Ali Raza Khan 
Pakistan E-Passports have officially begun rolling out nationwide, with the government gradually phasing in electronic passports while reducing reliance on traditional Machine-Readable Passports (MRPs).
The news has left travelers, overseas Pakistani nationals and frequent air travelers confused as they fear their existing passports may now be invalid. But the government has stated it did not need to run as fast for a quick replacement.
Are Old Pakistani Passports Still Valid?
If there is an existing valid Machine-Readable Passport, it will be valid for international travel to its expiry date when it was issued.
There has been no immediate deadline announced and active MRPs would not be cancelled immediately. On the contrary, there is a phased transition strategy being followed in Pakistan. This will result in the deployment of e-passports to the majority of citizens as they will seek to renew or obtain a new passport in future.
There is no requirement at this time to have their passport replaced before its expiration date if the traveler intends to travel into or out of the country for vacation, business or employment overseas.
Why Is Pakistan Moving to E-Passports?
The change is part of a modernization effort to enhance security, minimize fraud, and make Pakistan’s travel papers compliant with international aviation rules.
Unlike conventional passports, e-passports have an embedded electronic microchip which holds biometric data, identity data and digital signatures securely. The enhanced security attributes make it much harder to forge or alter travel documents.
As part of the transition also Pakistan’s efforts to integrate the latest technologies of the border-control with main international airports are supported.
What Are the Benefits of an E-Passport?
Among the greatest benefits of e-passports, is the better processing of immigration. The chip meets with international standards laid down by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and passengers will possibly be able to use the automated e-gates at international airports around the world offering recognition.
Passengers do not have to wait in long immigration queues, but can use automated systems to let immigration officials know who they are by reading information from the passport chip and a chip reading device with biometric data.
The new passports are additionally much better secured against identity theft and document fraud, enabling safe and efficient worldwide travel.
Pakistan’s New Cashless Passport System Starts July 1
The government has implemented a significant reform in the procedure to apply for a passport, along with the e-passport.
The PASS system will be shifted to complete digitisation starting from July 1, 2026, across Pakistan. The applicants will be encouraged to conduct the payment electronically rather than visiting banks for the payment and standing in long queues.
Online platforms and Passport fee Asaan mobile application will be used to facilitate payment of fees and services pertaining to the passport for citizens.
By relocating, it is hoped that there will be improved efficiency and transparency in the passport system and processing times can be cut down.
Home Delivery of Passports Could Soon Become Reality?
The other big change being considered is to offer passport home-delivery. Initial structures are already in place to enable applicants to receive their passports via a “courier system”, officials said. The hopeful service is estimated to help domestic and foreign citizens of Pakistan to lessen the need for visits to Regional Passport Office.
If rolled out across the country, it has the potential to make it a lot easier for people to travel and alleviate queues at passport offices.
What Should Travelers Do Right Now?
If you don’t particularly want the advantages provided by the new technology of the e-passports, there is no need to pay for an early replacement. An e-passport will most likely be issued to you as part of your passport renewal when it expires.
While waiting, travellers are encouraged to keep up to date on future government announcements about implementation deadlines and renewal processes.
FAQs
Should I immediately replace the existing Pakistani passport or not?
No. It has been confirmed by the Government that existing Machine Readable Passports will continue to be valid up to their expiration dates. Currently NO deadline for replacement.
What is the difference between MRP and e-passport?
An e-passport carries a built-in embedded chip with biometric and ID data. The chip is not being used in the traditional MRPs.
Will Pakistani e-passports work with airport e-gates?
Yes. The passports have a chip embedded with information ensuring that they meet international standards and enable the use of the automated e-gates at participating airports when they are available.
