The government has allowed married women to retain their father’s name on their passports in a landmark decision aimed at strengthening women’s identity and autonomy.
The reform was officially announced by the director general of Immigration and Passports, marking a significant shift in Pakistan’s passport policy.
According to officials, the passport format has been amended in compliance with orders issued by the Lahore High Court. The change ensures that married women are no longer required to replace their father’s name with their husband’s name on official travel documents.
CNIC, father’s name can remain unchanged
Under the new policy, women will now be allowed to retain their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) details, including their father’s name, on their passports.
This move aligns passport records with CNIC data and removes the need for mandatory post-marriage name changes.
Authorities confirmed that the necessary software updates in the passport system have been completed under the guidance of the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Law.
The changes were implemented on the instructions of DG Immigration and Passports Mustafa Jamal Qazi to ensure smooth execution of the reform.
Step toward strengthening women’s identity
Officials said the reforms will strengthen women’s identity, dignity, and autonomy by giving them the choice to retain their paternal identity in official documents.
