This is a global problem. I work around the edges of several foreign passport systems and Passport Agencies have been on edge for month as they have started to see application volumes increase. Some countries are starting to restrict applications to those with a passport expiring soonish, others for imminent travel.

One example from a country in the southern hemisphere:

• estimated backlog of 1.8 million applications based on historical issuance volumes
• From spring 2021 to Oct 2021, weekly applications have risen from 2000 to 8000 (still below normal)
• They are very afraid to receive a tsunami of applications when their borders fully open.