The federal government has announced stricter rules for issuing official blue passports after facing criticism over a proposed law that would extend the facility to dependent children of former parliamentarians.
The move signals a policy shift as authorities aim to reduce the number of blue passport holders. At the same time, the government wants to ensure these passports remain reserved for official purposes only.
Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry said every future application for an official blue passport would require approval from the Interior Ministry. He explained that these passports should only be issued for official duties and for a limited period.
Moreover, he said the government intends to strengthen oversight to prevent unnecessary issuance.
Every Application to Undergo Higher-Level Scrutiny
According to Tallal Chaudhry, every application will now undergo detailed scrutiny before approval.
He said the interior secretary will review each request. Furthermore, cases requiring additional consideration will also be examined by the interior minister before receiving final approval.
The government believes this process will improve transparency and ensure official passports are issued only when genuinely required.
Number of Blue Passport Holders Already Reduced
The minister stated that the government has already reduced the number of official blue passport holders.
According to him, the figure has declined from nearly 70,000 to fewer than 50,000.
Additionally, the government plans to cut this number by another 15 to 20 percent.
He maintained that limiting the issuance of official passports remains a key policy objective.
Visa Waiver Talks Linked to Passport Reforms
Tallal Chaudhry said reducing the number of blue passport holders could also support Pakistan’s efforts to secure visa waiver agreements with other countries.
He explained that the large number of official passport holders has created challenges during negotiations.
According to the minister, Pakistan is currently holding advanced discussions with Saudi Arabia regarding visa exemptions for blue passport holders.
Meanwhile, negotiations with Italy and several other countries are also continuing.
Bill Still Awaits Final Political Decision
Earlier this month, a Senate committee approved a bill proposing official blue passports for the dependent children of former members of parliament.
However, Tallal Chaudhry clarified that the proposal has not become final government policy.
He said the coalition government will ultimately decide the bill’s future.
Moreover, he maintained that the proposal does not align with the government’s broader policy of restricting the issuance of blue passports.
The latest announcement reflects the government’s intention to tighten regulations while reviewing any expansion of eligibility for official passports. Authorities also maintain that stricter controls could strengthen administrative oversight and support Pakistan’s diplomatic objectives regarding international travel.
