Internet Problems Lead to Delays in Passport Processing Across the Country

Pakistan-Citizens attempting to obtain passports are experiencing severe difficulties due to substantial delays in the issuance process, despite having paid substantial fees.

Passport offices across the country are witnessing long queues and large crowds, with frustrated applicants waiting for hours without receiving their documents. Many are unable to even submit their applications.

The administration attributes the delay to a technical problem, explaining that the computerized system is down due to an internet link failure. However, officials have not provided a clear timeline for when the issue will be resolved, leaving applicants uncertain about when they will receive their passports.

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Those who arrived at the passport offices expecting quick processing now find themselves stuck in uncertainty, with no clear timeline for when the situation will be resolved. Many citizens have voiced concerns about how these delays are affecting their travel plans, job opportunities, and other important commitments.

In a recent government initiative to streamline the renewal of new and old passports, the Ministry of Interior has submitted a summary to the cabinet for an amendment to the passport rules. Once the amendment is approved, citizens will be able to apply for passports from any city, simplifying the process for those planning to travel abroad for immigration, education, or employment purposes.

Many Pakistani nationals are currently pursuing visas for the United States, the United Kingdom, and various European countries. The rule changes will come into effect following the cabinet’s approval.

To address the ongoing passport printing issues, authorities had previously announced plans to procure substantial new equipment. This initiative includes acquiring 20 new laminators and printers, along with five state-of-the-art Reprint Management Printers (RMPs) and two e-passport printers.

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These new machines were intended to significantly enhance passport production capacity. Authorities stated that the upgraded printers and laminators would allow the issuance of up to 1,000 passports per hour. This improvement is expected to increase the daily printing capacity from the current 22,000 passports to approximately 55,000.

In anticipation of the higher production output, authorities have also secured a six-month supply of lamination paper. This strategic move is expected to help clear the backlog, with normal operations projected to resume by the last week of September.

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