Consider extending validity of passports to improve efficiency and service

Dear Editor,

Guyana is on the cusp of major development, and with the reality of having to live with the pandemic Guyanese locally and abroad are again travelling in numbers. This trend is likely to increase, and as such it is important that our country put ample measures in place to ensure citizens and visitors enjoy seamless public services.

Through this medium, I would therefore like to suggest that the Guyana Passport Office and those in authority give consideration to reinstating renewal of passports every 5 years over a 15 year period, or extending the validity of the Guyana passport to 10 years as obtains in many countries.

Either of these measures will result in reduced operational cost, less traffic at the passport office and improved efficiency in expediting requests.

Notably, many passports cancelled after the existing 5-year period contain numerous unused pages representing wasted stationery and money. An appropriate fee can be levied for the 5-year renewal or new passport ensuring no loss of revenue, and I am sure the hard working and dedicated staff of the passport office and other citizens will welcome the change.

Sincerely,

Joey Carew