Immigration and Emigration computer data system still inactive

2026-02-12 - 18:10

The computer data system of the Department of Immigration and Emigration has not yet been restored to normalcy, its Media Spokesman, Mr Mahesh Karunadasa, stated. He said that steps are being taken to restore the system as soon as possible. He further stated that office staff, together with a special technical committee, are taking urgent measures to rectify the data system. He noted that if the system is restored during the course of today, the issuance of passports and visas can recommence immediately thereafter. He also said that the technical fault has affected all main and branch offices. Due to this situation, the Media Spokesman requested members of the public who do not have urgent requirements to postpone visiting the Department to obtain passports until next week. He further emphasised that up-to-date information can be obtained via the Department’s 1962 telephone hotline or through its official website. Expressing further views, Mr Mahesh Karunadasa said: “Due to a sudden technical fault that occurred in the data system of the Department of Immigration and Emigration today, we were unable to issue one-day and ordinary passports. At present, the office staff together with the relevant technical committee are working to restore the system. If it is restored during the course of today, we will be able to recommence the issuance of passports and visas from that moment. If members of the public do not have urgent requirements to obtain passports, we kindly request them to visit the Head Office or our branch offices from next week. Members of the public may contact us via the 1962 telephone number or refer to our official website before visiting. We are providing continuous updates through our website. Once the data system has been restored, the public may visit the office. Alternatively, they may make inquiries through the 1962 hotline at any time before coming to the office. If the matter is not urgent, we request them to visit the Head Office or a branch office next week. The technical fault in the data system has affected all branch offices.”