Well, it is not as easy or as hard as you think. You do not have to practice patience before you go there like old days, if you follow below steps correctly.
Step 1: Take Photographs
Here are the list of the authorized studios. You can check the below link.
Click here to see the authorized studios
Take photos from a listed studio and they will send the photo submission acceptance note to the immigration department and provide you with the applicant’s original copy with reference and barcode.
Step 2: Make Online Appointment
There are several branches and you can make an online appointment via below link.
Click here to make online appointment
You can select the available date and time (currently its 45 days ahead) and you will receive the confirmation on your mobile.
Step 3: Documents Preparation
Filled Application Form, Acknowledgment of Photo Submission, Original Birth Certificate, Copy of National ID/DL, Copy of Previous Passport if available, Employment Letter if you want to include current position in passport.
Step 4: Submission Day
This is only applicable if you are going to Battaramulla Head Office.
Enter through gate 3, enter the Immigration and Emigration Department building, verify your photo signature with the stamp at the ground floor counters, enter the 2nd floor and get a token number, check your documents to present your token and stay. Number to call (they call token numbers in 50 slots, so no specific order, food and drinks available in this waiting area).
After dialing your token number enter the presentation area and wait for the presentation questions. Submit the documents with NIC/DL and previous passport for cancellation, officials go through the documents and give you the declaration form for fingerprint signature. National ID/DL and previous passport will be returned and other documents will be kept here.
Fingerprint and Payment (Cash only, Rs. 15,000/- for a passport), once you make the payment a receipt will be issued with the collection counter number and you will receive a text message as well as payment acknowledgement. You will get 3 messages in total. 1. Accept payment 2. Accepted for processing 3. Ready to collect. After you receive the 1st message it will take about 5 hours to collect (this may vary).
The collection is on the 1st floor. Your name will be called within 20 minutes after you receive the 3rd message. Provide your token number and the receipt issued after payment and they will release your passport along with the submitted documents. After you add double check that the details like spelling, DOB, NIC number, DOB, gender etc. are correct.
That's It.
I must say this is very systematic and efficient, 99% friendly and helpful staff. If you think you are confused don’t hesitate to ask the staff questions. Food and drinks are available in all waiting areas. Wish you good luck..!
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