The Federal government decided to introduce a major change to the national passport, making it mandatory to include the mother’s name alongside the father's on all newly issued and renewed passports. A spokesperson for the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports said that the move has been taken in line with international standards and evolving social requirements.The change aims to align Pakistani passports with global documentation norms while acknowledging the importance of both parents' identities.

The updated format would apply to all newly issued passports as well as those being renewed.However, the announcement has raised questions among passport holders about whether they will be required to replace their existing passports. The officials clarified that the current passports would remain valid until their expiry dates.The new rule would be implemented only for passports issued after the policy comes into effect. A final policy detailing the implementation process is yet to be officially released.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)