KARACHI: Karachi residents in need of new passports are facing longer-than-promoted processing times, particularly for the normal and urgent categories. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGI&P) offers three options for passport processing: Normal, Urgent, and Fast Track.

Normal Category: Advertised to be issued within 21 working days, but reported delays extend up to 3 months.

Urgent Category: Promised to be issued within 5 working days, but delays of over 1.5 months have been reported.

Fast Track Category: Advertised to be issued within 2 working days, and generally meeting the promised timeframe.

These delays are affecting various segments of the population, including Umrah pilgrims, students, and job seekers requiring passports for travel.

While the reasons for the delays remain unclear, the Fast Track category appears to be operating closer to its advertised timeframe. Individuals in urgent need of passports are advised to consider this option despite the higher fee.

Read more: Passport delay period reaches 3 months across the country

For those opting for normal and urgent categories, it is recommended to be prepared for delays beyond the advertised timeframe. Applicants are also encouraged to contact the DGI&P for updates on their specific applications.

The prolonged processing times are causing inconvenience and frustration among Karachi residents, highlighting the need for improved efficiency and transparency in the passport issuance process.