Passport Status & Tracking
What Do Pakistan Passport Status Messages Mean?
Written by M. Junaid Masood · Updated 9 October 2026
passportstatus.pk is an independent guide, not affiliated with the Government of Pakistan, DGIP or NADRA. We can't see or change your application. Always confirm with dgip.gov.pk.
The three phases behind every status message
At the passport office
Token, fingerprints, data entry, ECL/Black List check and the Assistant Director's decision. Most delays start here.
In production
Once the fee is paid through the token's QR code, the case goes to production for printing. DGIP then dispatches the passport to your office or mission.
Ready
The passport has reached your Regional Passport Office or mission, or is out for home delivery. Collect it with your original token on the given date.
Situations DGIP describes, and what they mean for you
| What's happening | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Case deferred for additional documents | The Assistant Director needs more paperwork before "go ahead" | Submit the requested documents at the office |
| Minor's case deferred | Applicants under 18 need their data form attested by a government gazetted officer | Get the form attested and return it; the deferred token is then allowed |
| Referred to a security agency | National status is being verified | Wait; DGIP says the applicant is informed by telephone once the clearance report arrives |
| Stopped at ECL / Black List check | The applicant is on the Exit Control List or Black List | Processing stays stopped until removal from the list; see our blacklist guide |
| Dispatched | The passport has left the production facility | Allow shipping time to your office or mission before visiting |
DGIP's issue times are 21 working days for Normal, 5 for Urgent and 2 for Fast Track. If you're well past yours, call 051-111-344-777 with your token number. Deferrals and security referrals are the most common reasons for a long wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. DGIP notes that dispatched passports still need shipping time to reach your Regional Passport Office or Foreign Mission. Wait for the ready message or the collection date.
No. A deferral means the Assistant Director needs something more, usually documents or a minor's attested form. The case continues once it's provided.
SMS 9988 for applicants inside Pakistan and Email Rabta for overseas applicants, sent to the contact details given at data entry. See how 9988 alerts work.
Sources
Official sources checked 9 October 2026.