Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that Visa-free entry arrangements with 25 countries will be finalised within the net six months. The update was shared during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee
He discussed visa-free travel agreements, Pakistan’s passport ranking and changes to the issuance of blue passports.
Naqvi said the government was working to improve international travel opportunities for Pakistani passport holders.
He told the committee that issues related to visa-free entry and travel facilities with 25 countries could be resolved within six months.
He also expressed hope that Pakistan’s green passport would improve its international ranking during this period.
The minister said negotiations involving blue passports were progressing with several countries.
Agreements with Kenya, Switzerland and Italy are reportedly in their final stages.
He further stated that visa-free entry arrangements with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates had been completed. A similar agreement with Qatar is expected soon.
Government cancels 22,000 blue passports
The interior minister also discussed concerns about the large number of blue passports issued in Pakistan.
He said foreign countries often ask about their total number before agreeing to visa-free travel arrangements.
According to Naqvi, some countries may withdraw such agreements if the number exceeds 25,000 to 30,000.
Pakistan currently has around 70,000 blue passports, making negotiations difficult.
The government has already cancelled 22,000 blue passports and suspended further issuance.
However, serving members of the National Assembly and Senate will receive blue passports according to their constitutional terms.
Naqvi said Parliament would make the final decision regarding blue passport rules.
He also announced plans to gradually introduce electronic passports across Pakistan to prevent fraud and improve document security.
The government hopes these measures will improve passport security, international travel arrangements and environmental planning.
