A valid passport is essential for international travel, especially for Hajj on a Pakistani passport. We know the process can feel complicated, so this step-by-step guide simplifies it.
PASSPORT FOR HAJJ: UK residents applying for their first Pakistani passport should be aware that during the application process, the address listed on your NADRA card will be verified by authorities in Pakistan. This verification can take between 2-3 months to complete.
To avoid delays, we strongly recommend starting the application process 4-5 months before your intended travel date. For those planning to perform Hajj in June 2025, it’s advisable to submit your passport application by December 2024 to ensure you receive it in time.
Affordable Hajj with a Pakistani Passport (UK)
Currently, to perform Hajj from the UK, you must apply directly through the Saudi Nusuk App, with costs potentially exceeding £9,000 per person.
However, a more affordable alternative is available for those with a Pakistani passport. If you hold a Pakistani NADRA card, you are eligible to obtain a Pakistani passport, allowing you to perform Hajj from the UK at a significantly reduced price
1. Eligibility For A Machine Readable Passport (MRP)
Before starting your application, ensure that you have one of the following valid original documents issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA):
- Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC)
- National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)
- Smart National ID Card
- Computerized Child Registration Certificate (CRC/Form B) for applicants under 18 years
For minors (under 18 years of age), ensure you have:
- Child’s CRC or NADRA Smart Card
- Both parents’ original and valid CNICs, along with photocopies
If you do not have any of the above documents, you will need to apply for one through NADRA first. The application for MRP can only be processed after receiving one of these documents.
2. Book An Appointment
All MRP services are strictly appointment-based. Here’s how to book your appointment online at the Pakistani High Commission or its Consulates to avoid any inconvenience.
- Choose your nearest consulate or the High Commission (London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bradford, or Glasgow).
- Glasgow: Book via their WhatsApp number (text-only): +447378790257
- For other cities, visit the High Commission’s online appointment system to book your date and time.
- You can reschedule or cancel your appointment if needed.
Note: The High Commission and Consulates do not offer MRP services without prior appointments.
3. Required Documents For Appointment
To ensure smooth processing, it’s crucial to have all your documents prepared and organized. This part details exactly what you need to bring on your appointment day.
- Valid Original CNIC/NICOP/Smart ID/CRC
- Existing Passport (if applicable)
- Parents’ CNICs (for children under 18)
- Marriage or Divorce Certificate (for name or status changes)
- Court Orders or Mutual Custody Agreements (if applying for a child’s passport where parents are separated)
- Police Report (for lost passport cases)
- If you are a dual national applying for the first time, bring your British passport along with a copy.
NOTE: Ensure your NICOP/NADRA card is up to date with your current UK and Pakistan addresses, as your address will be verified in Pakistan during the passport application process. This verification can take 2-3 months.
4. During The Appointment
Knowing what to expect on the day of your appointment can help make your visit efficient. This section guides you on the process once you arrive at the designated office.
- Arrive on time as per your appointment. (consider being 20 minutes early)
- Visit the reception area upon arrival and wait for your turn.
- MRP staff will call you for initial document verification at the counter.
- If the documents are complete, a bank voucher will be issued for fee payment.
5. Fee Payment For Passport
After your documents are verified, the next step is to pay the passport fee. Here, you’ll find the fee structure for different MRP options and instructions on where to make the payment.
Passport Fee Structure:
- New (Normal): 5 Years £30/10 Years £45
- New (Urgent): 5 Years £50/10 Years £75
Deposit the fee at the bank counter located at the High Commission or Consulate, and keep the payment receipt as proof.
Important Note: Children under 15 are only eligible for a 5-year passport. (Prices may have been updated since this guide was produced.)
6. Token Issue & Biometrics Data
Once the fee is paid, the next step is to complete your biometric data capture. Learn how token issuance, digital photographs, and fingerprinting work during this stage.
- Token Issuance: Wait for your token number to be called.
- Biometric Data Capture: Digital Photograph and fingerprint scanning will be done at Counter 1.
- Data Entry: Proceed to Counter 2, where your details will be entered according to NADRA records.
- Verification and Interview: An MRP Officer will verify your details and conduct a brief interview.
- Answer any questions and clarify any discrepancies.
7. Collection Date & Passport Issue
After completing the biometric data capture, a collection date for your passport will be provided. This part explains the typical processing times and how collection dates are assigned.
- Normal Processing: Approximately 4-6 weeks
- Urgent Processing: Approximately 2-3 weeks
For first-time applicants or those without previous passports, the application may take longer due to security verifications.
8. Passport Collection
The final step is collecting your new passport. Whether you choose to pick it up in person or use postal delivery, this section covers the options and what to keep in mind.
- Collect your passport from the designated MRP Office between 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday to Friday (except public holidays).
- If you are collecting on behalf of family members, you must show proof of relation (parents, siblings, or adult children).
Postal Delivery Option:
- You can request postal delivery at the MRP desk. Postal charges will apply.
- Note: The High Commission will not be responsible for any loss during transit. This responsibility lies with the applicant and Royal Mail.
Important: Passports not collected within a month after the collection date will be destroyed as per the consulate’s policy.
9. After Collecting Your Passport
Once you receive your passport, there’s one final step to validate it. Make sure to sign or affix the correct thumb impression in the required space to complete the process, this is normally on page 2.
- Adults: Signature or thumb impression
- Female (Child): Right Thumb Impression
- Male (Child): Left Thumb Impression
10. Special Cases
Some applicants, such as those who have lost their passports or hold dual nationality, have additional requirements. This section provides guidance on these unique scenarios to ensure a smooth process.
- Asylum Cases: Applicants who have filed asylum cases against Pakistan will undergo strict scrutiny. The High Commission may refuse issuance if the applicant is deemed a security risk.
- Lost Passports: Report the loss with a Police Report (Additional fees will apply as a penalty.)
- Dual Nationals: Dual nationals applying for the first time without an existing Pakistani passport will require security verification.
11. Consulate Contact Details
For any queries or assistance, you can reach out to the relevant High Commission or Consulate office using the contact details provided below.
This ensures that you have access to the right support throughout your application process.
- London: 02076649200
- Manchester: 0161 225 1786
- Birmingham: 0121 643 4080Â
- Bradford: 0127 430 8062Â
- Glasgow: 0141 427 5755
TBC
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