reputation due to the strength of the security features within the passport book and the robust processes involved in its issuance. The Irish passport was recently ranked fourth in the Henley Global Passport Index, as it provides our citizens with visa-free access to 186 countries. Accordingly, there is a rigorous checking process in place for first time applications.

The Passport Service complies with the photo regulations and passport guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The ICAO is a UN agency that defines in detail the required format for a passport.

The Passport Service continually works to enhance the service and provide efficiencies for customers.

The Passport Service's programme of reform will continue throughout this year and into next year, with the delivery of a number of highly complex and transformational projects that are necessary to future-proof service delivery, enhance the customer experience, ensure business continuity, and safeguard the integrity of the Irish passport. Successful delivery of these projects will ensure that Ireland remains at the forefront of passport processing worldwide. The Reform Programme includes improvements to the Passport Online website including the submission of passport photos

There are a variety of reasons why an applicant may be required to submit a new photo for their passport application. These may include issues with the photo background, closed eyes or incorrect size.

Online applications for which additional photos are requested, are processed within a maximum of 10 working days upon the receipt of the new photo. All other requests for further documents are processed within 15 working days of receipt of the additional documents, for both paper and online application types.

The Passport Service has extensive public education materials, including video tutorials on taking a passport photo and detailed instructions on the application process, available on my Department’s website: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/photo-guidelines/

In addition, should assistance be required with an application, Customer Service agents are available by phone and webchat services from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. The Customer Service Hub can be contacted at +353 1 671 1633, or via the WebChat service: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/contact-us/