Pakistan passport authorities may refuse passport renewal for citizens with a history of deportation, immigration violations, criminal activity or security flags under Passport Rules 2021, officials warned.
Authorities said the rules allow passport officials to deny issuance or renewal when an applicant’s record affects national security, public interest or legal compliance.
The policy applies to people deported over visa violations, illegal entry into foreign countries or involvement in criminal cases.
Officials said people suspected of human trafficking or smuggling may also face disqualification if law enforcement agencies flag their records.
Citizens on the Exit Control List, people facing court-ordered travel bans and individuals wanted by international law enforcement agencies also remain ineligible for passport services.
Authorities enforce these restrictions through the Passport Control List, which imposes travel bans on applicants for specific periods. Officials may extend those bans when required.
In high-risk cases, authorities can deactivate already issued passports remotely to stop travel.
Officials advised applicants with travel or legal complications to verify their status before applying. They said affected citizens can appeal a travel ban or Passport Control List placement through legal channels.
