Passport Offices in 8 Major Cities to Remain Open Until Midnight
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has extended working hours at eight major regional passport offices across Pakistan, providing additional convenience to citizens applying for new passports or related services.
Under the new double-shift system, the first shift will operate from 8am to 4pm, while the second shift will continue from 4pm until midnight. The extended schedule came into effect on August 20, 2026.
According to the government, the initiative has been introduced to improve public access to passport services and provide greater flexibility to citizens who are unable to visit passport offices during conventional working hours.
The extended working hours will apply on weekdays at the selected major regional passport offices. The move is expected to reduce pressure on passport offices during regular working hours and provide applicants with additional time to complete their applications and related procedures.
The government has been taking steps to improve passport-related services and make the application process more accessible for citizens. The latest decision is part of efforts to facilitate people who face difficulties visiting government offices during the daytime due to work, business or other commitments.
Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports has also been reviewing plans to expand e-passport services for overseas Pakistanis.
A meeting chaired by Director General Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa reviewed the performance of different departments and progress on ongoing initiatives. Officials briefed the meeting about the e-passport system, including its enhanced security features and compliance with international standards.
The proposed expansion of e-passport facilities for overseas Pakistanis was also discussed. Officials considered measures aimed at making passport services more efficient, convenient and accessible for citizens living abroad.
Randhawa emphasized the importance of digital transformation and improving institutional performance. He directed officials to prioritize necessary legal and policy reforms and assigned responsibilities for implementing the planned measures.
The government’s latest move to extend passport office hours until midnight is expected to provide additional relief to applicants, particularly those who cannot visit passport offices during the daytime.
Citizens seeking passport services are advised to check the applicable office schedule and requirements before visiting to avoid unnecessary delays.
