Watch: New German machines boost Pakistan’s passport printing capacity to 1,000 per hour
The aim is to streamline passport processing and reduce delays
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s passport system is set for a major efficiency boost with the arrival of two advanced e-passport printers and six desktop printers from Germany.
The new equipment landed in Karachi and will soon be installed to expedite the passport issuance process across the country.
To ensure a seamless transition, a team of foreign technical experts has also arrived to oversee the installation and operational setup.
Expanding the capacity
Director-General of Passports, Mustafa Jamal Qazi, inspected the newly arrived machines at the e-printer section and received a detailed briefing on their capabilities. The high-speed printers are designed to process up to 1,000 passports per hour, significantly increasing Pakistan’s ability to handle growing demand. Once fully operational, these printers will drastically reduce processing times and enhance service delivery for applicants nationwide.
The latest upgrade follows a major technological enhancement last year when 10 modern passport printers were introduced. That move doubled the production capacity of the Passport Department, allowing it to process 40,000 passports daily, up from the previous limit of 20,000. With the addition of the newly acquired German printers, further improvements in efficiency and output are expected.
Foreign collaboration
A team of foreign technical experts has been deployed to ensure the smooth installation and integration of the printers. Their expertise will help the Passport Department optimise the new technology for peak performance. According to Qazi, the enhanced system will streamline operations, making passport processing faster and more reliable.
In addition to increasing output, the new equipment is expected to improve print quality and security features, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to offering top-tier passport services. Further shipments of advanced e-printers are scheduled to arrive in the coming months, promising even greater efficiency in the near future.
Where does Pakistan’s passport rank?
Pakistan’s passport remains among the least powerful in the world. The Henley Passport Index ranks it at 103rd place, tied with Yemen, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 33 destinations. Meanwhile, the Passport Index by Arton Capital places it at 89th, with a mobility score of 46, granting visa-free access to nine countries and visa-on-arrival access to 34.
The latest technological improvements aim to enhance service quality for passport holders, though the global ranking remains a challenge for international mobility.