Pakistan plans nationwide shift to e-passports to curb fraud

The federal government has decided in principle to phase out machine-readable passports and transition entirely to e-passports, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on Friday.

Chairing a special meeting at the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports headquarters in Islamabad, the minister said the move would enhance security, improve international compatibility and provide a smoother travel experience for Pakistani citizens.

Naqvi said the complete adoption of e-passports would help eliminate passport-related fraud and forgery. He was briefed on ongoing reforms by Director General Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa during the meeting.

Although the decision to move fully to e-passports was approved in principle, authorities did not specify a timeline for discontinuing machine-readable passports.

E-passports contain an embedded electronic chip that securely stores biometric and personal data, including facial information, identification details and a digital signature. The contactless chip allows information to be read wirelessly by border control systems and compatible devices.