How Administrative Hurdles, Delays, and Bureaucracy Are Impacting Lives Abroad

Overseas Pakistanis continue to serve as a vital pillar of Pakistan’s economy—remitting billions, representing the nation globally, and enriching its image abroad. Yet, in 2025, this crucial community finds itself entangled in an increasingly frustrating web of passport-related issues. From arbitrary blockages to rampant delays, the challenges faced by expatriates in obtaining and renewing passports have reached unprecedented levels—prompting concern, protest, and a demand for urgent reform.

1. Sudden Passport Blockages & Arbitrary Cancellations

This year saw a dramatic escalation in passport blockages—many without any prior notice or legal justification. In a widely criticized move, the government ordered the blocking of passports and CNICs for Pakistani asylum seekers abroad, citing “national security” concerns. Thousands of expatriates were left stranded, with some waiting up to 60 days for reinstatement of their documents. Even now, affected individuals are grappling with slower renewal processes and bureaucratic red tape.

2. Corruption and Bribery at Airports and Missions

Disturbing reports have emerged of passport applicants being asked to pay exorbitant bribes—some as high as PKR 500,000—to expedite processing or lift passport blocks. Complaints lodged by expat communities, particularly in Europe and the Gulf, have triggered government pledges to investigate and eliminate corruption. Initiatives like facilitation desks at major airports have been announced, yet implementation remains uneven, and many still fall prey to unscrupulous intermediaries.

3. Delays That Derail Lives

A major pain point in 2025 has been the delay in passport processing, with standard applications taking up to four months and urgent requests stretching to six weeks or more. These delays are not just administrative inconveniences—they have real-world consequences. Students miss academic deadlines, workers lose jobs, and patients miss critical treatment appointments due to unavailability of valid travel documents.

The backlog has been blamed on outdated machinery, centralization of processing in Islamabad, and acute staffing shortages. In places like the UK, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, embassies have reported running out of blank passports, exacerbating already serious delays.

4. Hurdles for Dual Nationals and Document Verification

Dual nationals often face even more complications. Applications are delayed due to extended verification processes, particularly when references or documents from within Pakistan are required. With relatives in Pakistan forced to chase local authorities for attestations or NADRA verifications, what should be a straightforward renewal becomes a months-long ordeal.

5. Biometric and Digital Disruptions

While Pakistan’s shift toward digitizing passport services is commendable, technical glitches have plagued the system. Biometric mismatches, failed facial recognition, and frequent server errors often force applicants back to manual or in-person procedures. This disproportionately affects those living in countries with limited consular presence, forcing long, expensive travel for simple biometric updates.

6. Vulnerable Groups at Higher Risk

Among the hardest hit are students, migrant workers, and the elderly, many of whom lack the resources or flexibility to navigate these bureaucratic obstacles. Visa expiries, academic losses, missed work contracts, and emotional distress from being separated from family are just some of the consequences they face.

The Need for Structural Reform

Overseas Pakistanis deserve more than hollow promises and delayed services. They require a transparent, efficient, and corruption-free passport system that supports their lives abroad—not hinders them.

How We Can Help

At Jurist Panel, a distinguished law firm, we specialize in addressing complex passport-related and consular issues faced by overseas Pakistanis. Whether you’re dealing with delays, arbitrary cancellations, or documentation disputes, our experienced legal team offers tailored advice and effective solutions.

Contact us today to protect your rights and resolve your passport concerns with confidence.

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