The Government of Pakistan is preparing to introduce a nationwide cashless payment system for passport fees as part of broader efforts to modernize public services and improve transparency in the passport issuance process.
The move is being implemented by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) under the Ministry of Interior, with authorities aiming to eliminate cash transactions at passport offices across the country.
Digital Payments to Replace Cash Transactions
Under the new system, passport applicants will be able to pay fees digitally through mobile banking apps, ATMs, internet banking platforms, JazzCash, Easypaisa, and other 1-Link supported channels instead of depositing cash manually at bank branches.
Officials say the transition to cashless payments is intended to improve transparency, reduce delays, and curb the role of agents and intermediaries often involved in the passport application process.
According to reports, passport offices have been directed to complete the transition within a short implementation timeline as part of the government’s digital reform agenda.
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DGIP Expands Digital Passport Services
The cashless payment initiative is part of a wider digital transformation program being introduced by DGIP. Authorities are also working on several additional reforms, including:
- Home delivery services for passports
- Digital chatbot assistance for applicants
- Faster passport processing timelines
- Online complaint handling systems
- Expanded digital support services
Officials confirmed that ordinary passport processing time has already been reduced from 21 days to 14 days to improve public convenience.
Passport Fee Asaan System Already Active
Pakistan has already introduced the “Passport Fee Asaan” digital platform, which allows applicants to calculate passport fees, generate payment slips (PSID), and make online payments through multiple digital channels.
The platform supports payments via:
- Internet banking
- ATM transactions
- Mobile wallets
- JazzCash
- Easypaisa
- 1-Link member banks
Users can also track payment status and submit complaints digitally through the system.
Government Pushes Public Sector Digitization
The latest reform reflects Pakistan’s broader push toward digitization and cashless governance services. Authorities believe digital payment systems can help improve efficiency, reduce corruption risks, and simplify procedures for citizens.
The government is also exploring additional passport reforms, including special business passports, upgraded delivery systems, and enhanced digital identity infrastructure.
Industry observers believe the transition toward cashless passport services could become a significant step in improving Pakistan’s public service delivery ecosystem while encouraging wider adoption of digital financial systems nationwide.
