Web Desk: Interior Ministry has reduced the processing time for normal passports from 21 days to 14 days as part of broader administrative reforms aimed at improving public services, officials said on Thursday.
The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, which focused on easing procedures for citizens and modernising the passport system. Senior officials, including the Interior Secretary and the Director General of Immigration and Passports, also attended the meeting.
Officials confirmed that the delivery period for normal passports will now be 14 days, down from the previous 21-day timeline. The move comes as authorities seek to address delays and improve efficiency in documentation services.
In addition, Naqvi directed officials to finalise the framework for introducing a business passport system in the near future, signalling further reforms in travel documentation procedures.
Meanwhile, the interior minister instructed authorities to implement a fully cashless payment system at passport offices within 15 days. He said the shift would help eliminate reliance on cash transactions, reduce opportunities for middlemen, and improve transparency.
Officials said the transition to digital payments is part of a wider effort to streamline operations and limit the influence of so-called agent networks that often facilitate unofficial processing.
Naqvi also stressed the need to strengthen institutional capacity and said establishing a dedicated passport authority was essential for long-term reform and improved service delivery.
He added that the government was committed to modernising the system to ensure faster processing times and greater convenience for applicants.
Officials said further measures are expected in the coming weeks as part of ongoing reforms in immigration and passport services.
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