Government to launch doorstep passport delivery service nationwide

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to introduce a doorstep passport delivery service across the country to make the collection of passports easier, faster and more convenient for citizens.

The decision was reviewed during a meeting in Islamabad chaired by Director General Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa, where officials examined progress on the development of a dedicated digital application for the service.

During the meeting, authorities finalised new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for passport delivery, describing the move as a significant step towards providing more efficient and hassle-free services to applicants nationwide.

The initiative is part of broader reforms being introduced to modernise Pakistan’s passport issuance system and improve public service delivery.

Earlier, on April 30, the government reviewed ongoing passport sector reforms during a meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry. Several measures aimed at streamlining passport services and enhancing transparency were approved during the session.

Officials informed the meeting that the processing period for normal passports had already been reduced from 21 days to 14 days, providing faster access to travel documents for applicants.

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The government also reviewed plans to further strengthen the doorstep passport delivery system, with a particular focus on ensuring efficient and reliable home delivery services throughout the country.

As part of the reform package, authorities decided to implement a fully cashless payment system at all passport offices within 15 days. The measure is intended to eliminate cash transactions, increase transparency and curb the influence of middlemen, commonly referred to as the “agent mafia”.

The meeting also reviewed progress on the proposed Business Passport category, which is aimed at facilitating frequent business travellers. In addition, discussions were held on establishing a dedicated Passport Authority to strengthen institutional capacity and further improve immigration and passport-related services.

Officials said the reforms reflect the government’s commitment to digitisation, transparency and citizen-friendly public services, while reducing processing delays and improving the overall passport application experience.