What To Know
- It is highly recommended to check the official website or call the relevant passport office to confirm their availability.
- If you are traveling abroad, you may be able to apply for a passport at the embassy or consulate of your home country.
- Can I apply for a passport at the airport over Christmas.
The festive season brings joy, cheer, and often, the need for a passport renewal. With the holiday rush approaching, it’s crucial to know if the passport office remains operational during this period. This blog post will delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to the question: “Does the passport office work over Christmas?”
Regular Passport Office Hours
Typically, passport offices operate during regular business hours from Monday to Friday, excluding weekends and public holidays. However, these hours may vary depending on the specific location and time of year.
Passport Office Hours Over Christmas
Closed on Christmas Day
On Christmas Day, all passport offices nationwide will be closed to the public. This is in line with the general closure of government offices and businesses on this national holiday.
Closed on Boxing Day
In most regions, Boxing Day (December 26) is also a public holiday. Therefore, passport offices will remain closed on this day as well.
Limited Hours on December 27-29
From December 27-29, some passport offices may offer limited hours of operation. However, these hours may vary significantly from location to location. It is highly recommended to check the official website or call the relevant passport office to confirm their availability.
Regular Hours Resume on December 30
From December 30 onward, most passport offices will resume their regular business hours. However, it’s always advisable to verify the specific operating hours for your local passport office.
Urgent Passport Applications
If you require an urgent passport renewal over the Christmas period, you may be able to apply for an expedited service. However, this service typically incurs an additional fee and may not be available at all passport offices. It is crucial to contact the passport office directly to inquire about the availability and requirements for expedited applications.
Alternative Options
If the passport office is closed or has limited hours over Christmas, you may consider exploring alternative options:
- Contact the Embassy or Consulate: If you are traveling abroad, you may be able to apply for a passport at the embassy or consulate of your home country.
- Use a Passport Expediting Service: There are private companies that offer passport expediting services. These companies can assist with the application process and expedite the issuance of your passport for an additional fee.
In a nutshell
The passport office does not work on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. However, some passport offices may offer limited hours of operation from December 27-29. Regular business hours resume on December 30. If you require an urgent passport renewal over the Christmas period, consider applying for an expedited service or exploring alternative options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the passport office open on Christmas Eve?
A: No, the passport office is closed on Christmas Eve.
Q: Can I apply for a passport at the airport over Christmas?
A: No, passport offices at airports are also closed over Christmas.
Q: What is the best way to contact the passport office over Christmas?
A: Check the official website or call the relevant passport office directly.
