ISLAMABAD: In a special meeting presided over by Mohsin Naqvi, it was approved to transfer the issuance of passports to e-passport in a phased manner, start home delivery service and implement cashless system from July 1. In a special meeting chaired by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Passport and Immigration Headquarters, significant reforms in the passport system have been decided. The matter has quickly moved to the forefront of national discussion.

Background and Context

This situation has been building for some time, shaped by a series of interconnected events.

Throughout the meeting, a principled decision has been taken to completely transfer the issuance of passports to e-passport.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that complete migration to the e-passport system will make it possible to eliminate fraud and forgery in the field of passports and security standards will be further improved.

Against this backdrop, it was also decided in the meeting that the citizens availing the premium services will have to pay the fee according to the actual expenses incurred on issuance of passport.

Political Implications

Observers say the significance of what has occurred cannot be understated.

The Federal Interior Minister was informed in the briefing that the initial work for the home delivery of passports abroad and within the country has been completed.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the facility of providing passport to the citizens at their doorstep will be introduced soon.

Of particular significance is the fact that in the meeting, it was also decided to implement a cashless framework in passport offices across the country from July 1, under which fees can be paid through digital means.

What This Means for Americans

Beyond the immediate headlines, this development could reshape how the issue is handled.

Additionally, it was decided to migrate online passport applications to the Pak ID platform to provide more convenient and integrated online services to citizens.

According to those with knowledge of the situation, the Federal Interior Minister also issued instructions to finalize the business passport policy as soon as possible in consultation with the Federal Board of Revenue ( FBR).

Against this backdrop, throughout the meeting, DG Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa gave a detailed briefing to the Federal Interior Minister regarding the proposed reforms in the passport system and ongoing measures.

What Comes Next

The events outlined in this report highlight the complexity and significance of the broader issue at hand. Stakeholders, policymakers, and the public are expected to closely monitor what comes next.