Issuance of machine-readable passports stopped in Pakistan

Islamabad: The issuance of machine-readable passports (MRPs) has been stopped in Pakistan, and only e-passports are being issued for new passports from October 23, 2026.

According to the announcement of the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, the new policy will be applicable to passport offices across the country and Pakistani diplomatic missions abroad. Under this initiative, new applicants will be provided with electronic passports instead of traditional machine-readable passports.

The authorities had earlier set October 15 as the date for the implementation of the new policy, but later the schedule was changed to October 23. According to the revised schedule, the facility for issuing and renewing machine-readable passports was available till October 22.

What will happen to already issued passports?

According to the authorities, already issued machine-readable passports will remain valid until their registered expiry date. Holders of such passports do not need to get a new passport immediately just because of the implementation of the new policy.

However, after the expiry of the existing passport, an e-passport will have to be obtained for renewal.

Pakistan started issuing e-passports in March 2022, initially on a limited scale. In August 2023, the facility was made available to all Pakistani citizens, after which citizens could choose between a machine-readable passport or an e-passport.

The new system includes an electronic chip inside the passport, which stores identity and biometric information. The technology aims to improve the authentication of travel documents and reduce the chances of forgery.

After the new policy, the e-passports system will be used for all new issuances and renewals of passports within Pakistan and abroad. Applicants are advised to confirm the fees and procedures with the relevant passport office or Pakistani diplomatic mission before applying.