Pakistan’s passport system is managed by the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGIP), which offers a range of services to citizens at home and abroad. Pakistani passports are covered in this guide, including application steps, types, fees, delivery times, and tracking your passport.
Why Tracking Your Pakistani Passport Matters
Traveling abroad, working abroad, or studying abroad requires tracking your passport application. Real-time updates can help you stay informed and prepared in the event of delays. You can monitor your passport application from anywhere through the DGIP and official portal.
How to Track Your Pakistani Passport Status
- Online Tracking:
- Use the official DGIP website or passportstatuscheck.pk.
- SMS Tracking:
- Send your token number to 9988 for instant updates.
- Helpline and In-Person Assistance:
- Call 051-9212829 or visit your local passport office for direct support.
Types of Pakistani Passports
Pakistan issues several types of passport, each serving a specific purpose.
| Type | Who Can Get It? | Validity | Color |
| Ordinary Passport | All citizens for general travel | 5 or 10 years | Green |
| Diplomatic Passport | Diplomats, high-ranking officials | 5 years | Red |
| Official Passport | Government officials on official duty | 5 years | Blue |
| E-Passport | All citizens (nationwide since 2023) | 5 or 10 years | Green |
- Ordinary Passport: Issued to all Pakistani citizens for international travel.
- Diplomatic Passport: Reserved for diplomats, the president, prime minister, and other high-ranking officials.
- Official Passport: Required for travel on official business by government officials, judges, and legislators.
- E-Passport: Biometric passport with enhanced security features, now available to all citizens.
How to Get a Passport and Travel
- Visa Requirements:
- Pakistani passport holders need visas for most international travel.
- As of mid-2025, the Pakistani passport is ranked 100th for travel freedom, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a limited number of countries.
- Travel Preparation:
- Always check visa requirements before booking your trip.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Passport Fees (2025 Update)
| Passport Type | Pages | Validity | Normal Fee (PKR) | Urgent Fee (PKR) |
| Ordinary Passport | 36 | 5 years | 5,000 | 9,000 |
| Ordinary Passport | 72 | 10 years | 6,500 | 11,000 |
| E-Passport | 36 | 5 years | 9,000 | 15,000 |
| E-Passport | 72 | 10 years | 16,000 | 27,000 |
Fees may vary slightly based on location and service type.
Passport Delivery Times: Latest Updates
| Category | Pages | Validity | Official Delivery Time | Realistic Delivery Time |
| Normal | 36 | 5 years | 21 working days | 21–30 days |
| Normal | 36 | 10 years | 21 working days | 21–30 days |
| Urgent | 36 | 5 years | 5 working days | 5–15 days |
| Urgent | 36 | 10 years | 5 working days | 5–15 days |
| Fast Track | 36 | 5 years | 2 working days | 2–3 days |
| E-Passport | 36 | 5 years | 5–10 working days | 5–10 days |
Depending on office workload, location, and public holidays, delivery times may vary. Overseas applicants may experience longer processing times due to shipping and consular procedures.
Passport Status Messages
Status |
Meaning |
Application Accepted |
Application received |
Data Entry |
Details being processed |
Printing |
Passport being printed |
Dispatched |
Ready for pickup or delivery |
How to Apply for a Pakistani Passport
- Gather Required Documents
- Original CNIC/NICOP
- Previous passport (for renewal)
- Passport-sized photos
- Fee payment receipt
- Visit Your Nearest Passport Office
- Submit your documents
- Get your photo and fingerprints taken
- Pay the applicable fee
- Choose Your Processing Type
- Normal: 21 working days
- Urgent: 5 working days (official), but may take up to 15 days
- Fast Track: 2 working days (select cities)
- E-Passport: 5–10 working days
- Track Your Application
- Use your token number, CNIC, or mobile number to track online or via SMS
- Collect Your Passport
- Receive notification when ready for collection or delivery
Passport Tracking for Overseas Pakistanis
Whether you’re in the UAE, UK, USA, or elsewhere, you can track your passport application using the same online and SMS methods. The process is identical, and you’ll receive updates via email or SMS if you’ve provided your contact details.
Tips for a Smooth Passport Application Process
- Double-check your documents before submission.
- Keep your token number safe for tracking and collection.
- Monitor your application status regularly to avoid surprises.
- Contact DGIP for help if you encounter issues.
Latest Updates and Innovations
- E-Passport Rollout: E-passports are now available nationwide, offering enhanced security and faster immigration processing at airports.
- Home Delivery: Available in major cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar (expanding soon).
- Restored SMS Tracking: The government has returned to a simple SMS tracking system due to popular demand.
Conclusion
Pakistani passport applications and tracking have never been easier. Travel with confidence knowing you have multiple tracking options, transparent fees, and faster processing times. To apply for or renew a passport, use the official DGIP portal or trusted third-party websites.
