How to Apply for Official and Diplomatic Passport
Official and diplomatic passports are issued only to government employees traveling on official duty (official passport) and diplomats, senior government officials, and their families (diplomatic passport). Applications go through your employing ministry/department, not directly to DGIP. These passports provide visa-free or expedited visa access to many countries.
Types of Pakistani Passports Explained
Most Pakistanis will never need an official or diplomatic passport — these are specialized travel documents for government representatives. Understanding what they are (and aren't) helps prevent wasted effort: if you're not a government employee traveling on duty, the standard ordinary passport is your only option.
For standard passports: renewal process and documents required. For e-passport features: e-passport guide.
Application Process for Special Passports
The process for this passport service follows DGIP's standard workflow. Visit the DGIP portal or your nearest passport office to initiate. Always verify current requirements on the official DGIP website as procedures can change.
Verify current fees and timelines. DGIP updates passport fees and processing times periodically. The figures in this guide are based on the latest available information — always confirm on the DGIP portal or Passport Asaan App before paying.
Restrictions and Responsibilities
- Applying directly at a passport office — official and diplomatic passport requests go through your employing ministry, not directly to DGIP.
- Assuming diplomatic passports are available to all government employees — only specific grades and positions qualify. Most government workers get official passports, not diplomatic.
- Using an official/diplomatic passport for personal travel — these are for official duty only. Personal travel requires an ordinary passport.
- Not returning the passport after leaving government service — official and diplomatic passports must be surrendered when you leave government employment.
Official & Diplomatic Passports — Explained
Senior government officials (grade 20+), diplomats, judges of superior courts, members of parliament, and their immediate family members. The list is defined by the government and varies by position.
Government employees traveling abroad on official duty — regardless of grade. The employing ministry/department requests the passport through DGIP for the specific travel.
No. Diplomatic and official passport applications are initiated by the government ministry or department, not by individuals. Your employer processes the request through official channels.
In many countries, yes — diplomatic passport holders receive visa-free entry or expedited visa processing. The specific countries and conditions depend on bilateral agreements between Pakistan and each country.