Pakistan to Issue Only E-Passports, Ends Cash Payments from July 1

Pakistan has announced major reforms to its passport issuance system as part of efforts to modernize public services and improve convenience for citizens. Under the new policy, the country will gradually transition to issuing only e-passports, while cash payments for passport fees will be discontinued nationwide from July 1, 2026.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Director General Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa at the Directorate General headquarters in Islamabad. Held under the directions of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the meeting reviewed the implementation roadmap for ongoing reforms and measures to further improve passport services.

Officials were informed that from July 1, passport fees will only be accepted through QR code payments at all passport offices across Pakistan. The move is aimed at promoting digital transactions, increasing transparency, and simplifying the fee payment process.

The meeting was also informed that the Directorate General Immigration and Passports is preparing to launch a dedicated passport mobile application. The app will allow Pakistani citizens, both in Pakistan and abroad, to apply for passports online from their homes.

In addition, applicants will be able to receive their passports through doorstep delivery services, with TCS and DHL expected to handle deliveries. Authorities believe the initiative will help reduce congestion at passport offices and improve overall service delivery.

As part of the modernization plan, the Directorate General Immigration and Passports has also decided to gradually replace Machine Readable Passports (MRPs) with e-passports in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and global travel documentation practices.