Pakistani passport application status can be tracked on the DGIP portal using the CNIC and application reference, or by sending the CNIC to 9000 via SMS — status updates move through Applied, Under Process, Printed, and Ready for Collection.

4 Steps to Track Your Passport Application

Enter application reference at dgip.gov.pk, or send your CNIC to 9000 by SMS — track from Biometric Captured through Printed to Ready for Collection; collect at office with CNIC and receipt.

Step 1

Use the DGIP Online Tracking System

Go to dgip.gov.pk and find the "Track Application" section on the homepage. Enter your application reference number (from your DGIP portal account or your appointment receipt) and your CNIC number. Click Track. Your current processing stage and an estimated ready date appear.

Tracking stages: Application Submitted → Biometric Captured → Under Processing → Printed → Ready for Collection / Dispatched for Delivery → Delivered.

Step 2

Track via SMS

Send your CNIC number to 9000 by SMS. The reply shows your passport application status. This is useful when you don't have internet access — works from any Pakistani mobile network.

Some DGIP offices also send automatic SMS updates to your registered mobile number when your passport moves through key stages — ensure the mobile number in your DGIP account is active.

Step 3

Check at Your Passport Office

If online and SMS tracking don't provide a clear update after the expected processing period, visit your designated passport office during working hours. Bring your CNIC and application reference number. The counter officer can check the full internal system status, including whether there's a hold, a document query, or an address issue with home delivery.

Call the DGIP helpline at 051-9205736 before visiting — they can resolve most status queries by phone and save you a trip.

Step 4

Act When Your Passport Is Ready

When tracking shows "Ready for Collection": go to your designated passport office with your CNIC and original appointment receipt. Collection counters are typically faster than application counters — you should be done in 10–15 minutes.

For home delivery via TCS: you should receive a courier notification SMS. If the delivery is missed (you weren't home), the courier holds it for 3–5 days before returning it to the passport office — contact TCS with the tracking number to arrange redelivery or collection at the TCS branch.

Passport Application Problems

Status stuck at 'Under Processing' for 6 weeks on normal application

Normal processing should complete within 30 days. 6 weeks suggests a hold — call DGIP at 051-9205736. Common holds: name discrepancy with NADRA records, address verification pending, or a data quality issue.

Home delivery missed and courier returned passport to office

Visit the passport office with your CNIC and delivery receipt. The returned passport is held at the office for 30–60 days. After that it may be archived — act promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Normal: 15–30 working days. Urgent: 7 working days. Executive: 3 working days. Times can extend during high-demand periods like pre-Hajj season (April–May) or post-Eid rushes.

The DGIP portal requires login credentials to view full application details. However, the SMS tracking (CNIC to 9000) returns basic status without requiring the portal password.