In a recent announcement, the government of Pakistan has decided to increase the fees for fast-track passports. This change, effective from May 8th, is significant and is expected to impact many citizens who opt for this service.
The fee for a 36-page Machine Readable (MR) passport, valid for five years, has been increased to Rs. 12,500. This is a substantial rise from the previous fee, making it one of the most expensive in the region. The government has justified this increase by citing the need for additional resources to maintain and improve the quality of passport services.
This is not the first time that the government has increased passport fees. In the past, there have been incremental increases in the costs for ordinary and urgent passports. However, this latest increase in fast-track passports is one of the most significant in recent years.
Implications of the Fee Increase
The increase in passport fees is likely to have a significant impact on Pakistani citizens, particularly those who frequently travel abroad. Business professionals, students studying overseas, and vacation-planning families often utilize fast-track passports, requiring expedited processing times. The new fee could potentially discourage these individuals from using the fast-track service, leading to longer wait times for regular passport processing.
Moreover, the fee hike may also affect overseas Pakistani workers, who constitute a significant portion of the country’s foreign exchange earnings. These workers often need to renew their passports quickly to maintain their employment status abroad. The increased cost could pose a financial burden, particularly for those earning lower wages.
Government’s Justification
The government has justified the fee increase by stating that it is necessary to maintain and improve the quality of passport services. This includes the cost of implementing advanced security features in the passport to prevent forgery and identity theft. Additionally, the government has cited the need to upgrade infrastructure and provide better customer service at passport offices across the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the increase in passport fees may help to improve the quality of services, the government needs to consider the financial impact on Pakistani citizens. A balanced approach that ensures the affordability of passports while maintaining high-quality services would be in the best interest of all stakeholders.
Read Also: Apple Set To Reveal Latest iPad Tablets Live Today
