Obtaining a passport is an essential step for individuals who wish to travel internationally. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the documents required for a passport in Pakistan, outlining the necessary paperwork, procedures, and important considerations.
Whether you are a first-time applicant or seeking a passport renewal, Graana.com will assist you in understanding the documents required for a Passport in Pakistan to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.
Types of Pakistani Passports
The issuance of passports in Pakistan is regulated by the Passport Act of 1974, which categorises passports into three types:
Ordinary Passport
This is the most common type of passport issued by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports in Pakistan. It has a green cover and is used by Pakistani citizens for regular travel purposes, such as business trips and vacations.
Diplomatic Passport
A Diplomatic Passport is issued to diplomats representing Pakistan in other countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for issuing this type of passport. Diplomatic passports have a red cover.
Official Passport
An Official Passport is issued to Pakistani nationals who hold important government positions and need to travel abroad for official duties. This includes Senators, Members of the National Assembly (MNAs), Provincial Ministers, and Judges of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and High Courts. Official passports have a navy blue cover.
Validity of Pakistani Passports
The validity of a Pakistani passport depends on the duration chosen at the time of application and the fee paid. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports issues passports with two validity options:
Five Years
It’s important to note that a passport with a five-year validity cannot be converted into a passport with a ten-year validity. However, it can be renewed before it expires.
Ten Years
This option is available by paying the corresponding fee at the time of application. Additionally, for children under the age of 15, only passports with a validity of five years are issued.
Documents Required for Passport in Pakistan
New Passport requirements in Pakistan: Variations by age.
For Adults (18+ Years):
- Original passport (mandatory) + photocopy
- Original valid CNIC/NICOP/Smart Card (mandatory) + photocopy
Note: In case of dual nationality, an original foreign passport (along with photocopies) is also mandatory.
For Children (Under 18 Years)
- Father’s Original valid Passport (mandatory) + photocopy
- Father’s original valid CNIC/NICOP (mandatory) + photocopy
- Mother’s original valid passport (mandatory) + photocopy
- Mother’s original valid CNIC/NICOP (mandatory) + photocopy
- Child’s original passport (mandatory) + photocopy
- Child original valid B-form/NICOP/Smart NICOP + photocopy
- The father and mother are required to be present along with the child at the time of application.
- In case of parents’ separation: custody papers from the court (duly attested)
Note: In case of dual nationality, an original foreign passport (along with photocopies) is required.
Documents Required for Passport in Pakistan For Newborns
- The child’s original birth certificate attested (mandatory) + photocopy
- Child’s original NICOP (mandatory) + photocopy
- Father’s original valid passport (mandatory) + photocopy
- Father’s original valid CNIC/NICOP (mandatory) + photocopy
- Mother’s original valid passport (mandatory) + photocopy
- Mother’s original valid CNIC/NICOP (mandatory) + photocopy
- Father and mother’s personal presence along with the child (mandatory)
- If the father/mother has dual nationality, NOC is needed from the consulate
- Sworn affidavit/personal NOC is required if the father or mother is a foreign national attested from the concerned consulate/embassy
Note: In case of dual nationality, an original foreign passport (along with photocopies) is mandatory.
Pakistan Passport Renewal Fee
The passport renewal fees vary depending on the selected category and type. Given below is the fee breakdown for different types of passport renewals in Pakistan (exclusive of taxes and delivery charges):
Fee for 5 years validity | |||
Category | Fee | Service Charges | Total |
Normal (36-Pages) | Rs. 3,000/- | Rs. 2500 (+applicable taxes) | Rs. 5,500/- |
Urgent (36-Pages) | Rs. 5,000/- | Rs. 7,500/- | |
Normal (72-Pages) | Rs. 5,500/- | Rs. 8,000/- | |
Urgent (72-Pages) | Rs. 9,000/- | Rs. 11,500/- | |
Normal (100-Pages) | Rs. 6,000/- | Rs. 8,500/- | |
Urgent (100-Pages) | Rs. 12,000/- | Rs. 14,500/- | |
Fee for 10 years validity | |||
Category | Fee | Service Charges | Total |
Normal (36-Pages) | Rs. 4,500/- | Rs. 2500 (+applicable taxes) | Rs. 7,000/- |
Urgent (36-Pages) | Rs. 7,500/- | Rs. 10,000/- | |
Normal (72-Pages) | Rs. 8,250/- | Rs. 10,750/- | |
Urgent (72-Pages) | Rs. 13,500/- | Rs. 16,000/- | |
Normal (100-Pages) | Rs. 9,000/- | Rs. 11,500/- | |
Urgent (100-Pages) | Rs. 18,000/- | Rs. 20,500/- |
E-Passport System Introduced In Pakistan
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan launched the e-passport system in 2022, ushering in a new era of modernisation and digitalisation to public services in Pakistan. It incorporates the latest biometric chip technology, designed to encrypt all essential data and provide advanced security features, ensuring the highest level of protection.
E-passport holders now enjoy the privilege of accessing e-gate facilities at numerous domestic and international airports worldwide. With the implementation of this digital passport service, Pakistan joined the league of countries that have embraced this system, aimed at enhancing travel security and convenience.
The process at Regional Passport Office
The following are the step-by-step instructions that you will need to follow when visiting your nearest regional or executive passport offices in Pakistan.
Customer Service Counter
Upon arrival, head to the customer service counter where you will receive a briefing about the passport application process in Pakistan. If you have all the required documents, you will be directed to the token/photograph counter.
Token/Photograph Counter
Present your original Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) here, along with their photocopies and the bank challan form. If you are under 18 years of age, you will need to provide your Child Registration Certificate (CRC). Your photograph will be taken, and a token will be issued to you.
Biometric Data Counter
Proceed to the Biometric Data counter when your token number is called. A Data Entry Operator (DEO) will record the fingerprints of your right thumb, right index finger, left thumb, and left index finger.
Data Entry Counter
Next, visit the Data Entry counter, where the Data Entry Operator will enter all your necessary information into the system. You will have visibility of the screen to ensure the accuracy of the entered information.
Once the data entry is finished, you will be presented with a printed form for verification. Please review the information carefully, and if you identify any errors, please notify the Data Entry Operator for correction.
Note: If any modifications are required, they should be addressed at this stage. Once the information is entered, the token will need to be cancelled for data modification, requiring you to go through the entire process again. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly review the form before signing it.
Verification of Official Records
The information provided will be verified against the official records of the Exit Control List (ECL) and Black List (BL). The clearance of this verification is necessary for the issuance of a Pakistani passport.
Interview by Assistant Director
Lastly, you will have an interview with the Assistant Director of the Regional Passport Office. Bring all your original documents for this stage. The Assistant Director will assess your application and make a decision on whether it complies with the necessary requirements for passport processing.
Collection of Passport
After completing the above steps, you will be provided with a time frame for passport processing. For a normal passport application, the processing time is typically 10 working days, while an urgent application takes around 4 working days.
You can collect your passport from the passport collection counter at the regional passport office, or choose to have it delivered to your home address by paying an additional fee.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide has outlined the key documents needed for a passport application, including the National Identity Card (NIC), birth certificate, domicile certificate, proof of residence, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce certificate (if applicable), No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer (for government employees), bank statement, and passport-size photographs.
By ensuring that you have the necessary documents prepared, you can navigate the passport application process smoothly. Remember to consult the passport authority or relevant sources for the most up-to-date requirements and guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply for a passport without a National Identity Card (NIC)?
A: No, NIC is a mandatory document for a passport application in Pakistan. It serves as proof of identity, age, and nationality.
Q: Is a birth certificate necessary for a passport application?
A: Yes, a birth certificate is a crucial document to verify the applicant’s date of birth.
Q: What if I don’t have a permanent address in Pakistan?
A: To apply for a passport in Pakistan, a permanent address is necessary. If you don’t have one, you should consult the concerned authorities for alternative options or documentation requirements.
Q: Do I need a marriage certificate for a passport application?
A: Yes, if you are married, you need to provide a marriage certificate as proof of marriage. The relevant authority should issue it, and it should be included in the passport application.
Q: Can I apply for a passport if I am divorced?
A: Yes, divorced individuals can apply for a passport. However, they need to submit a divorce certificate issued by the competent authority as proof of divorce.
Q: Is a bank statement required for a passport application?
A: Yes, the bank requires a bank statement to demonstrate the applicant’s financial stability. The applicant should obtain it from the bank where they hold an account.
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