By: Fatou Krubally
The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has dismissed reports circulating in sections of the media alleging a shortage of biometric passport booklets in Spain, describing the claims as inaccurate and misleading.
In a statement issued by its Public Relations Office, the department said the information appeared intended to create a negative impression of ongoing efforts to assist Gambian migrants abroad with documentation services.
According to the GID, the biometric enrolment team currently operating in Spain is not responsible for holding or issuing passport booklets. The department clarified that the team’s role is strictly limited to enrolment and data capture for applicants.
“All passport application files processed in Spain and Italy will be printed in The Gambia,” the statement noted, adding that there was sufficient stock of biometric passport booklets in the country to handle all applications.
The GID further stated that the enrolment exercise, which began on April 27, 2026, had been conducted by immigration staff who continued to provide services professionally despite high demand.
While acknowledging the strong demand for passports among Gambians in Spain, the department maintained that this has not affected its ability to deliver services as planned.
The statement also urged the public to rely on official communication channels to avoid misinformation, warning that false narratives could undermine on-going administrative efforts.
“The GID reaffirms its commitment to service delivery and urges all Gambians to remain in contact with the Public Relations Office for accurate information,” it added.
The clarification comes amid growing public discussion over passport processing services for Gambians abroad, particularly in Europe, where demand has increased in recent months.
Authorities say the exercise remains on-going and part of broader efforts to improve access to national identity and travel documentation for citizens in the diaspora.
