Passport peak, apply for new travel documents on time!
Passports and identity cards became valid for 10 years starting in 2014. Before then, it was 5 years. That means that this year the first travel documents issued then will start to expire.
As a result, there will be a so-called "passport peak. Many people will be renewing their documents. This may cause longer waiting times when applying for a new travel document.
Be ahead of the rush
Waiting times for applying for a new travel document can therefore increase, especially in the period before the summer vacations. Therefore, apply for a new passport or identity card well in advance. You can renew your travel document earlier than just before its expiration date. This allows you to get ahead of the crowds and ensure that you have a new travel document on time.
Due to the passport surge, you may also experience longer wait times for arranging other things at Citizens' Square such as applying for a driver's license or extract and filing a moving declaration.
Apply online on time or make Make an appointment appointment
You can apply for a new travel document online or make an appointment at the municipality. A Make an appointment appointment can be made online through the municipality of Kerkrade's website or by telephone at 14045.
Applying for a driver's license or extract and filing a removal declaration are some examples of things you can also easily arrange online these days. This saves you time and you don't have to visit the town hall as often.
For help with arranging government affairs online, visit the Digital Government Information Point (IDO) in the Kerkrade Library (HuB). You can go there every Friday between 10 a.m. and noon without an appointment.
Correct passport photo
Health make sure you have a correct passport photo before the appointment to apply for a travel document. It should not be older than 6 months. Tip: Have the passport photo taken at a professional photographer.