The government has announced major relief for overseas Pakistanis applying for their first Pakistani passport, enabling those planning to perform Hajj 2027 to obtain their passports in time.
Overseas Pakistanis holding dual nationality who wished to perform Hajj 2027 on a Pakistani passport had been facing difficulties obtaining their first passport due to mandatory security clearance by Pakistani security agencies. Delays in the clearance process had raised concerns that applicants might not receive their passports before the November 20, 2027 deadline for Hajj arrangements.
To address the issue, Director General Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa, in consultation with Director General Intelligence Bureau Pakistan Fouad Asadullah Khan, has ordered the security clearance process for dual-nationality overseas Pakistani Hajj pilgrims applying for their first Pakistani passport to be expedited.
A circular has subsequently been issued to Pakistani embassies and missions around the world, directing them to facilitate the process.
The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports has also introduced a special form for Hajj applicants. Applicants will be required to complete the form with their personal details and submit it along with their passport application at the relevant Pakistani embassy or consulate. The measure is aimed at helping eligible applicants obtain their passports as quickly as possible.
The development follows a detailed meeting held around two weeks ago in Islamabad between Overseas Pakistanis Welfare Council Chairman Naeem Naqshbandi and DG Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The meeting discussed issues faced by overseas Pakistanis, improving coordination between the state and the overseas Pakistani community, and other related matters.
According to the information provided, dual-nationality Pakistanis have been facing difficulties because of delays in the security clearance process. There are reportedly thousands of pending applications at Pakistani diplomatic missions in different countries.
The special facilitation will be available only to individuals intending to perform Hajj. Previously, applicants seeking their first Pakistani passport could have to wait for months for completion of the mandatory security clearance process.