Pakistan’s passport offices and diplomatic missions abroad, including those in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, began issuing e-passports on October 15. Authorities have ended the issuance of machine-readable passports.
The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports had set October 14 as the last date for accepting applications for machine-readable passports. From October 15, applicants can apply only for e-passports.
Existing machine-readable passports will remain valid until their expiry dates and will not become invalid immediately. The new e-passport system aims to improve passport security and bring Pakistani travel documents in line with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Officials say the transition will also support the use of electronic gates at domestic and international travel facilities.
The e-passport contains a contactless near-field communication (NFC) chip that stores the holder’s biodata, facial details, identification number, and digital signature. It also includes security features designed to prevent forgery.
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