The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) is implementing a series of digital reforms and new issuance protocols to modernize the passport application process and recognize high-contributing citizens.
New Honors for Top Taxpayers
Following directions from the prime minister, blue passports have been approved for 42 top taxpayers. These individuals have been designated as ambassadors at large, and DGIP chief Muhammad Ali Randhawa confirmed that most of these passports have already been issued.
a new proposal is under consideration to provide special-colored passports to businessmen who pay taxes above a specific threshold. This initiative is being developed with input from the Federal Board of Revenue and the Ministry of Commerce.
Digital Transformation and Application Access
To streamline the application process, the DGIP is preparing to launch a chatbot. This tool will provide applicants with guidelines on document requirements and procedures, while also allowing them to check the status of their submissions.
The department is also considering the “serious” possibility of allowing online passport applications. This could involve the launch of a dedicated application or the expansion of the National Database and Registration Authority’s (Nadra) Pak-ID app.
Under a potential app-based system, users may be able to upload photographs and old passports for registration and receive email notifications if further documentation is required. Such a move could allow for 24/7 submissions and help the department address human resource shortages.
Logistics and Cashless Payments
The DGIP is currently in discussions with a courier service company to introduce nationwide home delivery for passports. Once an agreement is reached, passports could be shipped directly from Islamabad to applicants who pay a nominal courier fee.
Authorities may extend this delivery service to overseas Pakistanis during a second phase of the rollout.
Eliminating the ‘Agent Mafia’
A significant change to payment protocols will take effect after June 30, when passport fees will no longer be accepted at National Bank branches. The system will transition to fully activated cashless transactions to eliminate the influence of the “agent mafia.”
Applicants will instead use QR codes on tokens, which can be scanned and paid via banking apps on their mobile phones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will passport fees be paid after June 30?
Fees will be paid via cashless transactions using QR codes on tokens that can be scanned through mobile banking apps.
Who is eligible for the recently approved blue passports?
Blue passports were approved for 42 top taxpayers who have been designated as ambassadors at large.
What features will the proposed online application system include?
The proposed system could allow applicants to upload photographs and old passports and receive notifications via email regarding additional document requirements.
Do you believe that transitioning to fully cashless government payments will effectively reduce the influence of third-party agents?
