The federal government announced significant reforms on Thursday aimed at expediting the passport issuance process and enhancing service delivery. In a high-level meeting led by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, the government approved measures to reduce the waiting period and introduce a cashless payment system in passport offices nationwide.
Minister Naqvi revealed that the processing time for normal passports has been shortened from 21 days to 14 days as part of a broader initiative to modernize and streamline passport services across the country. He also highlighted the decision to implement a fully cashless system in all passport offices, setting a 15-day deadline for its complete rollout. This move is expected to eliminate cash transactions, thereby dismantling the influence of agent mafias and simplifying the process for citizens.
Meanwhile, the meeting reviewed progress on the proposed Business Passport category, with the interior minister instructing officials to finalize its issuance procedures promptly. Additionally, the government resolved to improve the home-delivery system for passports, ensuring that doorstep delivery becomes more efficient and accessible to the public.
In a significant development, Minister Naqvi stressed the importance of establishing a dedicated Passport Authority to reinforce the passport system and elevate the quality of public service. The session also included the Interior Secretary, the Director General of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports, and other key officials who contributed to the discussions.
