Pakistanis Can No Longer Apply for Machine-Readable Passports

Pakistan's passport offices and diplomatic missions abroad, such as those in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations, commenced issuing e-passports starting October 15. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports announced the cessation of machine-readable passport issuance. The agency had designated October 14 as the final date for accepting applications for machine-readable passports.

Applicants are now only eligible to apply for e-passports from October 15 onwards. Existing machine-readable passports will continue to be valid until their respective expiry dates and will not automatically become invalid. The new e-passport system is intended to enhance passport security and align Pakistani travel documents with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Officials assert that the transition will also facilitate the use of electronic gates at both domestic and international travel facilities. The e-passport incorporates a contactless near-field communication (NFC) chip that stores the holder’s biometric data, facial characteristics, identification number, and digital signature. Additionally, the passport features security measures aimed at thwarting forgery attempts.