ISLAMABAD – Pakistani passport has earned a place among the world’s top 100 passports, following notable advancements in its global ranking.
The announcement was made by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, during a session in the National Assembly.
Chaudhry highlighted that the improvement in Pakistan’s passport ranking is a result of extensive reforms and technical upgrades implemented by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports.
The government has also negotiated visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders with 50 countries, a move set to enhance Pakistan’s international mobility. Ongoing discussions are underway to expand these agreements with additional nations.
A key part of the upgrade has been the introduction of a modern e-passport personalization system.
This new system enhances the security features of Machine Readable Passports (MRPs), making it more difficult for fraudulent activity to occur.
The government has also been transitioning toward e-passports that adhere to the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This will allow Pakistani citizens to benefit from e-gate facilities at domestic and international airports, making travel more efficient.
The new e-passports feature biometric microchips, a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved details, and visa pages that reflect Pakistan’s cultural heritage. For the first time, the name of the mother has been included in the passports of children.
Chaudhry noted that these advancements have not only bolstered Pakistan’s international reputation but also improved relations with Islamic countries and other friendly nations. The reforms have received widespread praise, and the government remains committed to furthering Pakistan’s global standing through these diplomatic and technological efforts.
With these upgrades, Pakistan is well-positioned to maintain its positive momentum, with the aim of strengthening its passport’s value on the world stage.
