In a recent development, the Pakistani passport department has encountered a shortage of lamination papers crucial for the production of new passports. This unfortunate situation has led to significant delays in the processing of passport applications, delivering unwelcome news to individuals in need of travel documents for various purposes, such as those planning trips abroad for Umrah, medical treatment, or education.

According to reliable sources, it appears that the relevant authorities failed to take timely action to ensure a sufficient and uninterrupted supply of lamination paper. Despite this issue being brought to their attention, no noticeable improvements in the supply chain were observed last week, raising concerns that the printing and distribution of new passports could be negatively impacted nationwide.

This shortage of lamination paper is anticipated to prolong the duration of passport deliveries, with the processing time for passports obtained at the regular fee likely extending to around one month. These delays are expected to pose significant challenges for applicants throughout the country, particularly those with urgent travel needs related to Umrah, medical treatment, or educational pursuits.

Remarkably, new passport applications continue to be accepted despite the alleged lamination paper shortage. There is a growing fear that the number of pending passport applications will surge due to printing difficulties and delivery delays.

As of now, the passport department has yet to release an official statement addressing this pressing issue. The timeline for resolving the lamination paper shortage and the anticipated duration of these delays remains uncertain. To stay updated on the situation, applicants are strongly encouraged to regularly visit the passport department’s website for any forthcoming announcements.