Major overhaul for Pakistani passport: New beginning from October 15

DUBAI: Pakistan will stop issuing Machine-Readable Passports (MRPs) starting October 16. From then on, e-passports will be issued to both domestic and international travellers. Those currently holding MRPs may wish to know whether they need to replace them before October 15. Let us delve into the details.

Applicants for a new Pakistani passport from October 15 onwards will receive an e-passport. This change applies to passport offices within Pakistan as well as to consulates abroad.

However, the current passport will not become invalid from October 15; it will remain valid until the date of expiry marked on it. Furthermore, travellers must continue to comply with standard regulations regarding passport validity and immigration procedures of the country they are visiting.

Once the validity of the MRP expires, a new e-passport will be issued. An e-passport is an electronic passport containing a chip that stores passport and identification details. Immigration systems can read the electronic component, allowing for the digital verification of identification and passport information. Pakistan has already begun introducing e-passports. Officials stated that this move aims to modernise the country's passport system and facilitate international travel.