Government Confirms No Reduction in E-Passport Fees Amid Revenue Surge

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Interior has announced that there are no plans to reduce e-passport fees, which have nearly doubled in recent years. The government collected a staggering Rs219.931 billion in passport fees from the 2021-22 to 2025-26 financial years, as revealed in a written response to Senator Talha Mahmood’s inquiry.

The ministry provided a detailed year-wise breakdown of the revenue generated from passport fees, indicating a significant increase that reflects the growing demand for e-passports. This decision comes despite public calls for a reduction in fees, which many citizens find burdensome.

This development raises concerns among citizens who rely on affordable passport services for travel and identification. The increase in fees could further strain the financial capabilities of many families, especially in the context of rising inflation and economic challenges facing the country.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Interior is expected to continue monitoring the revenue generated from passport fees, but no immediate changes to the fee structure are anticipated. Stakeholders and citizens alike will be watching closely for any future announcements regarding potential reforms in passport services.