E-Passport in Pakistan 2026 – Features, Benefits and Requirements
E-Passport in Pakistan 2026 – Features, Benefits and Requirements
Pakistan’s e-Passport is a modern travel document designed to provide stronger document security and electronically verifiable identity information. Unlike a traditional machine-readable passport, an e-Passport contains a contactless electronic chip that stores the passport holder’s biometric and personal information.
The Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGI&P), Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan, introduced the e-Passport system in 2022. According to DGI&P, the e-Passport issuance facility has been available from all field offices across Pakistan since August 16, 2023.
For Pakistani citizens planning international travel, understanding the e-Passport system is important before applying. This guide explains what a Pakistani e-Passport is, its major features, benefits, eligibility, required documents, fees, validity options, application procedure and other important information for 2026.
What Is an E-Passport in Pakistan?
A Pakistani e-Passport is a secure passport containing an embedded electronic chip. The chip is used to store information that helps verify the identity of the passport holder.
According to DGI&P, the chip contains biometric information, personal information appearing on the passport data page, a unique identification number and a digital signature. The chip is contactless and uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing it to be read electronically. Pakistan’s e-Passports are designed according to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
The e-Passport is still a physical passport. It is not a completely digital passport stored only on a mobile phone. The holder receives a physical passport document containing the electronic chip.
The application process is generally similar to obtaining a traditional Machine Readable Passport (MRP), while the documents required are also broadly similar.
When Was the Pakistani E-Passport Introduced?
Pakistan introduced its e-Passport program in March 2022. The service was initially introduced on a limited basis and was later expanded.
DGI&P states that from August 16, 2023, e-Passport issuance became available from all field offices across Pakistan. This means applicants do not have to be residents of Islamabad to obtain an e-Passport.
The availability of the service across field offices has made e-Passports more accessible to Pakistani citizens in different parts of the country.
Main Features of Pakistan E-Passport
The Pakistani e-Passport includes several security and identification features.
1. Embedded Electronic Chip
The most important difference is the electronic chip embedded in the passport. It stores information that can be electronically read for identity verification.
2. Biometric Information
The chip contains biometric information associated with the passport holder. This provides an additional method of verifying that the person presenting the passport is its legitimate holder.
3. Personal Information
The electronic chip contains personal information from the passport's data page. This allows electronic systems to compare the information stored in the chip with the information presented in the physical document.
4. Digital Signature
The e-Passport contains a digital signature as part of its security structure. This helps support electronic authentication of the passport data.
5. NFC Technology
Pakistan’s e-Passport uses a contactless NFC chip. NFC allows compatible electronic passport readers to read the chip without physically connecting to the passport.
6. Laser-Engraved Data
DGI&P lists chip-based data storage with laser engraving among the salient features of the Pakistani e-Passport.
7. IR and UV Security Features
The e-Passport includes multiple security features involving infrared and ultraviolet technologies. These features are intended to make passport verification and document security more robust.
8. ICAO Compliance
Pakistan’s e-Passport is designed in compliance with ICAO standards. These international standards support interoperability and machine-readable travel document systems used by countries around the world.
9. Immigration Verification
DGI&P identifies e-Gate facilities and real-time matching of personalized data at airports among the features and benefits associated with the e-Passport system.
Benefits of E-Passport in Pakistan
The e-Passport offers several potential benefits for Pakistani travelers.
Better Passport Security
The electronic chip adds another layer of security to the passport. Because the document contains electronically readable information and security features, authorities can use electronic verification in addition to checking the physical passport.
Easier Electronic Verification
An e-Passport can be electronically read by compatible systems. This can make identity and passport verification more efficient at participating border-control facilities.
Support for E-Gates
DGI&P identifies e-Gate facilities as a benefit of e-Passports. However, travelers should remember that the availability and use of automated passport gates depends on the airport and destination country's immigration arrangements. An e-Passport does not automatically guarantee access to an e-Gate in every country.
Stronger Identity Matching
The electronic information contained in the chip can support matching between the passport holder and passport data at immigration points. DGI&P specifically lists real-time matching of personalized data at airports among the e-Passport's features.
International Compatibility
DGI&P states that Pakistan’s e-Passport follows ICAO standards. This is important because international travel document systems rely on standardized formats and electronic verification technologies.
Useful for Frequent International Travelers
People who regularly travel internationally may find an electronically enabled passport useful because it is designed for modern immigration systems. Nevertheless, visa requirements, entry rules and border procedures are determined by the destination country and remain separate from the passport itself.
Who Can Apply for a Pakistani E-Passport?
Pakistani citizens who meet the passport requirements can apply for an e-Passport through the passport system.
DGI&P states that ordinary passports are issued to Pakistani citizens subject to the required formalities. Passport services can also be obtained from passport offices regardless of the address recorded on the applicant's CNIC, NICOP or CRC under the revised jurisdiction provisions.
Applicants should have valid identity documentation and provide the documents applicable to their circumstances.
For adults, the basic identity document is generally a valid CNIC or NICOP. Additional documents may be required depending on whether the application is for a new passport, renewal, modification, lost passport or another category.
E-Passport Requirements for Adults
For applicants aged 18 or above, DGI&P lists the following documents for passport applications:
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Original valid CNIC or NICOP with a photocopy.
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Previous passport in original with a photocopy, if previously issued.
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NOC from the relevant department where the applicant is a government, semi-government or autonomous-body employee.
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Foreign passport with photocopy for dual nationals.
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Police report mentioning the previous passport number where a passport has been lost.
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Proof of prescribed passport fee payment where applicable.
The exact documents can vary according to the nature of the case. Applicants with special circumstances should confirm their requirements with DGI&P before visiting the passport office.
E-Passport Requirements for Minors
Passport requirements for applicants under 18 can differ according to age and family circumstances.
For minors aged 10 years and above, DGI&P requires either an original updated CRC containing fingerprints and photograph or a Juvenile Card.
For minors below 10 years, an original CRC/Form-B or FRC may be required. DGI&P also requires the valid identity documents of both parents and the presence of a parent or legally appointed guardian, subject to the applicable circumstances.
Where parents are separated or divorced, custody documents and consent requirements may apply. A court-appointed guardian may need to provide the relevant guardianship certificate.
If one parent has died, the relevant death certificate may also be required.
Because minor passport cases can involve different family circumstances, parents or guardians should verify the current requirements before submitting an application.
Name Requirements for E-Passport
DGI&P has specified certain data-entry requirements for e-Passport applications at Regional Passport Offices.
A first name and last name are required. DGI&P states that the first name can contain up to 50 characters, while the last name can contain up to 40 characters. The relative name, such as father, husband or guardian name, can contain up to 40 characters.
Applicants should carefully check their personal information before the passport application is finalized.
E-Passport Validity in Pakistan
The standard passport validity options include five years and ten years, subject to the applicable rules and applicant's age.
Children below 15 years are not entitled to a ten-year validity passport and are issued passports with five-year validity.
For adults, the applicable validity option can be selected according to the available passport categories and fee schedule.
Applicants should check the current official fee schedule before making payment because government fees and service arrangements can change.
E-Passport Page Options
The current DGI&P e-Passport fee schedule lists 36-page and 72-page ordinary e-Passport options.
Applicants who travel frequently may need more pages than occasional travelers. The appropriate page option depends on expected travel and visa/stamp requirements.
The number of pages is separate from passport validity. A passport with more pages does not automatically have a longer validity period.
E-Passport Fees in Pakistan 2026
According to the current DGI&P fee schedule, the ordinary e-Passport fees are as follows:
36-Page E-Passport
For five-year validity:
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Normal: Rs. 9,000
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Urgent: Rs. 15,000
For ten-year validity:
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Normal: Rs. 13,500
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Urgent: Rs. 22,500
72-Page E-Passport
For five-year validity:
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Normal: Rs. 16,500
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Urgent: Rs. 27,000
For ten-year validity:
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Normal: Rs. 24,750
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Urgent: Rs. 40,500
DGI&P also states that e-Passport fees can be paid through the Passport Fee Asaan App or e-Payment Web Portal. Fast Track service is not available for e-Passport delivery.
Applicants should verify the fee immediately before payment because official government fees can be revised.
Is Fast Track Available for E-Passport?
According to the DGI&P fee information, Fast Track service is not available for e-Passport delivery. Applicants should therefore not assume that the Fast Track option available for Machine Readable Passports also applies to e-Passports.
The availability of Normal and Urgent categories and their current fees should be confirmed on the official DGI&P website before payment.
How to Apply for an E-Passport in Pakistan
The e-Passport application process is generally similar to the traditional passport application process.
Applicants should first prepare their identity documents and determine the appropriate passport category. They can then pay the prescribed fee through the available payment system and visit the relevant passport office with the required documents.
At the passport office, the application involves photograph capture, token issuance, biometric verification, data entry, record verification, an interview or decision stage and passport delivery.
Passport Office Application Process
At the passport office, applicants should be prepared for the following process:
First, the applicant approaches the customer service counter.
The applicant then proceeds for photograph capture and token issuance.
Biometric fingerprints are captured.
The applicant's information is entered into the passport system.
The information is checked against relevant office records.
The Assistant Director or authorized officer reviews the application.
After the required processing, the passport is sent for production.
The applicant receives the passport according to the prescribed delivery procedure.
Applicants should carefully review their data at the data-entry stage. DGI&P specifically warns that errors should be pointed out before the information is finalized.
Can You Apply for an E-Passport Online?
It is important to distinguish between an e-Passport and the online passport application service.
An e-Passport is a physical passport containing an electronic chip. Online passport services are separate electronic application facilities.
DGI&P currently provides online passport services, including online renewal for eligible inland and overseas Pakistanis. The official passport application process page lists online renewal separately from passport-office applications for new, renewal and modification cases.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that every type of new e-Passport application can be completed entirely online.
The exact online eligibility and available categories should be checked on the official DGI&P online passport portal before starting an application.
E-Passport vs Machine Readable Passport
The main difference is the electronic chip.
A Machine Readable Passport is designed to be read by machines through its standardized passport information and machine-readable zone. An e-Passport additionally contains a contactless electronic chip that stores biometric and personal information and a digital signature.
The e-Passport also incorporates additional electronic and physical security features. DGI&P lists chip-based data storage, laser engraving, IR and UV security features, ICAO compliance, e-Gate capability and real-time personalized-data matching among its features.
Both are physical passports and both are subject to passport, immigration and destination-country requirements.
Does an E-Passport Guarantee Visa Approval?
No.
An e-Passport is a travel document. It does not itself grant a visa or guarantee entry into another country.
Visa approval depends on the immigration and visa rules of the destination country. Travelers must separately meet visa, entry, health, financial, sponsorship or other requirements imposed by the destination country where applicable.
An e-Passport may support electronic identity verification, but it does not replace a visa when a visa is required.
Does an E-Passport Guarantee E-Gate Access?
No.
Although DGI&P lists e-Gate facilities as a benefit of e-Passports, the actual availability of e-Gates depends on the airport, country and immigration authority. Some airports may offer automated border-control facilities while others may continue to require manual immigration processing.
Travelers should follow the instructions of the immigration authority at the airport.
Can an Existing Passport Be Renewed?
DGI&P states that there is no restriction on renewing a passport before its expiry under the applicable passport manual. A passport with full five-year or ten-year validity can be issued even if the existing passport has not completed its validity, although the applicant may be asked to provide a reason for obtaining a new passport early.
Online passport renewal is also available for eligible inland and overseas Pakistanis.
What Happens During Data Entry?
During the data-entry stage, the passport official enters the applicant's required information into the system.
DGI&P advises applicants to check the information carefully. The data-entry form is presented to the applicant for verification, and any correction should be identified at this stage.
This is an important part of the process because mistakes in names, dates or other personal information can cause problems later.
Passport Status Tracking
Applicants can provide a valid mobile number or email address during the application process for passport status notifications.
DGI&P states that applicants inside Pakistan can receive passport status information through SMS service 9988, while email-based status services are also available for relevant applicants.
Applicants should keep their token, receipt and other application information safely until the passport has been collected.
How Long Does Passport Processing Take?
Processing time depends on the applicable passport category and service.
DGI&P's current passport information lists:
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Fast Track MRP: 2 working days
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Urgent MRP: 5 working days
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Normal MRP: 21 working days
The published MRP Fast Track service is different from e-Passport delivery, because DGI&P specifically states that Fast Track service is not available for e-Passports. Applicants should therefore confirm the applicable e-Passport processing timeline with DGI&P before applying.
Courier or shipment time may also be separate from the stated processing period.
Can Pakistani Citizens Apply from Any Passport Office?
DGI&P states that, under the revised Passport Rule 6, 2021 provisions, Pakistani citizens may apply for passport services from any passport office regardless of the address recorded on their CNIC, NICOP or CRC.
This can make passport services more convenient for people who are temporarily living or working away from their permanent address.
Applicants should still check the availability of the required service at the selected office before visiting.
Important Things to Check Before Applying
Before submitting an e-Passport application, applicants should check:
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Their CNIC/NICOP is valid.
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Their name and personal details are correct.
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Their previous passport is available if applicable.
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Required documents are complete.
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Special documents are prepared if the applicant is a minor.
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NOC is available if required for a government or relevant employee.
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Foreign passport information is available for dual nationals.
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The correct passport validity is selected.
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The correct page category is selected.
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The correct fee is paid.
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Payment evidence is retained.
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Mobile number or email is provided for status notifications.
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Any discrepancy in the application is reported before final approval.
Important Note About Fees and Requirements
Passport fees, service categories, application procedures and office arrangements may change.
The information in this guide is based on the DGI&P information available for 2026. Applicants should check the official Directorate General of Immigration & Passports website immediately before paying a fee or visiting a passport office.
For unusual cases such as lost passports, damaged passports, dual nationality, minors with separated parents, guardianship, changes of particulars or questions about citizenship status, additional documentation may be required. DGI&P also states that additional documents may be requested where there is doubt about national status or antecedents.
Final Overview
Pakistan's e-Passport is a physical passport containing a contactless electronic chip that stores biometric and personal information and supports electronic verification. It also includes security features such as laser engraving, IR and UV features, a digital signature and ICAO-compliant technology.
The e-Passport issuance facility has been available from field offices across Pakistan since August 2023. The application requirements are broadly similar to those for a Machine Readable Passport, although applicants must meet the specific requirements applicable to their age and circumstances.
For 2026, DGI&P's published ordinary e-Passport fee schedule includes 36-page and 72-page options, with five-year and ten-year validity choices where permitted. Fast Track is not available for e-Passport delivery.
Anyone planning to apply should verify the latest fee, service category, documents and processing arrangements directly with DGI&P before submitting an application. This is especially important because government procedures and fees can be updated.
Guide Information
Eligibility
Pakistani citizens who meet the applicable passport requirements can apply for an e-Passport. Adults generally require a valid CNIC or NICOP. Minors require the relevant CRC, Juvenile Card or FRC documents according to age, along with the required parent or guardian documentation. Special cases such as dual nationality, lost passports, guardianship and separated parents may require additional documents. DGI&P states that Pakistani citizens can apply for passport services from any passport office regardless of the address recorded on their CNIC, NICOP or CRC.
Required Documents
For adults, generally:
* Original valid CNIC or NICOP with photocopy.
* Previous passport with photocopy, if issued.
* NOC where required for government, semi-government or autonomous-body employees.
* Foreign passport with photocopy for dual nationals.
* Police report mentioning previous passport number in case of a lost passport.
* Applicable proof of passport fee payment.
For minors:
* Updated CRC with fingerprints and photograph or Juvenile Card for applicants aged 10 or above.
* CRC/Form-B or FRC for children below 10.
* Valid CNICs or passports of both parents with photocopies.
* Parent or legally appointed guardian accompanying the minor.
* Custody documents where parents are separated/divorced, where applicable.
* Consent documentation where required.
* Guardianship certificate where applicable.
* Death certificate of a deceased parent where applicable.
* Foreign passport for dual-national minors, where applicable.
* Police report mentioning the previous passport number in case of a lost passport.
Fees
Current DGI&P ordinary e-Passport fees:36 pages:* 5 years: Normal Rs. 9,000; Urgent Rs. 15,000.* 10 years: Normal Rs. 13,500; Urgent Rs. 22,500.72 pages:* 5 years: Normal Rs. 16,500; Urgent Rs. 27,000.* 10 years: Normal Rs. 24,750; Urgent Rs. 40,500.DGI&P states that e-Passport fees can be paid through the Passport Fee Asaan App or e-Payment Web Portal. Fast Track service is not available for e-Passport delivery. Fees should be verified on the official DGI&P website before payment because government fees can change.
Processing Time
Processing arrangements depend on the selected passport service. DGI&P publishes 2 working days for Fast Track MRP, 5 working days for Urgent MRP and 21 working days for Normal MRP. However, DGI&P specifically states that Fast Track is not available for e-Passport delivery. Applicants should confirm the applicable e-Passport processing timeline before applying. Courier or shipment time may be additional.WHEN TO APPLY:Apply well before planned international travel. Applicants should allow sufficient time for document verification, passport production and delivery. People with upcoming visa appointments or international travel should not wait until the last few days. Always confirm the current processing timeline with DGI&P.
Application Method
E-Passport applications are generally processed th
Validity Period
Adult applicants may generally have five-year or ten-year passport validity options. Children below
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm that you are eligible to obtain a Pakistani passport.
- Decide whether you need an e-Passport.
- Check the latest e-Passport requirements on the DGI&P website.
- Check whether you need a new passport or renewal.
- Confirm your CNIC or NICOP is valid.
- Check your personal information on your identity document.
- Confirm your name spelling before starting the application.
- Check the first-name and last-name requirements for e-Passport data entry.
- Gather your previous passport if you have one.
- Prepare an NOC if you are a government, semi-government or autonomous-body employee and an NOC is required.
- Prepare your foreign passport if you are a dual national.
- Obtain the required police report if your previous passport was lost.
- If applying for a minor, obtain the appropriate CRC, Juvenile Card or FRC.
- Collect the required identity documents of both parents for a minor.
- Prepare custody documents if the parents are separated or divorced.
- Prepare consent documentation where required for a minor's application.
- Prepare guardianship documents if the application is being made by a legal guardian.
- Check the current e-Passport fee schedule.
- Select the appropriate passport page category.
- Select the appropriate validity period where permitted.
- Select Normal or Urgent service where available.
- Pay the applicable e-Passport fee through an approved payment method.
- Keep the payment receipt or electronic payment confirmation safely.
- Identify the appropriate passport office.
- Confirm the office's current service availability before visiting.
- Visit the passport office with the required original documents and copies.
- Present your documents at the customer service counter.
- Complete photograph capture and receive the application token.
- Check the information printed or displayed on the token.
- Report any discrepancy immediately before continuing.
- Complete biometric fingerprint capture.
- Proceed to the data-entry stage when your token is called.
- Review the information entered by the passport official.
- Correct any error before the information is finalized.
- Sign or confirm the data-entry form where required.
- Complete the relevant record verification stage.
- Appear before the Assistant Director or authorized officer when required.
- Provide additional documents if the officer requests them.
- Wait for the application to proceed to passport production.
- Keep your token and application information until delivery.
- Provide a valid mobile number or email for status notifications.
- Monitor passport status through the applicable DGI&P status service.
- Wait for passport production and dispatch.
- Visit the passport delivery counter on the designated date where collection is required.
- Bring the original token or required collection document.
- Collect the e-Passport personally or through an eligible blood relative according to DGI&P rules.
- Check the passport details after receiving it.
- Confirm that your name and personal information are correct.
- Store the passport safely and avoid damaging the chip or passport pages.
- Before international travel, check the destination country's visa and entry requirements separately.
Official Information
Contact: Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGI&P)Ministry of Interior, Government of PakistanNational Helpline: 051-111-344-777International Helpline: +92-51-111-344-777Email: [info@dgip.gov.pk](mailto:info@dgip.gov.pk)Status SMS: 9988
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a physical Pakistani passport containing a contactless electronic chip with biometric and personal information used for electronic verification.
E-Passports are issued through the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGI&P), Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan.
Pakistan introduced the e-Passport system in 2022.
DGI&P states that e-Passport issuance has been available from all field offices across Pakistan since August 16, 2023.
An e-Passport contains an electronic contactless chip that stores biometric and personal information, while an ordinary MRP does not contain this electronic chip.
Yes. DGI&P states that the Pakistani e-Passport contains a contactless NFC chip.
The chip contains biometric information, personal data from the passport data page, a unique identification number and a digital signature.
Yes. DGI&P states that Pakistani e-Passports comply with ICAO standards.
Benefits include electronic verification, additional security features, support for e-Gates where available and improved identity matching at compatible immigration systems.
No. E-Gate availability depends on the airport and destination country's immigration system.
No. Visa approval is controlled by the destination country's immigration and visa authorities.
The current published fee is Rs. 9,000 Normal and Rs. 15,000 Urgent for five years, and Rs. 13,500 Normal and Rs. 22,500 Urgent for ten years.
The current published fee is Rs. 16,500 Normal and Rs. 27,000 Urgent for five years, and Rs. 24,750 Normal and Rs. 40,500 Urgent for ten years.
DGI&P states that Fast Track service is not available for e-Passport delivery.
Children can apply for passports subject to the applicable minor passport requirements.
No. DGI&P states that children under 15 years are issued five-year validity passports only.
Generally, the applicant needs a valid CNIC or NICOP and the other documents applicable to the passport case.
A previous passport is required where one has previously been issued, subject to the applicable case.
DGI&P requires an NOC from the concerned department for government, semi-government or autonomous-body employees where applicable.
A dual national should provide the foreign passport and photocopy as required by DGI&P.
A police report mentioning the previous passport number is required for a lost-passport case.
DGI&P states that Pakistani citizens can apply for passport services from any passport office regardless of the address recorded on their CNIC, NICOP or CRC.
DGI&P states that there is no restriction on renewal before expiry, although the applicant may be asked for a reason for early renewal.
Online passport renewal is available for eligible inland and overseas Pakistanis.
No. It is a physical passport containing an electronic chip.
No. A visa is separate and is controlled by the destination country's rules.
The passport-office process includes biometric fingerprint capture. DGI&P describes capturing the right thumb, right index finger, left thumb and left index finger.
Applicants should identify and report errors during the data-entry verification stage before the information is finalized.
DGI&P provides passport status notifications through SMS service 9988 and applicable email services.
The published national helpline is 051-111-344-777 and the international number is +92-51-111-344-777.
DGI&P lists [info@dgip.gov.pk](mailto:info@dgip.gov.pk) for general information.
Yes. Applicants should check the latest official DGI&P fee schedule because government fees and service arrangements can change.
It can support electronic verification and compatible automated border systems, but travelers must still meet the visa and entry requirements of each destination.
Yes. Government procedures, fees and document requirements can be updated, so applicants should verify current information with DGI&P before applying.