Passport Backlog and Printing Issues Resolved in Major Pakistani Cities
Ever felt stuck waiting for your passport, even after paying extra for urgent service? You’re not alone. In 2024, thousands of Pakistanis faced long delays, missed flights, and lost job or study opportunities-all because of passport printing problems. But here’s the big update: the backlog and printing issues have finally been resolved in major cities, according to the DG Immigration and Passports.
Let’s break down what happened, how it affects you, and what’s next for passport seekers in Pakistan.
Passport Backlog: What Went Wrong?
Just a few months ago, getting a passport in Pakistan felt like a never-ending wait. People who applied for normal, urgent, and even fast-track passports were stuck for weeks-or even months. Some paid extra for urgent processing, only to wait just as long as everyone else.
Why did this happen? It wasn’t just one thing. Here’s what went wrong:
- Old Printing Machines: The machines could only print about 20,000-23,000 passports a day, but demand was double that.
- Ink and Paper Shortages: Sometimes, passport offices ran out of ink or lamination paper, stopping production for days.
- Technical Glitches: Internet outages and computer system failures slowed things down even more.
- Huge Demand: With more Pakistanis traveling for work, study, or family, the number of applications skyrocketed-up to 50,000 a day.
Who Suffered Most?
Let’s be real: the delays weren’t just annoying-they were life-changing for some.
- Students missed university deadlines abroad.
- Patients needing urgent medical treatment couldn’t travel.
- Job seekers lost overseas work opportunities.
- Families missed out on pilgrimages or visiting loved ones.
Imagine paying for a fast-track passport and still missing your flight. Frustrating, right?
How Big Was the Backlog?
The numbers were huge. At one point, over 500,000 people were waiting for passports, even after paying all their fees. Some reports even mentioned millions of pending applications, although that might have been a typo. Either way, the problem was massive.
What Did the Government Do?
The government knew things had to change. Here’s how they tackled the crisis:
1. Imported New Printing Machines
- Ten new high-speed printers arrived in late 2024.
- These doubled the daily printing capacity to 40,000-45,000 passports.
- More advanced machines are on the way, including special ones for e-passports.
2. 24/7 Passport Counters
- Passport offices in major cities now work around the clock, including weekends.
- You can collect your Passport Backlog any time, day or night, from any of the 227 offices nationwide.
3. Cleared Ink and Paper Bottlenecks
- The government worked with customs and suppliers to speed up delivery of ink and lamination paper.
- No more production stoppages due to missing supplies.
4. Staff Worked Overtime
- Staff worked 24/7, even on holidays, to clear the backlog.
- Special recognition and rewards were given to top-performing teams.
Current Status: Backlog Cleared in Major Cities
As of January 2025, the DG Immigration and Passports, Mustafa Jamal Qazi, announced that the backlog in major cities is gone.
- All categories-normal, urgent, and fast-track-are now up to date.
- Over 3.3 million passports have been printed since July 2024.
- The online portal’s backlog of 24,000 applications is also cleared.
Table: Passport Printing Capacity Before & After
| Time Period | Daily Printing Capacity | Backlog Status |
|---|---|---|
| Before Sept 2024 | 20,000–23,000 | Up to 500,000+ pending |
| After New Machines | 40,000–45,000+ | Cleared in big cities |
| Target (by end 2025) | 60,000+ | Aiming for zero |
What About Smaller Cities?
The government started with big cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where most travel demand comes from. Now, they’re moving to resolve issues in smaller cities and rural areas. If you live outside a major city, expect improvements soon.
How to Get Your Passport Now
Good news: the process is much smoother now. Here’s what you should do:
- Apply as Usual: Submit your application at any Passport Backlog office or online.
- Track Your Status: Use the official portal or SMS service to check progress.
- Collect Anytime: Once notified, collect your passport from any office, 24/7 in major cities.
- Bring ID: Don’t forget your CNIC and application slip.
Tips for a Smooth Passport Experience
- Double-check documents before visiting the office.
- Pay fees at any National Bank branch-it’s easier now.
- Use fast-track service if you’re in a real hurry (but it costs more).
- Check office timings-many now operate 24/7, especially in big cities.
- Ask for help at the info desk if you’re unsure about any step.
Info Box: Fast-Track vs. Normal Passport
| Category | Processing Time (Now) | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 21 working days | Standard fee |
| Urgent | 5–7 working days | Extra fee |
| Fast-Track | 2–3 working days | Highest fee (Rs 20,000–27,000) |
Real Stories: How Delays Affected Lives
Let’s hear it straight from people who were stuck in the backlog:
“I missed my job interview in Qatar because my urgent Passport Backlog took 67 days instead of 21. The wait was stressful and costly.” – Abdullah, Islamabad
“We paid for fast-track, but our passports were delayed for months. My father needed surgery abroad, and we almost missed his treatment.” – Sara, Karachi
Why Did This Happen? (A Quick Look)
- Old Tech: Machines from 2004 just couldn’t keep up with today’s demand.
- More Applicants: More people want to travel for work, study, or family reasons.
- Supply Delays: Even a missing ink cartridge could stop printing for days.
- Manual Processes: Some offices still used slow, manual steps.
- Internet Issues: Outages sometimes froze the whole system.
What’s New for 2025 and Beyond?
- More Machines Coming: By the end of 2025, daily printing should reach 60,000 passports.
- Biometric Upgrades: Facial recognition for those who can’t use fingerprints.
- Model Centers: Karachi and Lahore will get brand-new, modern Passport Backlog centers.
- Online Services: More services are moving online, making it easier to apply from home.
- Consultative Conferences: Experts are meeting to keep improving the system.
Table: Passport Services Upgrades Timeline
| Upgrade | Date Started | Cities Covered |
|---|---|---|
| New printers imported | Oct 2024 | All major cities |
| 24/7 counters launched | Jan 2025 | Karachi, Islamabad, expanding to 14 more |
| Facial recognition | Jan 2025 | Nationwide |
| Model centers planned | 2025 | Karachi, Lahore |
What Should You Do If You’re Still Waiting?
- Visit your nearest passport office with your application slip and CNIC.
- Ask for your status at the info desk.
- Use the online portal for tracking.
- Contact the DGIP helpline if you face unusual delays.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead
The passport crisis was tough. But thanks to new machines, 24/7 counters, and a lot of hard work by the Passport Backlog teams, the worst is over-at least in the big cities. If you’re applying now, expect a smoother, faster process. And if you’re still waiting, help is on the way.
(FAQs)
How long does it take to get a passport now?
Normal: 21 working days. Urgent: 5–7 days. Fast-track: 2–3 days. Delays are rare now.
Can I collect my passport at night or on weekends?
Yes! Many offices now work 24/7, especially in big cities.
4. What if I applied before the backlog was cleared?
Check your status online or at the office. Most old applications have been processed, but bring your slip just in case.
Are there still delays in smaller cities?
Some smaller cities may face short delays, but improvements are ongoing.
How do I track my passport application?
Use the official portal, SMS service, or call the helpline for updates.
Will passport fees change?
No major changes announced yet, but always check the latest fee schedule at your local office or online.
