The government plans to phase out machine-readable passports, while existing documents will remain valid until expiry.
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Pakistan plans to discontinue the issuance of machine-readable passports (MRPs) within a month and transition to electronic passports (e-passports), the National Assembly was informed on Friday.
According to the Ministry of Interior’s response presented in the National Assembly, passport offices across Pakistan and Pakistani missions abroad are expected to issue only e-passports after the transition.
However, machine-readable passports that have already been issued will remain valid until their respective expiry dates. Holders do not need to treat their existing passports as immediately invalid because of the announced policy.
Government outlines e-passport transition
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhary told the House that the government was working to replace the existing passport system with electronic passports.
The minister said the new system was expected to be introduced within approximately a month. He also acknowledged that Pakistan’s large population and operational challenges at passport offices could affect the implementation timeline.
The announcement forms part of the government’s efforts to modernise passport services and bring the country’s travel-document system in line with changing international immigration requirements.
How e-passports differ from machine-readable passports
Electronic passports contain an embedded electronic chip that stores the passport holder’s biometric and personal information. The chip can support identity verification and help authorities detect tampering or fraudulent use.
The government has cited improved security as a major reason for moving towards the electronic system. However, the technology should not be described as making forgery absolutely impossible; its purpose is to strengthen document security and verification.
E-passports are used in a number of countries and can support compatible automated border-control systems where such facilities are available.
What happens to existing Pakistani passports?
Pakistani citizens who already hold machine-readable passports can continue using them until their stated expiry dates, according to the government’s announcement.
The planned transition concerns the issuance of new passports. It does not mean that every previously issued machine-readable passport becomes invalid as soon as the new system is introduced.
Citizens preparing to apply for a new passport should check the latest instructions issued by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports or their relevant Pakistani mission abroad.
Applicants should also confirm the applicable fees, processing times and document requirements before submitting an application, as these details may vary by service and location.
Rollout timeline and implementation challenges
The government has indicated that the transition is expected within a month, while warning that administrative and operational constraints could cause delays.
The precise implementation arrangements for every passport office and diplomatic mission should be confirmed through official notices. Reports of e-passport issuance beginning at particular locations should not automatically be interpreted as confirmation that the nationwide transition has been completed.
