Pakistan has launched e-passport services across the country and its diplomatic missions worldwide, bringing modern passport facilities to citizens at home and abroad. The move marks a significant step towards improving passport services through advanced technology and stronger security measures. Officials say the initiative supports Pakistan’s efforts to meet international passport standards.
The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports confirmed the launch on October 23, 2026. According to the directorate, the development follows the prime minister’s vision and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s instructions. The department credited its team’s continued efforts for making the rollout possible.
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The new e-passports include modern security features and follow international standards. Authorities consider the introduction an important development in upgrading Pakistan’s passport system. The initiative also extends the updated service to Pakistani citizens living overseas through diplomatic missions.
However, citizens holding existing machine-readable passports do not need to replace them immediately. The directorate confirmed that these documents will remain valid until their printed expiry dates. This arrangement allows current passport holders to continue using their existing travel documents without an immediate change.
Under the new system, authorities will issue e-passports to applicants receiving new passports. The policy establishes the electronic format for new passport issuance while preserving the validity of previously issued documents. Citizens can therefore follow the updated process when applying for their next passport.
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The rollout reflects the government’s wider effort to modernise public services through improved systems and security standards. Officials described the development as a milestone for Pakistan’s passport services. Its availability at diplomatic missions also brings the updated facility to Pakistanis living in different countries.
The government has linked the initiative to its vision of “One Nation, One Passport, One Identity.” The directorate has presented the launch as progress towards a more modern and unified passport system. Existing machine-readable passports will remain usable until expiry, while new applicants will receive e-passports under the updated arrangement.