Big change in Pakistani passports! What should those with old passports do?
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There have been significant changes regarding Pakistani passports and visas, particularly for those traveling to the UK, and in the passport issuance process within Pakistan. Here's a breakdown and what old passport holders should do: Key Changes: * UK eVisas for Pakistani Students and Workers: As oRead more
There have been significant changes regarding Pakistani passports and visas, particularly for those traveling to the UK, and in the passport issuance process within Pakistan. Here’s a breakdown and what old passport holders should do:
See lessKey Changes:
* UK eVisas for Pakistani Students and Workers: As of July 15, 2025, most Pakistani main applicants traveling to the UK on study or work-related visas no longer need a physical sticker visa in their passports. Instead, they will have a digital proof of immigration status (eVisa) accessed through an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. This doesn’t affect existing physical visas, which remain valid until expiry.
* Faster Passport Printing in Pakistan: Pakistan has introduced new AI-powered passport printing machines capable of producing a much higher volume of passports per hour. This is aimed at significantly reducing backlogs and waiting times for passport issuance nationwide. New passports also incorporate NFC technology for enhanced security.
* Biometric/e-Passports: Pakistan officially launched biometric (e-passports) in 2022, with general issuance commencing in January 2024. These e-passports have an embedded electronic chip and 29 advanced security features.
What to do if you have an old Pakistani passport:
Generally, if your existing Pakistani passport is still valid, you don’t need to take immediate action unless:
* Your passport is expiring soon: You should apply for renewal. Pakistani citizens can apply for renewal online if their passport has less than 7 months validity. If it’s valid for more than 12 months, you’ll likely need to visit an embassy or consulate for renewal.
* You are traveling to the UK for study or work: While your existing physical visa may still be valid, be aware of the shift to eVisas for new applications. If you are applying for a new UK study or work visa, you will likely be issued an eVisa rather than a sticker.
* You wish to upgrade to an e-passport: While not mandatory until renewal, the new e-passports offer enhanced security features. When you renew your passport, you will automatically be issued the latest biometric version.
* You need to modify particulars in your passport: Any changes to your personal details (name, date of birth, etc.) must first be updated in your NADRA CNIC/NICOP before you can apply for a modified passport.
How to Renew Your Pakistani Passport (Especially in Saudi Arabia):
For Pakistani citizens residing in Saudi Arabia, passport renewal services are available at the Pakistani Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah.
General requirements for renewal typically include:
* Original valid CNIC/NICOP and a photocopy.
* Original previous passport and a photocopy of relevant pages.
* Original Iqama/Resident Permit and a copy.
* Personal appearance for photo and biometric (digital fingerprints) capture.
Key points for renewal in Saudi Arabia:
* You may need to book an appointment through services like BLS International, which handle some of the initial processes.
* Fees vary depending on the passport validity (5 or 10 years) and the number of pages (36, 72, or 100), as well as whether you choose normal or urgent processing.
* Normal processing usually takes around 4 weeks, while urgent processing takes approximately 2 weeks.
* The Machine Readable Passport (MRP) system relies on NADRA data, so a valid CNIC/NICOP is essential.
It’s always advisable to check the official websites of the Embassy of Pakistan in Riyadh or the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah for the most up-to-date requirements, fees, and procedures, as these can change.