Passport Authority of Pakistan reports impressive growth
Pakistan’s passport authority is making big changes. More people are getting passports than ever before. The process is getting faster and easier. Even if you’re new to this, you’ll find all you need here.
Why Is Everyone Talking About Passports?
People need passports for travel, work, and study abroad. Demand is high. The government is working hard to meet this demand. They want everyone to get a passport with less hassle.
Record-Breaking Passport Issuance
In just two years, over 13 million passports were issued. That’s almost double the usual number. In 17 years, more than 55 million passports have been given out. This shows how many people want to travel or work outside Pakistan.
How the Passport Process Got Better
The passport office is now open 24/7 in big cities. You can apply anytime. New counters and machines help print passports faster. More than 130,000 overseas Pakistanis used the online portal last year alone.
What’s an e-passport?
An e-passport has a chip inside. It stores your photo and fingerprints. This makes it safer and easier to use at airports. Many countries have e-passports. Pakistan started giving them out recently.
How to Apply for a Passport
You can apply online or at an office. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Go to the passport office or website.
- Step 2: Show your CNIC or NICOP.
- Step 3: Pay the fee (you can pay online).
- Step 4: Get your photo and fingerprints taken.
- Step 5: Wait for your passport to be ready.
You can track your application online. No need to visit the office again and again.
Passport Fees and Processing Times
Here’s a table to help you understand the costs and how long it takes:
| Passport Type | Normal Fee (PKR) | Urgent Fee (PKR) | Processing Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 Pages (5 years) | 4,500 | 7,500 | 21 (Normal), 5 (Urgent), 2 (Fast Track) |
| 36 Pages (10 years) | 6,700 | 11,200 | Same as above |
| 72 Pages (5 years) | 8,200 | 13,500 | Same as above |
| 100 Pages (10 years) | 12,400 | 20,200 | Same as above |
You can pay at any National Bank branch or online.
Online Passport Renewal
Renewing your passport is easy. Just go to the official website. Fill in your details. Upload your documents. Pay online. No need to visit the office. You’ll get updates by email.
Who Can Apply?
Any Pakistani citizen can apply. You need your CNIC or NICOP. If you’re overseas, you can apply at the embassy or online.
New Features for Overseas Pakistanis
Overseas Pakistanis can apply for and renew passports online. They can track their application and get their passport mailed to them. No need to visit the embassy in person.
How the Government Is Making Things Easier
The government is buying new machines. They are opening more offices. Staff are trained to help you. Complaints are resolved quickly. Over 73,000 complaints were solved last year.
Why These Changes Matter
More passports mean more opportunities. People can travel, work, and study abroad. The country earns more money from passport fees. The process is now faster and more reliable.
What’s an E-Gate?
E-gates are special gates at airports. You scan your e-passport and go through quickly. No need to wait in long lines. Pakistan is rolling out e-gates in major airports.
How to Update Your Passport Details
If you need to change your name or photo, bring your updated CNIC. You’ll get a new passport. The old one will be canceled.
What’s Next for Pakistan’s Passport Authority?
The government plans to open more offices. They want to make the process even faster. More people will get passports without waiting long.
Comparison Old vs New Passport System
| Feature | Old System | New System |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Only in office | Online and in office |
| Processing Time | 30+ days | 21 days (normal), 2-5 days (urgent) |
| Tracking | No online tracking | Online tracking |
| Overseas Application | Only at embassy | Online and at embassy |
| Passport Type | Only paper | Paper and e-passport |
FAQs
Can I apply for a passport online?
Yes, you can apply for and renew your passport online. Overseas Pakistanis can also apply online.
What documents do I Need?
You need your CNIC or NICOP, a paid fee receipt, and your old passport if you have one.
How much does a passport cost?
A 36-page passport for 5 years costs PKR 4,500 (normal) or PKR 7,500 (urgent).
What is an e-passport?
An e-passport has a chip with your photo and fingerprints. It’s safer and easier to use at airports.
Can I update my passport details?
Yes, bring your updated CNIC. You’ll get a new passport. The old one will be canceled.
How can I check my application status?
You can track your application online. You’ll also get updates by email.
Final Thought:
Pakistan’s passport authority is growing fast. More people are getting passports. The process is easier and faster. You can apply online, track your application, and get your passport without stress. If you need a passport, now is the best time to apply.
