The federal government has announced major changes to passport regulations to streamline services for the public as now, passports can be obtained or renewed in any city across the country.
Under the updated rules, fees for all passport categories can be paid at any branch of the National Bank, making the process more accessible nationwide. The Ministry of Interior has submitted a summary of these amendments to the cabinet for approval.
If approved, the changes will make it possible for passports to be granted similarly to national identity cards, which will make the application process more user-friendly for applicants.
Last week, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar informed the National Assembly that new machinery and software would be installed to increase the passport printing capacity to 60,000 per day by the end of September.
Responding to a ‘Calling Attention Notice’ from PPP members regarding delays in passport issuance, the minister expressed optimism that the new system would help clear the existing backlog of applications.
