AI-based immigration system to be launch in January, says Interior Minister Naqvi

Islamabad (Web Desk): Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has revealed that Pakistan will introduce an AI-driven immigration system early next year, with its pilot phase set to begin in Islamabad in January.

The announcement came during a special high-level meeting he chaired alongside Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, where officials agreed to ramp up action against travelers attempting to leave the country on forged or dubious documents.

During the meeting, the government endorsed new measures to make the protector issuance system completely secure and finalized a series of immigration reforms aimed at making travel procedures easier and more reliable for citizens.

Both ministers instructed all concerned departments to submit their final suggestions within seven days, while also ordering a strict clampdown on people and networks running the fake visa trade.

Naqvi said the upcoming AI-based mobile application will help authorities determine beforehand whether a person is eligible to travel, allowing early detection of potential violations.

He explained that once the passports of deported individuals are cancelled, the government will ensure they cannot obtain fresh visas.

The interior minister also confirmed that the National Police Bureau will now issue a unified international driving licence.

He stressed that the government will employ a zero-tolerance approach against forged visas and the agents who enable them.

Naqvi added that Pakistan is actively engaging with other nations to improve the international ranking of its passport, noting that illegal actions by individuals abroad harm the country’s reputation.

According to him, the broader purpose of the new immigration framework is to ease procedures for citizens while uplifting Pakistan’s global image.

Federal Minister Salik Hussain underscored the urgent need for a transparent protector system and emphasized that those travelling on labour visas must carry valid, authentic documents.

He assured that the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis would work closely with the Interior Ministry to refine the protector and immigration processes.

The meeting also reviewed ongoing efforts against illegal migrants and those travelling with incomplete paperwork.

Officials held in-depth discussions on e-driving licenses, protector stamps, and various immigration-related issues.

Senior representatives from all relevant departments attended the meeting including the Interior Secretary, Special Secretary, Secretary Overseas Pakistanis, Chairman NADRA, senior FIA officials, the DG Passport & Immigration, and other concerned authorities.