Where to Get Public Service Card in Ireland in 2024

Public Service Card in Ireland

Do you want to get Irish Public Service Card? You have probably heard your neighbours talking about the benefits they enjoy from owning a PSC. This article tells you what Public Service Card is all about. Also, you will get to know the ideal place to get Public Service Card in Ireland.

last update : 3/9/2024

What is a Public Service Card

The Public Service Card is a document authenticated by the Government for the purpose of confirming your legal identity.

If you check the front of a PSC, you will discover that it shows the holder’s name, signature and photograph. Other information on the Public Service Card includes expiration date, PPS number and card number.

What Do You Need a Public Service Card For

You might begin to wonder. What exactly is the fuss around the Public Service Card? What benefits do you stand to enjoy after registering or one?

To start with, the Public Service Card lets you enjoy Government-sponsored services in Ireland. For example, you get to access public services, facilities and information.

And on a closer examination of the PSC, you will discover that it has a magnetic strip. This strip grants you access to social welfare payments. So, you won’t be left out of benefits coming from the Irish Government.

Additionally, the Public Service Card indicates whether you can avail of free travel. Likewise, it reveals whether or not you can bring a companion with you.

Where to Get Public Services Card

If you want to get Public Service Card in Ireland, there are two legitimate means. On the one hand, you can make an in-person request. And on the other hand, you can apply for a Public Service Card online.

Get Public Service Card online.

With respect to online application, you should schedule a Standard Authentication Framework Environment (SAFE) appointment on MyWelfare.ie.

Get Public Service Card in person

If you prefer the in-person application, you should check in at a local Intreo Centre or a Social Welfare Branch. They will take your details and help you process a Public Service Card in no distant time.

How to Get a Public Service Card

If you want to get an Irish Public Service Card, you need to request for an appointment at an Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office via the SAFE (Standard Authentication Framework Environment) registration.

After making the SAFE registration, you will get an appointment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. During your appointment, you must provide a recent photo. Further, the officials will take your signature and you will answer some security questions.  

Do you have a verified photo for your Public Service Card application? If your answer is “No”, then you should start the process immediately on Smartphone iD.

How Much Does a Public Service Card Cost

Public Service Card Cost

The Public Service Card costs zero Euros. It is absolutely free for all qualified persons in Ireland.

How to Renew Public Services Card

The process of renewing a Public Service Card is similar to registering for a new one. However, there are vital document and other steps that you must take.

Applicants are expected to have a verified MyGovID account. After verifying the account, you need to confirm that your personal information on the website. Then you should ensure that your address is valid.

Since you are renewing your Public Service Card, it takes that your previous photo would be old. Therefore, the authorities expect you to upload a recent photo.

To avoid delay, you can take a new photo with Smartphone iD. All it takes is a few minutes. 

Do You Need an Appointment for a Public Service Card?

As a first-time applicant, you should bear in mind that there are several persons like you looking to get the Public Service Card. And to ensure orderliness and thorough job, the authorities usually schedule appointments for all applicants.

You can request for appointments to get your Public Service Card via an Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office in your locality. This appointment is commonly called the SAFE (Standard Authentication Framework Environment) registration.

How Long To Get a Public Service Card

The Irish Public Service Card does not take so much time to get. After your appointment with the relevant authorities, you will get your PSC in about 7-10 working days.

It is worthy if mention that there could be some delay if your information is incorrect or invalid. So ensure that there is neither error nor omission from your end.

How Long Do Public Service Cards Last

According to a recent guideline by the Irish authorities, your Public Service Card is valid for 7 years if it was issued up to November 2018. However, your PSC can enjoy a validity period of 10 years if it was issued after November 2018.

How to Take Your Biometric Photo for Your PSC With Your Phone

Biometric Photo for Your PSC With Your Phone & Smartphone iD app

When making application for a Public Service Card, you are expected to submit recent and valid biometric photos.The Smartphone iD app lets you create approved biometric photos for your Public Service Card.

Here is an easy guide on taking the photo using Smartphone iD:

Step #1: Download the app. It can be downloaded from the Apple of Android store.

Step #2: Select the country for the document. Ex: Ireland

Step #3: Select the document type. Ex: PSC

Step #4: Take the photo using your device and the in-app instructions.

Step #5: Have the photo emailed or printed and shipped to your home.

Smartphone iD is not only easy-to-use, but it also provides expert verification, in-app sizing and editing, and affordable prices! If you want to fastest way to take your PSC photo, you should opt to use the Smartphone iD app.

Summary

The Public Service Card affords you access to welfare services and packages of the Irish Government. So you should not hesitate to request yours.

But before making a valid application, you should note that you need biometric photos that match the standards. Thus, you should download the Smartphone iD app to create verified biometric photos for your Ireland Public Service Card.

FAQs

How can I get Public Service Card?

You can apply to get a PSC on MyWelfare.ie or at a local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.

Can Non-EU Citizens Get Public Service Card?

Yes. Both EU and Non-EU citizens can get a Public Services Card

Do I need Public Service Card for Passport Application?

The PSC serves as a proof of identity for first time passport applicants who are 18 years of age and above

Do I Need A PPS Number?

Yes. The PPS numbers grants you access to social welfare benefits in Ireland

Can I Renew My Public Service Card?

Of course! Public Services Cards are renewable after expiration.

which app for Ireland Public Service Card photo

,For Ireland’s Public Service Card photo, Smartphone iD APP is the recommended choice.

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