Pakistan has enabled cashless transactions at all passport offices across the country, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on Wednesday, saying the move would help cut long queues and ensure speedier service for citizens.
New Cashless System Launched
In a post on X, Naqvi stated: “Alhamdulillah, starting today, cashless transactions are operational at all Passport Offices across Pakistan. This is another step toward making public services faster, more transparent, and more convenient for our citizens.” He highlighted that the initiative was launched under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives and would ensure that applicants no longer have to wait in long queues for hours to make payments.
How It Works
The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports explained the payment process in a separate post on X, saying that applicants simply have to scan a QR code, make the payment, and get their passports made. “Through any banking app or digital wallet, this 24/7 payment facility is available,” the post read.
Background and Impact
Citizens every day wait in long queues at passport offices across the country to have new passports issued or renew existing ones. Most transactions at passport offices across Pakistan previously involved cash. The latest move is part of Pakistan’s efforts to transition toward a cashless economy. Sharif has repeatedly said Islamabad intends to adopt cashless transactions to reduce corruption, tax evasion, and increase financial transparency. Pakistan issues machine-readable and e-passports for better security and easier travel.
