The number of passport applications has quadrupled since March
The Bermuda Department of Immigration has long had operational challenges and experienced backlogs, however it is thought that the current increase in the number of applications is partly the result of an increase in travel post-pandemic.
Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, has told the House of Assembly that the requirement for immigration staff to check whether applicants have dual nationality which was implemented in August 2021 has caused delays which have surpassed the average processing time of 11 weeks. Since 2016 staff have also been required to verify how an applicant is entitled to a British Overseas Territories Citizen, Bermuda passport and this requirement had necessitated extra training.
Adding to the delays, passport processing has since 2016 been carried out in the United Kingdom, and the ability to issue emergency passports is limited by the requirements of Her Majesty’s Passport Office in Britain.
Minister Hayward advised that the appointment of the extra staff needed by the department to deal with the backlog had been approved by the Ministry of Finance, but he acknowledged that a more permanent solution for the issue must include a review of its processes and reorganisation.
