In Lahore, the Pakistani government provides passports to its citizens to ensure their safe and protected travel across the globe. A valid Pakistani passport not only facilitates international travel but also guarantees the holder’s right to protection by Pakistan’s diplomatic and consular representatives abroad. This document serves as the primary means of verifying a Pakistani citizen’s identity in foreign nations.
The Directorate General of Immigration & Passports, operating under the Ministry of Interior, holds the authority to process passport applications and issue them to citizens, following specific requirements.
Applying for a New Pakistani Passport
Where to Apply?
For those residing in Pakistan and applying for a passport for the first time, the Regional Passport Office is your go-to destination.
Application Process Overview
Obtaining a new Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) involves a straightforward process at the Regional Passport Offices across Pakistan. Here’s what applicants can expect:
- Arriving at the Customer Service Counter: Your first step upon arrival.
- Processing Fee Verification: This includes capturing your photograph, issuing a token, and recording biometrics/fingerprints.
- Entering Your Data: Applicants’ details are entered into the system.
- Verification Against Records: This step involves checking against the Exit Control List (ECL) and Blacklist (BL).
- Interview and Assessment: Conducted by the Assistant Director for final approval.
- Collecting Your Passport: The final step where you receive your new passport.
New Fee Structure for Pakistani Passports
As of February 2024, the Pakistani government has introduced a new fee structure for passport issuance. The updated fees aim to streamline the process, making it more accessible and efficient for citizens. While this article does not list the specific fee amounts, applicants are advised to check the official Directorate General of Immigration & Passports website or contact their nearest Regional Passport Office for the most current fee information. This ensures that applicants have all the necessary details before starting their application process.
In conclusion, the Pakistani government’s update to the passport fee structure reflects its commitment to facilitating citizens’ international travel needs. By following the outlined application process and being aware of the latest fee structure, Pakistani citizens can ensure a smooth experience in obtaining their travel documents.