The new Irish e-passport will replace previous versions and offers enhanced security, including a polycarbonate electronic data page with a contactless microchip, which will make it extremely difficult to counterfeit or imitate the passport. The new e-passport also includes tamper-evident features, improving the durability and reliability of the polycarbonate electronic data page, particularly the page with the embedded RFID chip. By leveraging these tamper-evident features, the government can fully utilize the advantages of smart card technology and extend the lifespan of ID credential cards to ten years.
The latest design of the Irish passport highlights iconic Irish landmarks, including Croagh Patrick, Kylemore Abbey, and Croke Park, in addition to images depicting Irish music, dance, and Gaelic games. Mr. Gilmore, the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, stated: “Irish passport holders are traveling more frequently and to more destinations than ever before.” In 2012, the Irish government issued more than 630,000 Irish passports, and there are approximately 4.5 million citizens in the Republic of Ireland who may apply for a new passport.
