How to Obtain a Pakistani Passport for a Minor: Requirements, Fees and Procedure

Quick Answer

A Pakistani passport for a minor (a person under eighteen years of age) is issued under the Passports Act, 1974 and the Passport Rules, 2021 (S.R.O. 245(I)/2022), as amended by S.R.O. 1139(1)/2023. The minor must appear in person at a Regional Passport Office or a Pakistan Mission abroad, accompanied by either parent or a court-appointed legal guardian holding a valid CNIC or NICOP. The application requires a Child Registration Certificate (CRC/Form B) or Family Registration Certificate (FRC), proof of fee payment, and — where applicable — consent or custody documentation. The prescribed fee for a normal 36-page, five-year passport is PKR 4,500; urgent processing costs PKR 7,500. Normal processing currently takes approximately 21 working days, with urgent processing completing in about five working days. Passports issued to minors below fifteen years of age carry a maximum validity of five years. No separate “Form-P” exists; the relevant document is the Attestation Form for Minor Applicants, available from the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGI&P) online portal.

What the Law Says

The issuance of Pakistani passports is governed by two primary instruments:

1. The Passports Act, 1974 (XX of 1974) — the enabling statute that regulates departure from and entry into Pakistan, and the issuance of passports to citizens.

2. The Passport Rules, 2021 — notified through S.R.O. 245(I)/2022 dated 13 February 2022, which set out the documentary requirements, processing standards and validity periods for passport issuance.

Rule 2(i) of the Passport Rules, 2021 defines a “minor” as a person who has not attained eighteen years of age. This definition applies uniformly to all passport applications, whether the minor was born in Pakistan or abroad.

The Rules were subsequently amended by S.R.O. 1139(1)/2023/Passport Amendment Rules, 2021. However, no verified official source confirms that this amendment introduced a dedicated online submission facility specifically for minor applications. The online passport portal (onlinemrp.dgip.gov.pk) is presently limited to renewal of existing Machine Readable Passports (MRPs) for inland and overseas applicants, and to new passport applications for newborns of overseas Pakistanis. First-time applications for minors and modifications must be processed through a Regional Passport Office or a Pakistan Mission abroad.

Who This Applies To

These requirements apply to:

• Pakistani citizens under eighteen years of age, whether born in Pakistan or abroad.

• Children of Pakistani parents holding valid CNICs or NICOPs, where proof of relationship can be furnished.

• Children of the Pakistani diaspora who retain Pakistani citizenship but may lack a locally issued birth certificate, provided that alternative identity documents (such as a CRC, FRC, or NICOP) are supplied.

• Children under the guardianship of a court-appointed legal guardian, where the guardian can produce the guardianship certificate.

The rules apply equally to male and female children. There is no gender-based distinction in the documentary requirements for minor passport applications.

Practical Procedure

The verified procedure for obtaining a Pakistani passport for a minor is as follows:

1. Obtain the prescribed application documents. Collect the Attestation Form for Minor Applicants from the DGI&P online portal (onlinemrp.dgip.gov.pk) or from the relevant passport office. There is no form designated as “Form-P” for minors; the correct document is the Attestation Form.

2. Complete the form. The form must be signed by the father, mother, or legal guardian. Unsigned or partially signed forms are not accepted.

3. Gather the required documents. Assemble the original documents and photocopies as listed in the Requirements section below.

4. Visit the passport office. The minor must appear in person at a Regional Passport Office in Pakistan or a Pakistan Mission abroad. The minor must be accompanied by either parent or the legal guardian.

5. Submit the application. Present the original documents and photocopies at the customer service counter. The official will verify the documents and capture the minor’s photograph and biometric data.

6. Biometric capture. Fingerprints and facial biometrics are recorded for the minor. For minors aged ten and above, the updated CRC (with fingerprints and photograph) or Juvenile Card is required. For minors below ten years, the CRC/Form B or FRC is required.

7. Fee payment. Pay the prescribed fee via the QR-code-based system at the passport office, or through the designated bank challan.

8. Receive the receipt. A receipt indicating the expected collection date will be issued. The applicant can track the application status online using the receipt number.

9. Collect the passport. The passport must be collected by the applicant’s guardian, who must present their original CNIC at the time of collection. Home delivery options may be available in certain jurisdictions.

Documents Required

The following documents are required for a minor’s passport application, as verified against the Passport Rules, 2021 and the DGI&P’s published requirements:

Important note on photographs: The DGI&P specifies that passport photographs must be 35mm wide by 45mm high, in accordance with ICAO standards. The minor’s photograph is typically captured at the passport office during the application process; applicants should not assume that pre-printed photographs will be accepted.

Fees and Processing Times

Passport Fees (Verified Position as at 28 September 2026)

For 72-page and 100-page booklets, higher fees apply. The fee schedule is subject to revision by the Federal Government; applicants should verify the current amount at the time of application.

Processing Times

Processing timelines are measured from the date of biometric capture and are subject to the applicant’s documents being in order. Timelines may vary at overseas missions.

Validity

Under Rule 11 of the Passport Rules, 2021:

• A passport issued to a minor below fifteen years of age is restricted to a maximum validity of five years.

• A passport may be issued with a validity of five or ten years as per Federal Government policy.

• There is no restriction on the renewal of an ordinary passport before its expiry. However, the applicant must provide a justifiable statement explaining the reason for obtaining a new passport before the expiry of the existing one.

Exceptions and Special Circumstances

Single Parent or Divorced Parents

Where the parents of the minor are divorced or separated:

• If the applicant is the custodial parent, the passport may be issued upon production of the custody order granted by a court of law.

• If the application is made by either parent, explicit permission of the other parent is required, in the shape of the other parent’s physical presence or consent on duly attested non-judicial stamp paper.

• A guardianship certificate issued by a court of law is required where a legal guardian (not a parent) applies. The appointed guardian must visit the passport office personally with the minor, along with their original CNIC and photocopy.

Deceased Parent

Where either parent is deceased, the original death certificate along with a photocopy must be submitted.

Minors Born Abroad

Children of Pakistani parents born abroad may apply for a Pakistani passport through the nearest Pakistan Mission. The requirements include:

• Proof of the child’s Pakistani citizenship (CRC, FRC, or NICOP).

• Parents’ valid CNICs/NICOPs or Pakistani passports.

• The child’s foreign birth certificate.

• Where the child holds a foreign passport, the original foreign passport along with a photocopy.

Registration of the child’s birth with the Pakistan Mission (Form S) may be required before a passport application can be processed.

Lack of Birth Certificate

Where a child lacks a birth certificate, alternative documents such as a Child Registration Certificate (CRC), Family Registration Certificate (FRC), or school records may be accepted, subject to verification by the passport officer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Presenting photocopies instead of originals. Original documents are mandatory for verification. Photocopies alone will not be accepted.

2. Incorrect photograph dimensions. Photographs that do not meet the 35mm × 45mm specification with a white background will be rejected. In most cases, the photograph is captured at the passport office.

3. Unsigned or partially signed Attestation Forms. The Attestation Form for Minor Applicants must be signed by the father, mother, or legal guardian. Unsigned forms are not accepted.

4. Name mismatches. Discrepancies between the name on the birth certificate/CRC and the parents’ CNICs can cause delays. Ensure all documents are consistent.

5. Failure to produce custody or guardianship documentation. Where parents are divorced, separated, or where a guardian is applying, the relevant court orders must be produced in original.

6. Assuming online application is available for all minor cases. The DGI&P online portal is presently limited to renewals and newborn applications for overseas Pakistanis. First-time minor applications must be processed in person.

7. Incorrect fee payment. Ensure the correct fee is paid for the category selected (normal, urgent, or fast track). Fee once deposited is non-refundable, though it may be utilised for a subsequent application subject to verification.

Practical Compliance Checklist

Before visiting the passport office, confirm the following:

• Attestation Form for Minor Applicants completed and signed
• Child Registration Certificate (CRC/Form B) or Family Registration Certificate (FRC) — original and photocopy
• Juvenile Card (if applicable, for minors aged 10 and above)
• Parents’ original valid CNICs or NICOPs — originals and photocopies
• Proof of fee payment — original bank-paid challan or e-payment confirmation with PSID
• Previous passport — original and photocopy (if any)
• Foreign passport — original and photocopy (for dual nationals)
• Custody papers or guardianship certificate (if applicable)
• Consent of other parent on attested stamp paper (if applicable)
• Death certificate (if applicable)
• Lost passport police report (if applicable)
• Minor present in person, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• Guardian’s original CNIC for collection

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can a single parent apply for a minor’s passport without the other parent’s consent?

Yes, if the single parent has a custody order from a court of law. Under Rule 8(2)(h) of the Passport Rules, 2021, where the parents are divorced or separated, a passport may be issued if the applicant is the custodial parent. Where the application is made by either parent without a custody order, explicit permission of the other parent is required in the shape of physical presence or consent on duly attested non-judicial stamp paper.

Q2: What documents are required for a minor’s passport application?

The key documents are: the Attestation Form for Minor Applicants (signed by a parent or guardian), a Child Registration Certificate (CRC/Form B) or Family Registration Certificate (FRC), parents’ original valid CNICs or NICOPs, proof of fee payment, and — where applicable — custody papers, guardianship certificate, consent of the other parent, or death certificate.

Q3: How long is a Pakistani passport valid for a minor?

A passport issued to a minor below fifteen years of age is restricted to a maximum validity of five years under Rule 11(b) of the Passport Rules, 2021. Minors aged fifteen to eighteen may be eligible for longer validity as per Federal Government policy.

Q4: What is the fee for a minor’s passport in Pakistan?

As at 28 September 2026, the normal fee for a 36-page, five-year passport is PKR 4,500. Urgent processing costs PKR 7,500. Fast track processing costs PKR 12,500. Fees are subject to revision.

Q5: How long does it take to get a minor’s passport?

Normal processing takes approximately 21 working days from biometric capture. Urgent processing takes approximately five working days. Fast track processing takes approximately two working days.

Q6: Can a minor’s passport be applied for online?

The DGI&P online passport portal is presently limited to renewal of existing Machine Readable Passports and to new passport applications for newborns of overseas Pakistanis. First-time applications for minors and modifications must be processed in person at a Regional Passport Office or Pakistan Mission abroad.

Q7: What is the “Form-P” for a minor’s passport?

There is no official form designated as “Form-P” for minor passport applications. The correct document is the Attestation Form for Minor Applicants, available from the DGI&P online portal. For applicants below twelve years of age, Form B (DIP 2(REV)) may also be used in certain missions.

Q8: What are the photograph requirements for a minor’s passport?

Passport photographs must be 35mm wide by 45mm high, with a plain white background, taken within the last six months, showing a front-facing view with a neutral expression. In most cases, the photograph is captured at the passport office during the application process.

Q9: Can a guardian apply for a minor’s passport without the parents?

A court-appointed legal guardian may apply, provided they produce the guardianship certificate issued by a court of law. The guardian must visit the passport office personally with the minor, along with their original CNIC and photocopy.

Q10: What happens if the minor’s birth certificate is not available?

Alternative documents such as a Child Registration Certificate (CRC), Family Registration Certificate (FRC), or school records may be accepted, subject to verification by the passport officer. The DGI&P may require additional documents if there is any doubt about the minor’s national status.

Q11: Who can collect the minor’s passport?

The passport must be collected by the applicant’s guardian, who must present their original CNIC at the time of collection. Home delivery may be available in certain jurisdictions.

Q12: Is the minor required to appear in person at the passport office?

Yes. A minor seeking a passport must be accompanied by either parent or a legal guardian, and the minor’s biometric data (fingerprints and facial biometrics) must be captured. The minor’s personal appearance is mandatory.

Final Takeaway

Obtaining a Pakistani passport for a minor is a procedurally defined process under the Passports Act, 1974 and the Passport Rules, 2021. The essential requirements are: a completed Attestation Form for Minor Applicants, a CRC/Form B or FRC, parents’ valid CNICs/NICOPs, proof of fee payment, and the minor’s personal appearance accompanied by a parent or guardian. The prescribed fee for a normal five-year, 36-page passport is PKR 4,500, with urgent processing available at PKR 7,500. Normal processing takes approximately 21 working days. Where parents are divorced, separated, or where a guardian is applying, court-issued custody or guardianship documentation is required. There is no “Form-P” for minors; the correct document is the Attestation Form for Minor Applicants.

Pak Legal Desk CTA

If you require assistance with a minor’s passport application, guidance on custody or guardianship documentation, or advice on compliance with the Passport Rules, 2021, Pak Legal Desk can help. Our team provides practical legal support for families navigating Pakistani immigration and passport procedures.

References

1. Passports Act, 1974 (XX of 1974), Government of Pakistan.

2. Passport Rules, 2021, S.R.O. 245(I)/2022, Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan. https://dgip.gov.pk/downloads/PassportRules-2021.pdf

3. S.R.O. 1139(1)/2023/Passport Amendment Rules, 2021, Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan.

4. Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. (2026). General Requirements for Passport. https://dgip.gov.pk/passport/ordinary-passport.php

5. Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. (2026). Most Frequently Asked Questions. https://dgip.gov.pk/faq/faq.php

6. Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. (2026). Passport Application Process. https://dgip.gov.pk/passport/process.php

7. Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. (2026). Passport Types. https://dgip.gov.pk/passport/types.php

8. Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. (2022). Attestation Form for Minor Applicant. https://onlinemrp.dgip.gov.pk/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Attestation-form-Minor-applicant.pdf

9. National Database and Registration Authority. (2026). Process of applying through NADRA Registration Centre. https://www.nadra.gov.pk

Legal Information Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The legal position stated is based on the Passports Act, 1974 and the Passport Rules, 2021 as verified on 28 September 2026. Fees, processing times, and procedural requirements are subject to change. Readers should consult a qualified lawyer for guidance specific to their situation.