Pakistan: Fast-track immigration, e-gates planned at major airports

Dubai: Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday unveiled a wide-ranging plan to modernise Pakistan’s immigration system, including the establishment of fast-track passport control counters and the installation of biometric e-gates at the country’s major international airports.

The announcement was made during a high-level meeting at the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Headquarters in Islamabad, where the minister also paid tribute to the martyrs of the agency by laying a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ monument.

Fast-track immigration

As part of immediate passenger facilitation measures, Naqvi ordered the launch of fast-track immigration counters to ease congestion and improve service at airports. These will provide expedited clearance for priority passengers, such as overseas Pakistanis, families, and frequent flyers.

In addition, Pakistan is advancing a major technology initiative to install automated e-gates, self-service immigration booths equipped with biometric verification at Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi airports. These will allow travellers with e-passports to clear immigration without manual checks. The project, led by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) with technical support from Germany’s M2P Consulting, is expected to be completed soon.

Reduce waiting time

The planned e-gates will bring Pakistan’s immigration process in line with global standards, reduce wait times, and enhance security through biometric verification. Once deployed, the system will benefit both Pakistani citizens and international travellers, especially those holding ICAO-compliant e-passports.

Crackdown on visa fraud networks

During the meeting, Interior Minister Naqvi issued a strong warning to criminal syndicates involved in illegal immigration and visa fraud. He directed the FIA to launch a ruthless and uncompromising crackdown against mafias that exploit vulnerable citizens through false travel promises and forged documents, according to APP, official news agency of Pakistan.

“There will be zero tolerance for those who tarnish the country’s image by facilitating illegal migration,” Naqvi said, adding that the FIA must not only enforce the law, but also restore public trust in legal migration and visa processes.

He asserted that the fight against such mafias is a national priority and ordered FIA field offices to take immediate, coordinated action.

FIA reforms announced

In line with the government’s broader reform agenda, the minister approved a complete restructuring of the FIA to make it more responsive, technology-driven, and performance-oriented. Naqvi stressed that only those who deliver measurable results will be rewarded. “We are building a results-driven institution that protects the national interest and serves the people,” he said.

FIA Director General Raja Riffat Mukhtar briefed the minister on progress in ongoing reforms. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also attended the meeting.

Key decisions included

Immediate provision of modern equipment and weaponry to field units

Filling of all sanctioned vacant posts through fast-track recruitment

Introduction of a performance-based incentive system for FIA personnel

Preparation of a master plan for the renovation of FIA Headquarters

Early relocation of the FIA Academy to newly allocated land

Restoration of the Karachi Zonal Office to full functionality