Pakistanis Can Now Apply For a Passport From Anywhere

In an important development aimed at improving the passport application experience, the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports in Pakistan has recently introduced a significant change in jurisdiction rules. This new policy, effective immediately, allows Pakistani citizens to apply for passports at any passport office in the country, regardless of the address listed on their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC), National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), or Child Registration Certificate (CRC).

Background of the Jurisdiction Change

The traditional passport application process required applicants to visit a passport office within their jurisdiction based on the address registered on their CNIC. This often created challenges for people living in remote areas or those temporarily residing away from their permanent address. The shift to a more flexible system is facilitated by advancements in Pakistan’s National Database, which is now digitally accessible and verifiable nationwide. With the integration of digital verification, processing applications has become more streamlined and location-independent.

This jurisdictional relaxation is part of an amendment to Rule 6 of the Passport Rules 2021, officially allowing citizens to access passport services more conveniently. The formal notification of this amendment is expected soon, making the rule change a permanent aspect of the passport application process.

Key Highlights of the New Passport Application Policy

1. Nationwide Passport Application Access

Pakistani citizens are no longer limited to their designated passport office based on their registered address. They now have the flexibility to apply at any passport office across the country, significantly simplifying the application process, especially for those residing in areas with limited or no passport office facilities.

2. Digital Verification System

Thanks to digital advancements in the National Database, the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports can now verify applications remotely. This digital verification not only speeds up the process but also enhances accuracy, allowing applicants to complete procedures more efficiently and reducing the likelihood of errors or delays due to jurisdiction-based verifications.

3. Amendments to Passport Rules 2021

The modification of Rule 6 in the Passport Rules 2021 formally incorporates this new policy, making it legally valid for citizens to apply for passports at any location. This amendment underscores the commitment of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports to simplify processes and support citizens across Pakistan, improving access to government services nationwide.

Benefits of the Jurisdiction-Free Passport Application Process

1. Reduced Wait Times and Processing Delays

Previously, applicants faced extended wait times, especially in high-demand areas or regions with limited passport offices. By allowing applications at any passport office, this policy reduces crowding, balances demand, and speeds up processing times for applicants across the country.

2. Increased Accessibility for Remote and Rural Populations

Many citizens living in remote or rural areas previously had to travel significant distances to reach their designated passport office. This new policy minimizes travel requirements, allowing applicants to choose the most convenient passport office and saving time and travel costs.

3. Enhanced Efficiency and Accuracy through Digital Verification

The new digital verification system enhances efficiency, allowing the National Database to process applications remotely without jurisdictional restrictions. This digital approach improves accuracy and ensures that applicants experience fewer delays due to record verification issues.

Impact on Overseas Pakistanis

This policy change is particularly beneficial for overseas Pakistanis who return to Pakistan temporarily for passport renewals. They can now visit any passport office, making the process far more convenient and allowing them to manage renewals efficiently during their short stays in the country. This flexibility supports overseas citizens, many of whom rely on up-to-date documentation for international travel and work.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Passport Under the New Policy

1. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have your CNIC, NICOP, or CRC, along with any other necessary documents, before visiting the passport office.
2. Visit Any Passport Office: Head to the nearest passport office, regardless of the address on your CNIC.
3. Complete Digital Verification: Your records will be verified digitally through the National Database, making the process quicker and more efficient.
4. Submit the Application: Fill out the application form and provide any additional required information.
5. Wait for Processing and Delivery: Once verified, your application will be processed, and your passport will be issued according to the standard processing timeline.

FAQs About New Passport Application Policy

Q1: Can I apply for a passport at any office even if my CNIC address is from a different province?
A1: Yes, with the new jurisdiction-free policy, you can apply for a passport at any passport office across Pakistan, regardless of your CNIC-registered address.

Q2: Will this policy also apply to overseas Pakistanis with NICOP?
A2: Yes, both citizens with CNIC and overseas Pakistanis with NICOP can utilize any passport office for applications, providing greater convenience during temporary visits to Pakistan.

Q3: How does the digital verification process work?
A3: Digital verification connects with the National Database to verify your identity and documents, allowing your information to be validated online without jurisdiction-based restrictions.

Q4: Is there any additional fee for applying outside my jurisdiction?
A4: No, there are no additional fees for applying outside your jurisdiction. The fees for passport applications remain consistent across all offices.

Q5: How long will the passport application process take under this new system?
A5: Processing times remain standard. However, the reduction in jurisdictional limitations and digital verification may expedite the initial stages of the process, reducing wait times.

Q6: What if I don’t receive confirmation of my passport application status?
A6: You can check the status of your application by contacting the passport office where you submitted your application or through the online tracking system.

Conclusion

The Directorate General of Immigration & Passports has taken a progressive step by lifting jurisdictional restrictions on passport applications, allowing citizens from all over Pakistan, as well as overseas Pakistanis, to access passport services at any office. With digital verification in place, the application process is more efficient and accessible, supporting the needs of all Pakistani citizens regardless of location. This policy update not only simplifies the process but also enhances the overall efficiency of passport services, ultimately making travel and identification management easier for all.