Mandatory Issuance Of E-Passports Confirmed By Top Official In Pakistan

The mandatory issuance of e-passports in Pakistan has been confirmed, starting from 2027, according to Mustafa Jamal Qazi, Director-General Passports Pakistan. All necessary arrangements are being finalized to implement this technological breakthrough. In 2023, the Passport Department issued 6.5 million passports to Pakistanis intending to travel abroad. During a visit to the Karachi Passport Office, Qazi stated that the transition from machine-readable passports to e-passports is underway, and a new system will be installed within the next six to seven months.

The e-passport, also known as a biometric or electronic passport, incorporates an embedded electronic chip containing essential personal information and biometric data such as facial recognition. This modern passport enhances security and convenience, making it more resistant to counterfeiting or tampering compared to traditional passports.

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Addressing delays in passport issuance, Qazi confirmed that the challenge has been resolved, with the government procuring an adequate quantity of lamination paper required for passport printing. The implementation of e-passports aims to streamline border crossings, as the electronic data stored in the chip can be quickly scanned and authenticated, expediting immigration processes and reducing queues at checkpoints. The enhanced security features of e-passports contribute to safeguarding against identity theft and fraudulent activities, providing an overall improvement in border security.

This technological shift aligns with global trends in passport technology, emphasizing the importance of secure, efficient, and modern identification documents for international travel.