23/04/2026
It is becoming practically impossible to book an appointment at the Italian Consulate in Cologne for passport renewal.
For months, the system shows the same message:
“Due to the high demand, all available slots for the selected service are fully booked.”
No alternatives. No waiting list. No transparency on when new appointments will be released.
This is not just an inconvenience — it is a serious limitation of a fundamental right. Citizens are effectively prevented from obtaining essential identity documents, which are necessary for travel, identification, and access to basic services.
A public institution cannot hide behind “high demand” indefinitely without providing a functional solution. The current system is clearly inadequate and leaves thousands of Italian citizens abroad without access to their rights.
We need:
* A transparent and fair booking system
* A waiting list or queue mechanism
* Increased availability and staffing
* Clear communication from the Consulate
Italian citizens abroad deserve better. This situation is unacceptable and must be addressed urgently.
RightsMatter