Naju-si to Issue 'Next-Generation Electronic Passports' Starting from the 21st

Published 16 Dec.2021 16:14(KST)

[Naju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yukbong] Naju City, Jeollanam-do (Mayor Kang In-gyu) announced on the 16th that it will issue the ‘next-generation electronic passport’ with improved form and function starting from the 21st.

The newly issued next-generation electronic passport features changes and improvements such as ‘cover color and design,’ ‘expanded visa pages,’ ‘exclusion of resident registration number (only date of birth indicated),’ and ‘enhanced security on the personal information page.’

The personal information page containing the photo and name uses polycarbonate, a type of plastic, instead of the previous paper material to enhance security and durability, with details engraved by laser.

The cover color has been changed from green to navy blue, and the inside pages are designed with images of Korean cultural heritage.

The number of visa pages has been expanded from 24 and 48 pages to ‘26 and 58 pages,’ and the existing visa sticker system will be discontinued.

When applying for the next-generation electronic passport, applicants must bring a passport photo, identification card, and the existing passport (if still valid).

Applications can be made anywhere nationwide, and the city office’s Citizen Service Division’s General Civil Affairs Team can be visited for assistance.

The issuance fee remains the same as before (26 pages - 50,000 KRW; 58 pages - 53,000 KRW), and for the convenience of citizens, those applying in person can receive direct delivery service through the passport production agency at their own expense.

Additionally, citizens who have ever been issued an electronic passport can apply for reissuance through the ‘Government24’ website, and passports received by the 20th will be issued as green passports.

Existing passports can still be used until their expiration date even after the introduction of the next-generation electronic passport.

A city official stated, “We recommend issuing the next-generation electronic passport before departure if the validity period is less than six months,” and added, “We will proceed with prompt and accurate work to ensure that citizens do not experience inconvenience in the passport issuance process.”