The government has decided in principle to fully transition Pakistan’s passport issuance system to an e-passport framework as part of sweeping reforms approved in a high-level meeting held at the Passport and Immigration Headquarters.
The meeting was chaired by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, where officials reviewed the current system and approved large-scale modernization measures aimed at improving security, efficiency, and public service delivery.
Shift to e-passport system
Officials confirmed that the entire passport issuance process will be gradually shifted to a digital e-passport system in phases. The move is aimed at reducing forgery, eliminating fraud, and strengthening document security.
Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the introduction of e-passports will enhance transparency and make the system more secure and efficient for citizens.
Doorstep delivery and premium services
The meeting was informed that preparations for home delivery of passports, both within Pakistan and abroad, have been completed. The service is expected to begin soon, allowing citizens to receive passports at their doorstep.
It was also decided that users opting for premium passport services will be charged according to the actual cost of service delivery.
In a major digital shift, authorities decided to introduce a cashless payment system in all passport offices across the country starting July 1.
Additionally, all online passport applications will be migrated to the Pak ID platform to streamline the application process and improve accessibility.
Policy and administrative reforms
The meeting also directed officials to finalize the business passport policy in consultation with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) at the earliest.
Director General Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa briefed the minister on ongoing system upgrades and proposed reforms.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the e-passport system will significantly reduce identity fraud and improve the overall credibility of travel documents issued by Pakistan.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to modernizing public services through digital transformation and improving citizen convenience.
