WILLEMSTAD - The waiting time for passport applications at Kranshi has increased to three months. This prolonged waiting period is due to insufficient capacity at the Civil Registrar’s Office (Kranshi).

Previously, Kranshi was able to issue 110 passports per day, but now they can only process 60. Ruthline Haddocks, head of Public Affairs, explained that the shortage of civil servants has resulted in fewer passports being issued daily, leading to longer waiting times. 

Furthermore, approximately 20 percent of individuals fail to show up for their scheduled appointments. Haddocks clarified, "Since people do not cancel their appointments, waiting times continue to increase." Kranshi is urging residents to cancel their appointments if they are unable to attend. 

Despite the Civil Registrar’s Office operating on Saturdays to provide services, a backlog still exists. 

For individuals planning vacations, it is advised to schedule passport appointments six months in advance due to the extended waiting times. Additionally, some countries require passports to be valid for more than six months for entry. Travelers who need passports urgently can request an emergency passport from the Governor's Office. 

State Secretary for Kingdom Relations, Alexandra van Huffelen, stated during a press conference that she is not currently aware of the extended waiting times and will address the issue at a later time. 

Haddocks has investigated the matter and is working towards a resolution while apologizing for the inconvenience caused. The timeline for reducing waiting times is currently unknown.