Pakistan to Introduce New Passport Design. The Government of Pakistan has officially decided to redesign the Pakistani passport, marking the most significant update in decades. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) has obtained final approval from the Ministry of Interior to begin the modernization process, ensuring the new passports meet international standards of security, technology, and design.
This move reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on digital identity protection, global travel compliance, and enhancing the country’s international image through advanced passport systems.
Official Confirmation
According to the official news update broadcast on Pakistani television networks, the DG Immigration and Passports has received the green light from the Ministry of Interior to implement a completely new passport design.
This means Pakistan’s next generation of passports will include new colors, layouts, and digital security elements, replacing the current green-covered passport that has been in circulation for many years
Why the Passport Redesign Was Needed
The Pakistani passport, while functional, has long required modernization to meet new ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and IATA travel document standards. Here are the main reasons behind this decision:
- Upgrading Security Features:
To prevent forgery, counterfeiting, and misuse, the new design will integrate biometric and digital chip enhancements. - Global Recognition:
The new look aims to improve international perception and align the passport’s appearance with those of modern nations. - Digital Transformation Goals:
As part of Pakistan’s E-Governance initiative, the passport redesign supports a broader shift to digital identity management. - Ease of Verification at Airports:
The upgraded chip and design will ensure faster verification through global e-gate systems. - Long-Term Validity & Durability:
New materials and print technologies will make the passport more durable and longer-lasting.
Expected Features of the New Pakistani Passport (2025 Edition)
While the full design has not been officially unveiled, sources from DGIP and the Ministry of Interior suggest the following upcoming enhancements:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Cover Design | Possible color variations (modern green or navy tone) with refined national emblem. |
| Digital Chip (E-Passport) | Embedded RFID chip storing biometric data for faster scanning. |
| Enhanced Security Printing | Invisible UV patterns, microtext, holographic elements to prevent forgery. |
| Improved Lamination | More durable anti-scratch material to extend document life. |
| Modern Page Layout | Redesigned visa pages with artistic representation of Pakistani landmarks. |
| Integrated QR Code | For instant authentication and verification. |
| Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) | Updated layout following ICAO Doc 9303 standards. |
| Gender and Profession Markers | Clearer labeling to avoid confusion during immigration. |
E-Passport Integration
This redesign aligns closely with Pakistan’s E-Passport initiative, which was rolled out in phases starting in 2023 for diplomatic and official passport holders. The new version will likely make E-Passports available to all citizens nationwide, offering:
- Embedded biometric chips containing fingerprint and facial data.
- Automated verification at immigration counters.
- Faster visa processing and entry clearance at international airports.
- Reduced identity theft risks.
Once implemented, Pakistan’s new passport will fully comply with ICAO biometric document standards, similar to those used by the EU, UK, and GCC countries.
Approval and Implementation Process
According to sources, the following stages have been outlined:
- Design Approval:
The Ministry of Interior has officially approved the DGIP proposal for a full redesign. - Vendor Selection: International printing and security firms will bid to supply the security paper, RFID chips, and design prototypes.
- Testing Phase: Sample passports will undergo ICAO certification and machine readability tests.
- Nationwide Rollout: Once finalized, printing will begin in Islamabad, followed by regional passport offices across Pakistan.
- Public Launch Date: The new passport design is expected to be introduced in early 2026 (tentatively January–March).
What Will Happen to Existing Passports?
Current passport holders do not need to worry. According to DGIP guidelines:
- Existing passports will remain valid until their expiry date.
- The new design will be issued for all renewals and fresh applications once launched.
- There will be no requirement to replace valid passports immediately.
- Citizens can continue to travel internationally with their old passports until they naturally expire.
Impact on Overseas Pakistanis
The new passport design will be particularly beneficial for the Pakistani diaspora living in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Europe, and North America.
Benefits Include:
- Smoother immigration clearance at global airports.
- Higher acceptance in visa-on-arrival countries.
- Better data protection through encrypted digital chips.
- Enhanced trust in Pakistani travel documents.
Current vs. New Passport (Expected Upgrades)
| Feature | Current Passport (2019-2024) | New Passport (2025-2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Green cover | Possible updated tone with embossed logo |
| Type | Machine-Readable (MRP) | Biometric (E-Passport) |
| Security Features | Basic hologram & watermark | Advanced UV, RFID, and micro-text |
| Printing Quality | Standard paper | Polycarbonate or tamper-proof material |
| Data Storage | Printed only | Embedded digital chip |
| Processing Time | 10–20 days | Expected to reduce via automation |
Statements from Officials
According to media reports, a senior DGIP spokesperson said:
“We have secured approval from the Ministry of Interior to modernize Pakistan’s passport design. The new layout will include state-of-the-art security features and a completely refreshed visual identity to represent Pakistan globally.”
Officials from the Ministry of Interior added that the design change will help Pakistan align its travel documents with the latest international benchmarks.
International Response
Security printing experts and travel analysts have welcomed the move, calling it a “progressive step” that will enhance Pakistan’s digital governance and traveler security reputation.
Neighboring countries like India, Bangladesh, and UAE have already modernized their passport systems with biometric integration — and Pakistan’s decision follows that global trend.
Timeline of Passport Reforms in Pakistan
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2004 | Introduction of Machine Readable Passports (MRP) |
| 2017 | Expansion of MRP services to all embassies abroad |
| 2023 | Launch of E-Passports for diplomatic and official categories |
| 2025 | Approval of complete redesign by Ministry of Interior |
| 2026 (Expected) | Launch of redesigned, biometric-ready passports for all citizens |
Expected Public Reaction
The announcement has already created a buzz on social media, with many citizens praising the decision to upgrade Pakistan’s passport design. Hashtags like #NewPakPassport, #DGIPUpdate, and #DigitalPakistan have started trending on Twitter (X) and Facebook.
People are particularly excited about the E-Passport expansion and global image improvement, seeing it as a sign of progress.
How Citizens Should Prepare
If you’re planning to renew your passport in 2026, here’s what to expect:
- Keep your old passport valid until expiry — no need for urgent replacement.
- When the new design launches, apply through the DGIP portal or nearest passport office.
- Ensure your CNIC details and biometric data are updated in NADRA’s records.
- Check the official DGIP website (www.dgip.gov.pk) for announcements.
Conclusion
The Government of Pakistan’s decision to redesign and modernize the national passport marks a new era in the country’s travel documentation. With DG Immigration & Passports receiving approval from the Ministry of Interior, citizens can expect a secure, advanced, and globally recognized passport soon.
This upgrade not only enhances travel convenience and safety but also strengthens Pakistan’s digital governance and international identity.
As the rollout begins, Pakistanis at home and abroad are eagerly waiting to see the new face of their passport — a symbol of national pride and modern progress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the new Pakistani passport be available?
It is expected to launch nationwide in early 2026, once production and testing are complete.
2. Will old passports remain valid?
Yes, current passports will remain valid until their expiry date.
3. What new features will the redesigned passport include?
The new passport will likely include RFID chips, biometric data, holographic seals, and updated page designs.
4. Do I need to apply again for a new passport immediately?
No. You can continue using your existing passport until it expires.
5. Will E-Passports become mandatory?
Eventually, yes. The government plans to replace all machine-readable passports with E-Passports in a phased manner.
