The issuance of new Bulgarian passports commenced on Monday with the opening of the new Administrative Services Centre for the Bulgarian Identity Documents Directorate in Sofia’s Mladost 4 borough. Caretaker Interior Minister Emil Dechev stated that this facility represents the culmination of a project that began in 2022. Dechev explained that the new identity document personalization centre facilitates centralized personalization, which enhances security by meeting high international standards, while application submission remains decentralized.
He noted that this development strengthens Bulgaria’s security infrastructure and reinforces its role as a key international partner. Deputy Interior Minister Ivan Anchev added that the centre incorporates advanced technological capabilities and will soon offer electronic identification services. A significant update includes the introduction of a new 48-page Bulgarian passport valid for ten years, although the existing five-year options will remain available.
Regarding costs, Anchev clarified that price adjustments are aligned with production expenses and are not substantial. Dr. Stefan Muehlbauer, from the manufacturing company, remarked that the process was extensive, spanning over a decade.
He stated that the primary objective was to introduce advanced technologies and the highest level of security for Bulgarian identity documents. The official opening marked the realization of this long-term goal, positioning the new facilities as a significant upgrade to national document security.
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