Passport traffic jam in Kassel: For weeks, waiting times frustrate travelers

Passport traffic jam in Kassel: For weeks, waiting times frustrate travelers

A significant surprise hit the citizens of the Kassel district when the waiting times for applying for a passport rose to over eight weeks. This situation raises questions and illuminates the dynamics of the passport as an important document at a time when traveling is becoming more important again.

increasing demand leads to longer waiting times

The current situation is undoubtedly associated with a record demand. From January to the end of July 2024, a total of 10,357 passport applications were made in the Kassel district, which corresponds to an increase of 35 percent compared to the previous year. These figures make it clear that interest in travel, especially in distant countries, has risen according to the pandemic.

causes of the increase

The reasons for this rush are diverse. An essential factor is the return to the desire to travel, which was boosted again by the cancellation of travel restrictions. A spokesman for the city also mentions the introduction of passage for Great Britain after Brexit and the abolition of the child's passport as a major causes of the high number of applications. In addition, the increasing naturalization figures and a general feeling of security have led to even more people want to apply for a passport.

preliminary passports and their limits

To cope with the bottleneck, the city is increasingly exhibiting preliminary passports. An advantage of these passes is immediate availability; They can be applied for and handed over directly in the citizens' office. But there are also restrictions: "However, these are not recognized in all countries," warns a spokeswoman for the city of Baunatal. This can be particularly problematic for travelers who are out of the EU.

The role of the Bundesdruckerei

Another challenge lies with the Federal Printing, which is currently faced with delivery difficulties. Your production capacities are overloaded by the high demand. Additional machines have already been ordered and should provide relief from next year.

effects on local citizens

The waiting time has an impact on the plans of the people in the Kassel district. Around 1,600 passport applications were made in Baunatal in the first half of 2024, compared to around 900 in the previous year. This shows that the citizens are willing to apply for their passport despite the long waiting times. The travel behavior has obviously changed and the desire to travel is unbroken.

options for urgent

For those who have it particularly in a hurry, the option of the Express Pass remains. These are provided within three days, but this is associated with higher costs. Many travelers are increasingly choosing this path in order to be able to implement their travel plans in good time. This is reflected in the figures: In the period from January to the end of July 2024, over 2500 expresses were requested - an increase of two and a half times compared to the previous year.

conclusion: patience is required

- Nag