Asia Pacific
Pakistan has introduced a major change to its passport issuance system as part of efforts to modernize the process. Under the new policy, citizens applying for new passports will now be issued electronic passports (e-passports).
Pakistan has introduced a major change to its passport issuance system as part of efforts to modernize the process. Under the new policy, citizens applying for new passports will now be issued electronic passports (e-passports). The move aims to strengthen the security of travel documents and improve the efficiency of passport services.
The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports had set October 23, 2026, as the date for implementing the policy to issue electronic passports in Pakistan, and the new system has now come into effect. Under the policy, machine-readable passports (MRPs) will no longer be issued at passport offices across the country or by Pakistani diplomatic missions abroad. Instead, citizens applying for new passports will receive only e-passports.
The change was initially scheduled to take effect on October 15, 2026, but the implementation date was later revised to October 23. Under the revised schedule, the issuance and renewal of machine-readable passports ended on October 22. Officials say that machine-readable passports issued before October 23 will remain valid until their expiry dates. Citizens whose passports are still valid will not need to replace them before expiry under the new policy. According to officials, the transition to e-passports is intended to modernize passport services and improve the security and efficiency of travel documents in line with international standards.
A machine-readable passport contains a special code or strip at the bottom of its identification page. This code digitally records the passport holder’s basic information, which can be read quickly by specialized scanners at airports. An e-passport, however, also contains an electronic chip that stores information related to the holder’s identity. This chip helps verify identity and strengthens document security.
At many modern airports around the world, e-passport holders can use automated smart gates instead of waiting in line to be checked by an immigration officer. They can scan their passports themselves and pass through the gates within seconds. E-passports are widely used and recognized internationally, including in the European Union, the United States and Gulf countries. They can also help facilitate immigration procedures and international travel.
