The Government of Pakistan has approved blue passports for 42 top taxpayers in recognition of their significant contribution to the national economy. These taxpayers have been designated as “Ambassadors-at-Large” on the special directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Blue passports are normally issued to high-ranking government officials and diplomats. Granting them to private citizens is a special honour meant to appreciate those who pay the highest taxes in the country. According to DG Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa, most of these passports have already been issued.
The government is also considering issuing special-coloured passports to other high-paying businessmen. This proposal is currently under review in consultation with the Ministry of Commerce and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
In addition to this, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) is introducing major reforms to improve passport services. These include home delivery of passports, chatbot assistance, online application submission, and fully cashless fee payments. The aim is to reduce the role of agents and make the process easier and more transparent for ordinary citizens.
These steps are part of a broader effort to digitalize passport services and recognise the important role of top taxpayers in Pakistan’s economic development.
