Short Answer
The last stages of passport issuance involve printing, lamination, signing, quality checks, and dispatch, indicating you are close to receiving your passport. While the entire process usually takes 6-8 weeks, once printing starts, expect your passport within a few days to a couple of weeks, but be mindful of potential delays and stay updated with the processing center.
Step 1: Understand the Final Stages of Passport Issuance
Once you are notified that your passport printing has started, it indicates that you are approaching the end of the passport-issuing process. The steps following this include lamination, signing, quality check, and finally, dispatch. Recognizing that these steps are sequential can help prepare you for the final wait.
Step 2: Estimate Your Wait Time
While the entire process from application to dispatch typically takes about 6-8 weeks, reaching the printing stage means you can expect a shorter wait time. You may receive your passport as soon as a few days or, at most, within a couple of weeks. This variance depends on the efficiency of the processing center and their current workload.
Step 3: Monitor for Potential Delays
Although you are in the final stages, be aware that unforeseen circumstances might cause delays. Stay informed by checking with the passport processing center for updates on your application status. Regular communication can also provide reassurance during this last phase of waiting for your passport to arrive.