Republic of Moldova Introduces New Passport Model Aligned with European Standards, Increases Fee
What changed
The Public Services Agency (PSA) of the Republic of Moldova is introducing a new passport model for its citizens, to be put into circulation from 15 October 2026. This updated document incorporates approximately 100 advanced security elements, bringing it into line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Doc 9303 and European Union security standards for travel documents. The fee for a standard passport issued within 20 working days will increase from MDL 650 to MDL 790, exclusively covering the increased production costs associated with these new security features. Citizens holding valid older passports are not required to replace them until their current document expires.
The detail
Related changes
United KingdomPassport RulesAnnouncementEffective 6 Oct 2026 Nigeria Extends Special Passport Intervention Exercise in the United Kingdom Until 30 October 2026
What changed
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has officially extended the Special Passport Intervention Exercise in the United Kingdom, formalising new processing timelines and fee structures for passport services for Nigerian citizens residing there. This change is incorporated into the Revised Edition of the Service Level Agreement (SLA), published in April 2026. Consequently, fresh standard passport applications will now take 42 days, while re-issue applications will be processed within 21 days following successful enrolment, with specific fees for different validity periods.
Published 4 Oct 2026Effective 6 Oct 2026Nigeria Immigration Service — News
United StatesPassport RulesAnnouncementAmended 29 Sept 2026 U.S. State Department Introduces Online Passport Application for First-Time Applicants and Redesigned 2028 U.S. Passport
What changed
The U.S. State Department is introducing a fully online application process for first-time U.S. passport applicants, which will commence next year. This initiative, part of the broader America.gov project, seeks to streamline what was previously a complex, multi-step process involving printing forms, scheduling appointments, and in-person visits. Concurrently, a redesigned 2028 U.S. passport featuring enhanced visual elements and security features will be rolled out. These measures are intended to make passport acquisition more accessible and to better reflect the significance of U.S. citizenship.
Published 29 Sept 2026U.S. State Department — Press releases
United KingdomPassport RulesPublishedEffective 24 Sept 2026 UK Publishes New Guidance for British Passport Applications by Adult Care Leavers
What changed
The Home Office and HM Passport Office have updated their guidance for adults who were previously in care and are applying for a British passport. This updated guidance, published on 24 September 2026, makes the application process clearer, explains how to prove British nationality, sets out identity check requirements, and offers help with getting necessary documents. The aim is to make the process simpler for this particular group of applicants.
Published 24 Sept 2026Effective 24 Sept 2026GOV.UK — Immigration rules & guidance updates
CanadaPassport RulesEffectiveEffective 15 Sept 2026 Canada Expands Passport Service Offerings in Prince Edward Island with On-site Printing Capabilities
What changed
The Government of Canada has significantly expanded passport service options at the Charlottetown Service Canada Centre in Prince Edward Island. Effective from 15 September 2026, the centre now offers express passport service (2 to 9 business days) and urgent service (by the end of the next business day), enabled by new on-site printing. This change eliminates the need for residents to travel off-Island for faster passport processing.
Published 15 Sept 2026Effective 15 Sept 2026Government of Canada — Immigration announcements
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