As the summer holidays get underway we are being advised of changes to the passport application process.

Anyone applying for a new one will have to do so through the Passport Express service rather than by ordinary or registered mail. Applications made through standard postal service will no longer be processed after June 30th.

A new appointment service will also operate at the Passport Office in Molesworth Street in Dublin. It is geared only at those who have to make an application in person because they are travelling at short notice or within 3 to 10 working days. This follows a successful pilot programme of the scheme.

But it cautions that customers who are not travelling within 3-10 working days should use Passport Express, adding that "priority at public counters is given to those travelling at short notice and the fastest turnaround time for such applications is three working days".

Service set to be extended

It allows customers to book an appointment between 9am and 5pm - Monday to Friday - so they do not have to wait in line. Appointments can be made online. The service is to be extended to Passport Offices in Cork and London over the coming months.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says Passport Express is the method through which the majority of passports are now processed. The system was launched back in 1995.

We are being reminded that the cost of getting a standard adult passport through Passport Express is currently €89, while the equivalent postal or over-the-counter cost at the Passport Office is €95.

Joe Nugent is Director of Passport Services. He told Breakfast here on Newstalk that anyone who sends an application through the normal postal system after the end of June will have it sent back to them.