Applications for the new passport card are now being accepted online from Irish citizens.

The biometric card allows Irish citizens to travel within all 30 countries of the European Union and European Economic Area (EEA) without having to bring their full passport.

Adult citizens who already have a valid Irish passport are eligible to apply for the card, which is designed to fit like a credit card into any wallet or purse.

The card can be applied for via the Department of Foreign Affairs website at ww.dfa.ie or via a dedicated mobile app.

According to Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan, the card “will enhance the travel experience for Irish people as they go on holidays or business trips to 30 countries throughout Europe.”

He added: “I am particularly proud that we are one of the very first countries in the world to introduce such a passport card. It represents a very positive story of Irish-led creative thinking and innovation and illustrates that we are very much pioneers in this area.

“It also underlines the Government’s commitment to the expanded provision of public services online.”