Govt approves reforms to ease passport issuance

The federal government has shortened passport processing times and approved the introduction of a fully cashless system in passport offices as part of a broader reform drive.

The decisions were taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, aimed at improving service delivery and public convenience.

Speaking after the meeting, Naqvi announced that the issuance period for normal passports has been reduced from 21 days to 14 days.

He said the step reflects ongoing efforts to modernise and streamline passport services nationwide.

The minister also confirmed that all passport offices will transition to a cashless payment system, eliminating the use of cash entirely. A 15-day deadline has been set to complete the shift.

According to Naqvi, moving to digital payments will help curb the influence of agents and make the process more transparent and accessible for citizens.

The meeting further reviewed progress on the proposed Business Passport category, with officials directed to finalise its operational framework at the earliest.

In addition, the government resolved to enhance the passport home-delivery system, aiming to ensure more efficient and reliable doorstep services.