Government Moves to Modernise Issuance System Nationwide
ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Interior has approved a series of major reforms aimed at modernising Pakistan’s passport system, including a complete transition to electronic passports and the introduction of new digital services to improve efficiency and security.
The decisions were finalised during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Passport and Immigration Headquarters. Under the new policy, passport issuance will gradually move entirely to the e-passport system, a step officials say will help eliminate fraud, forgery, and document tampering.
Furthermore, online passport applications will be integrated into the Pak-ID platform, enabling citizens to access services through a unified digital system. Authorities believe the move will streamline procedures and improve user convenience.
In addition, all passport offices across the country will adopt a fully cashless payment system from July 1, reducing manual transactions and enhancing transparency.
Home Delivery Service and New Business Passport Policy Planned
Meanwhile, the ministry has also finalised the initial framework for introducing passport home delivery services within Pakistan and abroad. The initiative aims to ensure citizens receive their passports directly at their residences, reducing the need for repeated visits to passport offices.
Officials further revealed that a new business passport policy is being developed in consultation with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The policy is expected to facilitate business travellers while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
The interior minister also directed that applicants opting for premium passport services will be charged according to the actual costs incurred in providing those facilities.
During the meeting, Director General of Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa briefed participants on the implementation roadmap for the reforms and ongoing digitisation efforts.
The reforms build upon the launch of the SHIKRA monitoring system earlier this year. Officially known as Secure Hybrid Intelligence for Knowledge-based Response Analytics, the platform enables round-the-clock monitoring of the passport process, from application submission and printing to final delivery in Pakistan and at overseas missions.
Officials said the latest measures represent a significant step toward a fully digitised, secure, and citizen-friendly passport management system.
