Pakistan Announces a Timeline to Phase Out Traditional Passports

Pakistan is moving towards a complete transition to e-passports. Authorities have announced a timeline to phase out traditional passports.

In this article we set out what the shift is for, and the dates the announcement does not give. Here is everything you need to know.

What the move to e-passports is meant to change

The stated aims are to modernise passport services and to strengthen security through digital technology. Travellers are told to stay updated on the official rollout and on any changes to application procedures. The announcement says a timeline has been set to phase out traditional passports. It does not state the dates in that timeline.

Why it matters

A complete transition would mean new applications move off the traditional passport. Until the official dates and the new application steps are published, travellers only know that a timeline has been announced and that procedures may change.

• Pakistan is moving towards a complete transition
• A timeline has been announced
• Traditional passports are to be phased out
• Services are meant to be modernised
• Security through digital technology is the other aim
• Application procedures may change

What this announcement leaves open

1. The dates in the timeline.
2. Whether existing traditional passports stay valid until they expire.
3. The new application steps.
4. Any fee change.

What happens next

Travellers should follow the official rollout. We will update this article if the timeline dates or the new application rules are published.

Our verdict

Pakistan is moving towards a complete switch to e-passports, and authorities have announced a timeline to phase out traditional passports. The dates in that timeline are not stated.

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