Pakistan to add mother’s name on all new passports
Existing passports will stay valid until their expiry dates
ISLAMABAD/DUBAI: Pakistan has announced a major policy change to its passport system, with the inclusion of the holder’s mother’s name in all newly issued and renewed passports.
This new measure has been confirmed by Director General of Immigration and Passports, Mustafa Jamal Kazi, during an interview with a private television channel.
Kazi stated that the decision comes in response to international documentation norms and growing societal needs. He explained that including the mother’s name not only brings Pakistani passports in line with global standards but also addresses significant challenges faced by single mothers and their children in the country.
Addressing legal gaps
Until now, Pakistani identity documents and passports have carried only the father’s name. This has created obstacles in legal and administrative matters for single-parent households. Kazi highlighted that developed nations have already incorporated both parents' names in identity documents, which has resulted in fewer complications for citizens internationally.
Officials from the passport department confirmed that all newly issued passports will carry the names of both parents to prevent further legal complications. The updated policy is being seen as a step toward more inclusive documentation in Pakistan.
Clarifying validity concerns
Following the announcement, questions have surfaced regarding the validity of existing passports. Authorities have clarified that currently valid passports will remain in effect until their expiry and will not need to be changed unless renewed under the new system.
The Directorate General also noted that passport offices nationwide are being briefed on the new process to ensure a smooth transition for applicants.
Pakistan passport fee details
The current fees remain unchanged:
- A 36-page passport (5-year validity) costs PKR4,500 (normal) and PKR7,500 (urgent).
- For a 10-year validity, the fee is PKR6,700 (normal) and PKR11,200 (urgent).
- A 72-page passport (5-year) costs PKR8,200 (normal) and PKR13,500 (urgent).
- A 100-page passport (10-year) costs PKR12,400 (normal) and PKR20,200 (urgent).
Delivery time for normal processing is 21 working days; urgent cases take five days.