No, a passport is not free in Pakistan; applicants are required to pay specific fees based on the type of passport, number of pages, and processing urgency.
Understanding Pakistani Passport Fees
Obtaining a passport in Pakistan involves a fee structure determined by the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGI&P). These fees cover the administrative costs, production, and services associated with issuing the travel document. The cost varies significantly depending on several factors, ensuring that citizens can choose an option that best suits their needs and budget.
Key Factors Influencing Passport Costs
The fees for a Pakistani passport are primarily influenced by:
- Processing Type:
- Normal: The standard processing time.
- Urgent: Faster processing for those needing their passport sooner.
- Executive: The fastest processing option with premium services.
- Number of Pages:
- 36 Pages: Suitable for infrequent travelers.
- 72 Pages: Ideal for regular travelers.
- 100 Pages: Designed for very frequent international travelers.
Detailed Fee Structure
As of the latest updates, the fee for a Normal Passport having 36 Pages is Rs. 4,500/- only. This is the most common and standard option for many Pakistani citizens. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the passport fees across various categories:
| Passport Type / Pages | Normal Processing (PKR) | Urgent Processing (PKR) | Executive Processing (PKR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 Pages | 4,500 | 7,500 | 13,500 |
| 72 Pages | 6,750 | 11,250 | 20,250 |
| 100 Pages | 9,000 | 15,000 | 27,000 |
Note: These fees are subject to change by the government. Always refer to the official Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGI&P) website for the most current information.
How to Apply for a Pakistani Passport
The application process for a Pakistani passport is streamlined to be relatively straightforward. Applicants typically need to follow these steps:
- Fee Payment: Deposit the applicable fee at designated banks. An online Challan form can be generated for this purpose.
- Visit a Passport Office: Go to the nearest Regional Passport Office (RPO).
- Document Verification: Present your original Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) and a copy.
- Biometric Data: Provide fingerprints and a digital photograph.
- Interview: A brief interview may be conducted by the passport official.
- Application Submission: Submit the completed application form.
- Collection: The passport will be delivered via courier service to your provided address within the specified processing time for your chosen category.
For more detailed information on the application process, required documents, and the latest fee structure, it is highly recommended to visit the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports.
