ISLAMABAD – The Director General of Passports has shared details about the changes to Pakistan’s passport, confirming that the passport design has been updated and security features have been strengthened.
He stated this while giving a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Interior and added that the Pakistani passport is still invalid for Israel.
The committee members commended the director general of passports for addressing the passport-related issues raised by senators.
Spokesperson Ahmed Iqbal stated that the new passport design and enhanced security features have already been approved by the Ministry of Interior.
Passport Features Update
Key updates include the color change of visa pages, integration of biometric data with NADRA’s system, and the addition of modern security measures like holograms, laser engravings, UV watermarks, and digital verification codes to prevent forgery.
Update on Fee Structure
Regarding possible fee changes, the spokesperson clarified that no final decision has been made yet.
Additionally, NADRA announced that the old B-form will no longer be accepted for passport applications, and digital identification documents will be required for children’s registration.
It’s important to note that Pakistan introduced machine-readable passports in 2004, security updates in 2016, and e-passports in 2022.
With the upcoming overhaul in 2025, Pakistan aims to significantly upgrade the passport’s design and security system.
Meanwhile, 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.
