The Ministry of Homeland Security has officially announced the resumption of passport processing and issuance services following the successful migration to a new, permanent system by Madras Security Printers, replacing the temporary system earlier provided by E-Tech Systems.
The rollout, which began today, Friday, July 25, 2025, comes after months of disruptions triggered by a cyberattack on the passport issuance system in March 2024, forcing government to rely on an interim platform that later proved problematic with Malawians being arrested abroad, denied entry at border posts, or facing humiliating delays over passport scanning failures.
In a statement signed by Homeland Security Minister Ezekiel Peter Ching’oma, the Ministry expressed regret over the inconveniences caused by the temporary system and thanked the public for its patience during the transition.
“The Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused during the recently completed migration process,” the Minister stated. “Today Friday, the 25th July, 2025, the Ministry gladly announces that the new system for a permanent solution to the passport issuance system has rolled out.”
Ching’oma said the new system brings with it a series of innovations including Biometric E-passports with an embedded chip meeting ICAO standards, online applications and appointment bookings and multiple payment options, including mobile money and bank integrations.
Additionally, the new system will see the backlog cleared in 21 days, with decentralised passport services now extending to Salima, Mzimba, Karonga, Kasungu, and Chikwawa in addition to existing regional centres.
Lilongwe leads the rollout starting today, with the remaining centres expected to go fully operational next week.
In line with international protocols, specimen copies of the new passport will be dispatched to foreign missions and countries globally to facilitate smooth travel for Malawians abroad.
