According to a new policy issued by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, conventional machine-readable passports (MRPs) will continue to be issued and renewed through October 22. From October 23, all new passport applicants will receive e-passports, ending the issuance of traditional machine-readable passports.
The deadline had previously been set for October 15, but authorities have granted an additional extension.
Existing Passports Will Remain Valid
Officials have clarified that machine-readable passports issued before October 23 will not be cancelled. They will remain valid until their printed expiry dates.
Citizens holding valid MRP passports will not need to replace them immediately or apply for e-passports before their current documents expire.
The clarification aims to address public concerns and confusion surrounding the transition to the new system.
According to the authorities, the shift to e-passports is intended to modernise Pakistan’s passport services and bring travel documentation in line with international standards.
The new system is expected to strengthen document security, improve transparency and enhance operational efficiency, potentially making international travel more secure and convenient for Pakistani citizens.
The policy will apply to passport offices across Pakistan as well as Pakistani diplomatic missions worldwide.