Pakistanis Seeking Asylum Abroad to Lose Passport: What It Means in 2025
Imagine packing your bags, leaving everything behind, and hoping for a safer life in another country. Now, picture finding out your own country might take away your passport just because you asked for asylum. That’s the reality many Pakistanis faced in 2025. This guide explains what happened, what’s changed, and what it means for you or someone you know.
Pakistanis Seeking Asylum Abroad to Lose Passport: The Big News
In June 2025, Pakistan’s government announced a new rule: any Pakistani who applied for or received asylum abroad would lose their passport. Not only that, but their national ID card could be blocked too. This move was meant to protect “national security,” but it caused a lot of fear and confusion for thousands of Pakistanis overseas.
But wait-there’s more to the story. After a few weeks of protests and international criticism, the government reversed the decision. Now, Pakistanis abroad-including asylum seekers-can get their passports renewed again, though it may take up to 60 days.
Pakistanis Seeking Asylum Abroad to Lose Passport Online: What Happened?
The original policy was meant to be strict. If you were living abroad and had applied for asylum, Pakistani authorities told embassies not to renew or issue you a passport. This was enforced through online systems and embassy records
People worried about being stuck in a foreign country with no travel documents. Many feared they’d become “stateless,” unable to travel or even prove their identity.
Pakistanis Seeking Asylum Abroad to Lose Passport Status: Where Does It Stand Now?
The government changed its mind in July 2025. Now, if you’re a Pakistani living abroad-even if you’ve applied for asylum-you can get your passport renewed. There’s a catch: it might take up to 60 days, instead of the usual 7–30 days.
Authorities say this is to make sure everything is checked properly. But at least you won’t be left without a passport.
Why Did Pakistan Try to Ban Passports for Asylum Seekers?
The government said it was about national security and international commitments. They were worried about people abusing the system or damaging Pakistan’s reputation.
But critics say it was unfair. Many asylum seekers are running from violence, threats, or discrimination. Taking away their passports just made things worse for them.
Which Country Is Best for Pakistani Asylum Seekers?
Let’s be real: there’s no “best” country. But some places are more welcoming than others. Here’s a quick look at where Pakistanis often apply for asylum:
- United States: Many Pakistanis seek asylum here, especially those facing religious or political persecution.
- Canada: Known for a fair asylum process and support for refugees.
- Germany and Norway: Popular in Europe, but the process can be tough and slow.
- Azerbaijan: Some Pakistanis try here, but it’s less common.
Each country has its own rules, waiting times, and chances of success. Always check the latest info before you decide.
Which Countries Can Pakistani Visit Without Visa?
Traveling with a Pakistani passport isn’t always easy. As of 2025, you can visit 11 countries visa-free, and 41 more with an eVisa or visa on arrival.
Visa-Free Countries for Pakistani Passport Holders:
| Country | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|
| Barbados | 3 months |
| Cook Islands | 31 days |
| Dominica | 6 months |
| Haiti | 3 months |
| Micronesia | 30 days |
| Montserrat | 6 months |
| Qatar | 30 days |
| Saint Vincent & the Grenadines | 3 months |
| Samoa | 60 days |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Varies |
| Vanuatu | 30 days |
Tip: Rules change often. Always check with the embassy before you travel.
Where Can I Go Without Visa With Pakistani Passport?
If you want to travel without a visa, your options are limited but real. The countries listed above welcome Pakistanis without a visa for short stays. For longer stays or work, you’ll need a visa.
Where Can Pakistani Passport Travel Without Visa?
Besides the visa-free countries, you can also get a visa on arrival or an eVisa in places like Kenya, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, and more7. Here’s a quick info box:
Info Box:
As of 2025, Pakistani passport holders can travel to 52 countries without a pre-arranged visa (11 visa-free, 41 eVisa/visa on arrival)7.
Can I Apply for Asylum from Pakistan?
Short answer: No, not really. You can’t apply for asylum in another country while sitting in Pakistan. You usually need to be in that country or at its border to ask for asylum.
For example, to seek asylum in Canada, you must arrive there first-at the airport or a land border. The same goes for Azerbaijan and most other countries.
Pakistani Asylum Seekers in USA
Many Pakistanis apply for asylum in the US, especially those fleeing religious or political threats. The US asylum process is strict and can take years. You need to prove you face serious harm in Pakistan and that you can’t get help from your own government.
Pakistani Asylum Seekers in Canada
Canada is known for being fair to asylum seekers. You can apply at the airport when you land, or at a land border. Officers will check your documents, ask questions, and decide if you can stay8.
If you’re already in Canada, you can also apply online. The process can be long, but you get legal help and a chance to explain your story.
Pakistani Asylum Seekers in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan isn’t a top destination, but some Pakistanis go there. You must be in Azerbaijan to apply for asylum. The State Migration Service handles applications, and the UNHCR can offer legal advice.
Asylum Seekers from Pakistan: Why Do People Leave?
People leave Pakistan for many reasons:
- Religious persecution (especially minorities)
- Political threats or violence
- Fear of blasphemy accusations
- Domestic violence or forced marriage
- Lack of protection from authorities
Sometimes, people just want a better life for their kids. It’s not always about danger-sometimes it’s about hope.
Visa Free Countries for Pakistani Blue Passport
The “blue passport” is the ordinary Pakistani passport. With it, you can visit 11 countries visa-free and 41 more with eVisa or visa on arrival.
Asylum for Pakistani: What’s the Process?
Every country is different, but here’s a simple breakdown:
- Arrive in the country where you want asylum.
- Declare your wish to seek asylum (at the airport, border, or immigration office).
- Go through interviews and paperwork.
- Wait for a decision-sometimes months or years.
- If approved, you get refugee status. If not, you may have to leave.
Pakistanis Seeking Asylum Abroad to Lose Passport: The Human Side
The passport ban hit hardest for people already struggling. Many Pakistani asylum seekers are religious minorities, women, or activists. Losing their passport meant losing the chance to travel, work, or even get help from embassies.
Rights groups and church leaders called the ban “unjust” and “dangerous.” They said it could leave people stateless, unable to return home or move forward.
Tracking Your Pakistani Passport Online
If you’re worried about your passport status, you can check it online. Here’s how:
- Visit the official tracking portal.
- Enter your token number and registered mobile.
- Or, send your CNIC or application number by SMS to 8400.
- You’ll get updates on your application’s progress.
If you’re overseas, check with your local Pakistani embassy-they may have their own tracking system6.
What Happens If Your Passport Is Blocked?
If your passport is blocked, you can’t travel or renew it. You might not be able to get a visa, open a bank account, or even prove your identity. That’s why the reversal of the ban was such a relief for many Pakistanis abroad.
Table: Countries Popular with Pakistani Asylum Seekers
| Country | Popularity | Main Reasons for Asylum |
|---|---|---|
| USA | High | Religion, politics |
| Canada | High | Religion, safety |
| Germany | Medium | Politics, minorities |
| Norway | Medium | Safety, minorities |
| Azerbaijan | Low | Safety, proximity |
Tips for Pakistani Asylum Seekers
- Always keep copies of your documents.
- Stay in touch with your embassy, even if you’re seeking asylum.
- Get legal advice before applying for asylum.
- Don’t overstay your visa in another country-it can hurt your case.
- Check the latest rules-policies change fast.
Info Box: Why Did the Ban Get Reversed?
After the ban, there were protests from rights groups, religious leaders, and the international community. People said the move was unfair and could make things worse for those already at risk. The government listened and reversed the decision in July 2025.
Where Can Pakistanis Go Without Visa? (Quick List)
- Barbados
- Dominica
- Haiti
- Micronesia
- Montserrat
- Qatar
- Samoa
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Cook Islands
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Vanuatu
For eVisa/visa on arrival: Kenya, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, and more7.
Can You Apply for Asylum from Pakistan?
No. You must be in the country where you want to seek asylum, or at its border. You can’t apply for asylum from inside Pakistan.
Pakistani Asylum Seekers: The Challenges
Life as an asylum seeker isn’t easy. You might face long waits, tough interviews, and uncertainty. But many find hope and safety in their new countries.
FAQs
What happens if my passport is blocked?
You won’t be able to travel, renew your passport, or access many services. Always check your status online or with your embassy.
Which countries are best for Pakistani asylum seekers?
The US, Canada, Germany, and Norway are popular due to their asylum policies and support systems.
Can I apply for asylum from Pakistan?
No. You must be in the country where you want to seek asylum, or at its border.
Where can I travel without a visa on a Pakistani passport?
You can visit 11 countries visa-free and 41 more with eVisa or visa on arrival.
How do I track my Pakistani passport status?
Use the online portal or SMS service with your token number and registered mobile.
Why did Pakistan try to ban passports for asylum seekers?
The government cited national security, but critics say it was unfair to vulnerable people.
Conclusion
The story of Pakistanis seeking asylum abroad and the passport ban is a rollercoaster. First, the government blocked passports for asylum seekers, causing panic and hardship. But after public outcry, the policy was reversed. Now, Pakistani asylum seekers can renew their passports, though it may take longer.
If you’re thinking about seeking asylum, know your rights, keep your documents safe, and always check the latest rules. The world is always changing, but hope and help are still out there.
