In today’s digital age, obtaining a passport in Pakistan has become more accessible through the application process. If you’re gearing up for international travel and want to navigate the passport application seamlessly, follow this step-by-step guide to apply.
Step 1: Types of Passports in Pakistan
Understanding the three types of passports issued in Pakistan is crucial before initiating the application process:
- Ordinary Passport: Commonly used for regular travel, identified by its green cover.
- Diplomatic Passport: Issued to diplomats with a distinctive red cover.
- Official Passport: Assigned to government officials for official tasks, recognized by its navy blue cover.
Step 2: Validity of Pakistani Passport
Pakistani passports are issued with either a five or ten-year validity, depending on the fee deposited. Renewal is possible before expiration, and passports for children under 15 years have a standard five-year validity.
Step 3: Documents Required for Application
Ensure you have the necessary documents based on your age group:
For Applicants (18 Years or Above)
- Bank Challan receipt of the application fee
- CNIC/NICOP with 2 photocopies
- Old Passport with a photocopy (if applicable)
- NOC for Government Servants
- Foreign Passport with a photocopy for Dual-Nationals
For Applicants (Minors under 18 Years)
- Bank Challan receipt
- CRC/B-form with 2 photocopies
- Photocopies of Parents’ CNICs
- Foreign Passport with a photocopy for Dual-Nationals
Step 4: Applying for Passport
While the online portal is primarily for passport renewal, new applications, modifications, or reprints require a visit to the nearest Pakistan Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate General.
Step 5: Application Through the Regional Passport Office (RPO)
If applying through the RPO, follow these steps:
- Visit the nearby Passport Office
- Head to the Customer Service Counter and receive a token
- Follow instructions at the Photograph Counter, Biometric Data Counter, and Data Entry Counter
- Verify official records
- Attend an interview with the Assistant Director
- Collect your Passport within the specified timeline
Step 6: E-Passport Fee
The fee structure for E-Passports varies based on validity and urgency:
E-Passport (36 Pages)
- 5 Years Validity: PKR 9000 (Normal), PKR 15000 (Urgent)
- 10 Years Validity: PKR 13500 (Normal), PKR 22500 (Urgent)
E-Passport (72 Pages)
- 5 Years Validity: PKR 16500 (Normal), PKR 27000 (Urgent)
- 10 Years Validity: PKR 25750 (Normal), PKR 40500 (Urgent)
E-Passport (100 Pages)
- 5 Years Validity: PKR 18000 (Normal), PKR 30000 (Urgent)
- 10 Years Validity: PKR 27000 (Normal), PKR 45000 (Urgent)
The e-Services portal streamlines the application process, offering convenience and speed. Using any modern browser connected to the internet, applicants worldwide can easily apply for a machine-readable passport without the need for special software.
