Government plans complete transition to e-passports, cashless services, and PakID app to enhance efficiency and curb fraud.
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to implement sweeping reforms in Pakistan’s passport system aimed at improving service delivery, enhancing security, and eliminating fraudulent practices.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Directorate General of Passports and Immigration headquarters in Islamabad. Senior officials reviewed proposals to modernize the existing passport mechanism and discussed measures to make the system more efficient and citizen-friendly.
One of the key decisions taken during the meeting was the in-principle approval for a complete transition from conventional passports to the e-passport system. Authorities believe that the move will significantly strengthen security features and help prevent forgery and illegal tampering of travel documents.
The meeting also approved a revised fee structure for premium passport services. Citizens opting for fast-track or premium facilities will be required to pay charges based on the actual expenses incurred in providing these services.
In another major development, passport offices across the country will adopt a cashless payment system from the first day of next month. The initiative is expected to improve transparency and streamline payment procedures for applicants.
Furthermore, online passport application services will be integrated with the PakID mobile application, enabling citizens to access passport-related services digitally without visiting offices unnecessarily.
Addressing the meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the complete shift to e-passports would play a vital role in eliminating fraud and forgery in passport issuance. He also directed officials to finalize a policy framework for introducing business passports in consultation with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
Officials informed the meeting that preliminary work for launching home delivery services for passports, both within Pakistan and overseas, has already been completed.
Director General Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa gave a detailed briefing to the interior minister regarding the ongoing modernization plans and future reforms in the passport system.
