Pakistan introduces inclusive identity policy in passports

Islamabad: A major change has been approved in Pakistan’s passport system, aimed at aligning with international standards and addressing local social needs.

According to sources, the new passports to be issued in the future will include not only the father's name but also the mother's name.

Officials from the Passport Directorate say the move is in line with global travel documentation practices and is intended to simplify identity verification and eliminate complications often faced by citizens during the issuance of travel documents.

Sources added that including the mother’s name will particularly benefit individuals whose fathers have passed away or who, for any reason, are estranged from their fathers and face difficulties in accessing official documents.

Under the new policy, applicants will be required to provide their mother’s name when applying for a passport, and it will be prominently displayed in the personal information section of the document.

Passport authorities believe the decision will not only improve Pakistan’s data integration with international systems but also strengthen citizens' fundamental rights—particularly the right to identity for women.