The government has introduced an important reform allowing married women to keep their father’s name on their Passport. The decision aims to support women’s identity and personal choice in official documents.
The announcement was made by the Director General of Immigration and Passports. Officials said the new policy marks a major change in Pakistan’s passport rules.
According to authorities, the reform was introduced following orders from the Lahore High Court. The court directed officials to update the Passport system to provide greater flexibility for married women.
Previously, many women were required to replace their father’s name with their husband’s name on travel documents. The new policy removes this requirement and gives women the option to retain their paternal identity.
Officials explained that the updated Passport format now allows married women to keep their original family details. This change means their documents can remain consistent even after marriage.
The policy also ensures that passport records match information listed on the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). Women can now keep the same CNIC details, including their father’s name, on their Passport.
Authorities say this adjustment will reduce unnecessary changes to official records. It will also make the documentation process easier for many women.
Government officials confirmed that the necessary updates to the passport system have already been completed. The upgrades were carried out with guidance from the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Law.
The technical improvements allow the new policy to be implemented smoothly across passport offices. Officials say the system now supports the updated documentation requirements.
DG Immigration and Passports Mustafa Jamal Qazi instructed authorities to ensure the reform is applied effectively. Officials say the changes will help simplify procedures for applicants.
Government representatives described the reform as an important step toward protecting women’s rights. By allowing women to keep their father’s name on their Passport, the policy promotes personal identity and independence.
Officials believe the decision will also improve the overall passport process. It removes the need for mandatory changes to personal information after marriage.
The new policy reflects efforts to modernize documentation procedures in Pakistan. Authorities say it will help create a more flexible and inclusive system for passport holders.
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With this reform in place, married women now have greater control over their identity in official documents. The updated Passport rules aim to ensure dignity, choice, and consistency in personal records.
