ISLAMABAD – The government has decided to facilitate overseas Pakistanis holding dual nationality, particularly those preparing to perform Hajj in 2027, by expediting the security clearance process required for obtaining their first Pakistani passport.
Director General Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa, following consultations with Director General Intelligence Bureau Fawad Asadullah Khan, has directed that security clearances for dual-nationality overseas Pakistanis seeking their first Pakistani passport for Hajj be completed on a priority basis.
A formal circular has also been sent to Pakistani missions around the world regarding the new arrangements.
Passport authorities have issued a special form for applicants seeking passports for Hajj. Applicants will be required to provide the requested information on the form and submit it along with their passport application at the relevant Pakistani embassy.
The initiative is aimed at reducing delays in security clearance and enabling eligible dual-nationality Pakistanis to receive their passports in time to complete their Hajj applications.
Previously, applicants obtaining a Pakistani passport for the first time while holding dual nationality could reportedly face waits of several months for security clearance, potentially creating difficulties in making timely Hajj preparations.
The facility has been introduced particularly for overseas Pakistanis intending to perform Hajj.
Overseas Pakistanis Welfare Council Chairman Naeem Naqashbandi had also met DG Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa around two weeks earlier. The meeting discussed issues faced by Pakistanis living abroad and ways to improve communication between the government and overseas Pakistanis.
