passport department announces bigger stupe for applicants in pakistan

In a significant move to streamline administrative hurdles, the Passport Department of Pakistan has announced a groundbreaking series of reforms aimed at improving the experience for applicants in Pakistan. These changes come at a time when the demand for travel documents is surging, and the government is under pressure to modernize its service delivery.

The Pakistan passport system is undergoing a massive digital overhaul to ensure that every Pakistani citizen can access services without the historical "stupe" or bottlenecks that have plagued the offices for decades.

1. Radical Reforms for Applicants in Pakistan

The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGI&P) has formally inaugurated a state-of-the-art monitoring system to oversee every stage of the application process. For applicants in Pakistan, this means a shift from manual tracking to a high-tech digital integrated dashboard.

The Interior Minister recently visited the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports to oversee the launch of the SHIKRA (Secure Hybrid Intelligence for Knowledge-based Response Analytics) system. This system is designed to provide real-time monitoring of passport applications, ensuring that any passport processing delays are identified and resolved instantly.

Key Benefits of the New Monitoring System:

24/7 Monitoring: A dedicated monitoring room and call center are now operational.

Crowd Control: The system can automatically identify crowding at Regional Passport Offices (RPOs).

Backlog Management: Real-time tracking of machinery status and printing backlogs.

Human Intervention: Advanced German machines have been installed to eliminate human error and intervention in the automated passport printing process.

2. Updated Fee Structure and Categories

Understanding the passport fee and the different categories is essential for applicants in Pakistan. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports has maintained a transparent fee structure to help citizens plan their applications.

Note: For applicants in Pakistan, the Fast Track Passport Service is now available in 47 cities, offering a 2-working-day turnaround for those with urgent travel needs.

3. The Digital Journey for a Pakistani Citizen

The Pakistan passport application process has been simplified into seven distinct steps to ensure transparency for every Pakistani citizen. Whether you are applying at a Regional Passport Office or via the online passport renewal portal, the workflow is designed to be user-friendly.

Step-by-Step Process Flow:

Arrival and Token Issuance: The applicant arrives at the customer service counter.

Fee Verification: Capturing of the initial photograph and issuance of a token.

Biometrics: Capturing of digital finger prints and signatures.

Data Entry: The applicant provides their CNIC and mobile number to receive status updates via the 9988 SMS service.

Verification: Checking against the Exit Control List (ECL) and Black List (BL).

Interview: A final decision by the Assistant Director.

Passport Delivery: Collection of the final document from the delivery counter.

4. Addressing Passport Processing Delays

One of the biggest concerns for applicants in Pakistan has been the passport processing delays. To combat this, the Passport Department has introduced several technological upgrades. The introduction of automated passport printing via German-made machinery has significantly increased the departmental capacity.

The DGI&P has also expanded the Fast Track Passport Service to 26 additional cities. This means that more applicants in Pakistan can now bypass the "Normal" 21-day waiting period if they are willing to pay the premium for expedited service.

Strategies to Reduce Wait Times:

e-Payment Facility: Applicants are encouraged to use the Passport Fee Asaan mobile app to avoid long bank queues.

Online Renewal: For overseas Pakistanis and inland citizens looking to renew, the online passport renewal portal is the fastest route.

Real-time Tracking: Citizens can track their application status through the 9988 SMS service or the Email Rabta service.

5. Global Standing of the Pakistan Passport

In early 2026, the Pakistan passport saw a notable improvement in global rankings. According to the Henley Passport Index 2026, the passport now ranks 98th worldwide, providing increased visa-free access for every Pakistani citizen. This improvement is a direct result of improved bilateral relations and the modernization of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports.

For those planning to travel for religious purposes, the Hajj Policy 2026 mandates that applicants must have a valid Pakistani Passport up to November 26, 2026. This underscores the importance of the Passport Department's efforts to ensure that applicants in Pakistan receive their documents well ahead of travel deadlines.

6. Important Reminders for Applicants

Before visiting any Regional Passport Office, every Pakistani citizen should ensure they have the following original documents:

Valid CNIC/NICOP/Smart Card

Previous Passport (for renewal cases)

NOC (for government employees)

Child Registration Certificate (CRC/Form B) for minors

The Passport Department's new "stupe"—or strategic step—is a clear indication that the government is prioritizing the digital rights and convenience of its citizens. By integrating the SHIKRA monitoring system and expanding fast track options, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports is setting a new standard for public service in Pakistan.

Would you like me to find the nearest Regional Passport Office or Fast Track center for your specific city in Pakistan?This video provides a detailed look at the newly launched SHIKRA monitoring system and how it helps eliminate delays for passport applicants.