Pakistan will issue only e-passports from October 15, 2026, ending new machine-readable passport issuance at passport offices nationwide and Pakistani diplomatic missions abroad.
Existing machine-readable passports (MRPs) will remain valid until their printed expiry dates, according to a September 25 notice from the Consulate General of Pakistan in New York. Holders do not need to replace valid documents solely because of the change.
Applicants seeking a new passport from the cutoff date must obtain an e-passport. Those replacing an expired MRP must apply for the electronic version.
The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGI&P) made the decision as part of Pakistan’s transition to electronic passports. It has directed passport offices and diplomatic missions to implement the change and assist applicants.
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Pakistan has already been introducing e-passports. These contain an electronic chip storing passport and identity information. Compatible immigration systems can read the chip to verify the document and its holder’s details electronically.
