SHIKRA system to modernize Pakistan passport services

Mohsin Naqvi, the federal interior minister, inaugurated an advanced monitoring system to transform passport operations at the directorate general of immigration and passports.

The new SHIKRA system enables real-time tracking of passport applications, printing and overall process from start to finish. As part of the upgrade, a 24/7 monitoring room and dedicated call center have been made operational for public assistance.

According to reports, the issuance process for emergency travel documents has also been fully digitized.

“Every stage, from the submission of an application to final delivery, whether inside Pakistan or at overseas missions, will now be closely monitored,” Naqvi said.

Furthermore, passport security features have been upgraded to meet ICAO international standards. German printing machines have also been installed to increase departmental capacity while eliminating human intervention in printing processes.

Moreover, during his visit, Mohsin Naqvi inspected the e-monitoring room, call centre, forensic lab and modern production unit. A digital integrated dashboard will now allow authorities to monitor daily operations, staff performance, crowd level at passport offices, backlogs and machinery status, enhancing transparency and efficiency.

The DG immigration and passports, the DG FIA, the Islamabad chief commissioner and Islamabad capital territory police chief also attended the launch.