Verifying Identity for Sri Lankan passport application
We’ve recently had questions from Justices of the Peace regarding how to correctly complete identity verification for clients renewing a Sri Lankan passport. You can view the application form by clicking HERE.
In this situation the JP must;
- Ensure the client’s current photo ID (such as a driver licence) matches the personal details on page 1 of the passport application form.
- Confirm that the new passport photos and the photo ID clearly depict the same person.
- Check that the signature on the current photo ID matches the client’s signature made in your presence.
Once satisfied, the Sri Lankan consulate advises that the JP should:
- Apply their round stamp so it slightly overlaps the edge of the photo on the right-hand side of page 2 (between paragraphs 18 and 19), and sign, so that part of the signature also crosses the edge of the photo.
- Complete the declaration at the top of page 4, which begins “To the best of my knowledge and belief…”
What does this statement mean?
It means you’ve carried out all reasonable checks and everything appears to be in order. Similar to the wording on your certified copy stamp (“presented to me as an original”), this phrasing recognises that while deception is theoretically possible, you’ve taken appropriate steps to verify identity.
It means you’ve carried out all reasonable checks and everything appears to be in order. Similar to the wording on your certified copy stamp (“presented to me as an original”), this phrasing recognises that while deception is theoretically possible, you’ve taken appropriate steps to verify identity.