Islamabad: In response to the surge in demand, passport offices across Pakistan have extended their operating hours to accommodate the increasing number of applicants. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passport has announced that passport delivery counters will now be open on weekends until March 15, 2024.
Mustafa Qazi, the Director General of Immigration and Passports, stated that this initiative aims to assist Hajj pilgrims by allowing them to visit passport delivery centers on Saturdays and Sundays until mid-March. Additionally, individuals planning to travel abroad can now visit passport offices from 9 am to 1 pm, including Fridays, to collect their passports.
Qazi highlighted that the issuance of passports for Hajj pilgrims has commenced nationwide, bringing relief to thousands preparing for the pilgrimage. Furthermore, regional passport offices are operational on Saturdays to provide assistance with passport applications.
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The passport application process includes biometric verification and submission of passports to designated banks. Qazi emphasized the importance of pilgrims adhering to deadlines for timely processing of their applications.
It’s important to note that the deadline for passport submission to banks is February 26, 2024. With these extended hours and streamlined procedures, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passport aims to provide efficient services to meet the needs of applicants, particularly during this busy period.