The federal government is poised to introduce major reforms in the passport application process, aiming to enhance convenience for citizens across Pakistan.
The proposed changes include the removal of city restrictions for passport applications, allowing individuals to apply from any city within the country, rather than being limited to their home city.
According to reports, the Ministry of Interior has forwarded a summary of the proposed rule changes to the federal cabinet. Should the cabinet grant its approval, the new regulations are expected to be implemented without delay, marking a significant shift in passport issuance procedures.
Key Changes in passport rules
- Removal of city restrictions: Under the new rules, citizens will no longer be confined to submitting their passport applications in their city of residence. This change is set to streamline the application process, making it more accessible for applicants residing away from their home city
- Fee payment flexibility: The updated rules also propose that passport application fees can be deposited at any branch of the National Bank of Pakistan, replacing the previous requirement of paying fees at designated branches only.
Revised passport fees
The fee structure for passport applications has been revised as follows, effective August 2024:
- Standard 36-Page Passport (5 Years):
- Regular Processing: Rs 4,500
- Urgent Processing: Rs 7,500 (increased from Rs 5,000)
- Standard 36-Page Passport (10 Years):
- Regular Processing: Rs 6,700
- Urgent Processing: Rs 11,200 (increased from Rs 7,500)
- 72-Page Passport (5 Years):
- Regular Processing: Rs 8,200
- Urgent Processing: Rs 13,500 (increased from Rs 10,000)
- 100-Page Passport (10 Years):
- Regular Processing: Rs 12,400
- Urgent Processing: Rs 20,200 (increased from Rs 15,000)
These changes aim to simplify the passport application process and provide greater flexibility to Pakistani citizens, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving public services.