How to Replace Lost or Damaged Pakistan Passport

Quick Answer

File an FIR (First Information Report) at your nearest police station immediately. Then visit a passport office with the FIR copy, your CNIC, 2 photographs, and the fee receipt. Replacement passports undergo additional security verification and take 30-45 days (normal processing) — longer than standard renewals.

Immediate Steps After Losing Your Passport

A lost or stolen passport is a security concern — it can be used for identity fraud, illegal immigration, or other criminal activity. The FIR creates a legal record that protects you from liability. DGIP takes lost passport cases seriously: replacement processing includes enhanced background verification, which is why it takes longer than a standard renewal.

For standard renewal (passport in hand): online renewal guide. Lost your CNIC too? See duplicate CNIC process — get that first since you need CNIC for passport replacement.

Processing Timeline for Replacement Passports

The process for this passport service follows DGIP's standard workflow. Visit the DGIP portal or your nearest passport office to initiate. Always verify current requirements on the official DGIP website as procedures can change.

Verify current fees and timelines. DGIP updates passport fees and processing times periodically. The figures in this guide are based on the latest available information — always confirm on the DGIP portal or Passport Asaan App before paying.

Protecting Yourself After Passport Loss

Not filing an FIR — without a police report, DGIP won't process a replacement. The FIR is non-negotiable.
Filing a delayed FIR — report the loss immediately. A delayed FIR (weeks or months after losing the passport) raises red flags and can trigger additional investigation.
Trying to apply online — replacement for lost passports requires in-person application with FIR verification. Online renewal is only for passports you physically possess.
Not cancelling the old passport — DGIP cancels the lost passport in their system when you apply for replacement. If someone finds and tries to use it, immigration systems will flag it as cancelled.
Losing passport abroad without contacting the embassy — if lost overseas, contact the nearest Pakistan embassy immediately for an emergency travel document.

Lost Passport Replacement — Emergency Guide

What should I do if my passport is lost?

Immediately: file an FIR at the nearest police station. Then apply for a replacement at a passport office with the FIR copy, your CNIC, photographs, and fee. If lost abroad, contact the Pakistan embassy first.

How long does a replacement passport take?

30-45 days for normal processing — longer than standard renewals due to enhanced security verification. Urgent and fast track options may be available but still take longer than standard renewals.

Is the replacement passport different from a regular one?

No. The physical passport is identical. However, it gets a new passport number (the old number is cancelled), and the issuance record notes it as a replacement — which some countries may question during visa processing.

What if I lose my passport abroad?

Contact the nearest Pakistan embassy or consulate immediately. They issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) for your return to Pakistan. Once back, apply for a full replacement passport through the normal DGIP process.

Do I need to file an FIR for a damaged passport?

For damaged passports (not lost), an FIR is usually not required — bring the damaged passport to the office instead. FIR is mandatory only for lost or stolen passports where the physical document cannot be produced.