The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) has firmly denied circulating reports on social media regarding reported modifications to the Pakistani passport, describing them as baseless.
In an official statement, the department stated that no changes have been introduced to the outer page of the national passport, adding that the visuals spreading on social media e in this context are “fake”.
The directorate called on the public to verify information and avoid paying attention to fake news being shared across social networks.
It further stated that no modification has been implemented in the Pakistani passport, except for the introduction of upgraded safety features.
The DGIP also warned that legal action will be taken against those involved in circulating misinformation related to the Pakistani passport.
Pakistan to Introduce Redesigned Passports with Enhanced Features
Earlier last week, the Government of Pakistan had decided to fully redesign its national passports, introducing new colors, layouts, and enhanced security features for ordinary, official, and diplomatic travel documents.
According to official sources, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports has received formal approval from the Ministry of Interior to initiate the redesign process. The new passports will feature images of historic and culturally significant landmarks from all four provinces, symbolizing national heritage and unity.
One of the key updates includes the addition of the mother’s name alongside the father’s name on the passport, a move aimed at improving identity verification and aligning with international documentation standards.
Officials have also confirmed that the redesigned passport will incorporate advanced security elements to prevent forgery and misuse. Printing of the new passport booklets will begin soon under the supervision of the Pakistan Security Printing Corporation.
“This redesign is part of a broader effort to modernize the passport system and bring it in line with global best practices,” according to an interior ministry official.
The existing types of passports, ordinary, official, and diplomatic, will continue to be issued, but with the updated design and features. The validity of the new passports will remain unchanged, with options for five or ten years and a five-year validity for children under 15.
The Pakistani passport is an essential travel document confirming both the identity and citizenship of the bearer. Applications can be submitted online or at designated passport offices and consulates.
Authorities have clarified that aside from the updated design and security enhancements, no other major changes will be made to the passport issuance process or its legal structure.
