Big News: Pakistan Announces Faster Passport Delivery Times Across the Country

The Pakistani government has updated passport delivery timelines, making the process faster and more predictable. Whether applying for a normal, urgent, or fast-track passport, applicants now benefit from clearer schedules and reduced waiting periods, allowing better travel planning.

For normal passports, delivery now takes about 21 working days, while urgent passports are issued in five working days. Fast-track passports, the quickest option, are delivered in just two working days. “Working days” refers to Monday through Friday, excluding public holidays. The new system applies nationwide, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Fees vary depending on passport type, validity, and page count. For a 36-page passport with five-year validity, normal delivery costs Rs. 4,500, urgent delivery Rs. 7,500, and fast-track Rs. 12,500. Ten-year validity passports and higher page counts come with higher fees.

E-passports, featuring embedded chips for enhanced security and international recognition, follow similar timelines. Urgent e-passports are delivered in five working days, while regular e-passports take up to 21 working days, depending on local availability.

Passport offices in Pakistan operate Monday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm for public dealing and Friday from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm. Some large centers in major cities provide 24/7 processing for added convenience. Applicants should verify office schedules before visiting.

Common causes of delays include missing documents, technical issues, high application volumes, and public holidays. Applicants can track their applications via SMS, the DGIP helpline (051-111-344-777), or the Pakistan Citizen Portal. Required documents typically include the original CNIC or B-form, previous passport if applicable, proof of payment, and recent passport-size photos.

Fast-track applications involve submitting documents at the DGIP office, providing delivery address, undergoing photo and fingerprint capture, and paying the applicable fee. The passport is then delivered rapidly, often within 24 hours in major cities.

The new system ensures a smoother passport application experience in Pakistan, offering options to suit different budgets and urgency levels while maintaining secure and reliable service. Applicants should double-check documents, plan according to local office timings, and utilize tracking tools for peace of mind.