The government has approved blue passports for 42 top taxpayers who were named ambassadors at large on the directions of Prime Minister (PM) of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
Director General of Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that most of the blue passports have already been issued.
Pakistan blue passports
Officials have said that the government is also considering a new proposal to introduce special coloured passports for businessmen who pay taxes above a certain amount.
The proposal is being discussed with the Ministry of Commerce and the Federal Board of Revenue.
Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports is preparing to launch home delivery services for passports across the country.
Under the plan, applicants will be able to receive their passports at home after paying courier charges.
Officials have also said that the talks with a courier company are in progress. Overseas Pakistanis may get this facility in the second phase.
Authorities are also planning to launch a chatbot to help people with passport procedures, required documents, and application updates.
Officials said that the government is also reviewing a plan to allow fully online passport applications through a mobile app or through Nadra’s Pak-ID platform.
Under the proposed system, applicants will be able to upload their documents and photographs online.
They will also receive email notifications if more information is needed.
Muhammad Ali Randhawa said passport fees will no longer be deposited at National Bank branches after June 30.
Instead, applicants will pay fees digitally through QR codes and banking apps. Officials said the move is aimed at reducing agent involvement and modernising the passport system across the country.
Govt introduces fresh passport, deportation policy
Authorities have warned that a history of deportation, immigration violations or security related concerns can seriously affect a citizen’s chances of obtaining or renewing a passport under the Passport Rules 2021.
Under the existing regulations, passport authorities have the authority to reject the issuance or renewal of travel documents for individuals whose past conduct is considered harmful to national security, public interest or legal requirements.
