The Ministry of Citizen Protection and the Hellenic Police have modernized the passport issuance process with a new electronic application that went live on December 31, 2025. The new application reduces processing time for requests, eliminates some required documents, and enhances security through the digital collection of photographs.

The use of this application will be extended to Greek consular authorities abroad in 2026, accelerating the process for Greeks living abroad. From August 3, 2026, possession of the new type of identity card will be mandatory for passport issuance.

The Ministry of Citizen Protection and the Hellenic Police Headquarters have upgraded the document collection procedure for passport issuance to improve citizen service, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance the security of the process.

Specifically, following the signing of a Joint Ministerial Decision, a new electronic system was launched to transfer required documents from the service points receiving applications to the Directorate of Passports and Security Documents of the Hellenic Police Headquarters.

This new system was designed and implemented without any cost to the state budget while ensuring process integrity and citizen data protection according to personal data legislation.

The key benefits for citizens and involved services include:

• Reduction of processing time by 1-2 days by eliminating the postal handling of physical documents.
• Faster request handling and fewer rejected applications due to automatic pre-filling of data via interoperability with other information systems.
• Abolition of several documents previously required to accompany passport applications (digital copy of ID card, proof of electronic fee payment, verification of theft or loss reports).
• Significant reduction in courier expenses.
• Enhanced passport security through digital capture of higher-quality facial photographs.

Initially, the system is used by all passport offices and document reception points nationwide. Its use will expand to Greek consular offices abroad within 2026, expected to reduce issuance time for Greeks abroad by up to 30 days, previously required for postal correspondence.

The new application started on December 31, 2025. However, to ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted service for those who have already submitted printed photos, the submission of paper documents may continue in parallel until January 31, 2026, as per a relevant ministerial decision.

From August 3, 2026, onwards, the possession of the new type of ID card will be mandatory for issuing Greek passports, further enhancing security.

Detailed information on the procedure and required documents is available on the Passport and Security Documents Directorate website: www.passport.gov.gr.