Pakistan Increases Passport Fees in Budget 2025-26

The federal government has significantly increased its non-tax revenue target for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26, aiming to boost income and meet growing expenditures.

Key Budgetary Changes

• Non-tax revenue target raised from Rs4,902 billion (FY2024-25) to Rs5,147 billion (FY2025-26)
• FBR tax revenue target increased to Rs14,131 billion, up from Rs11,900 billion in the outgoing fiscal year
• Passport and citizenship fee target hiked to Rs76,500 million, compared to Rs75,000 million last year

Passport Fee Target Increased – But No Immediate Hike Announced

The Directorate General of Immigration & Passport has been given a higher revenue collection target, though no immediate increase in passport fees has been officially announced. This suggests that either higher application volumes or future fee adjustments may be planned to meet the Rs76.5 billion goal.

Budget 2025-26 Overview

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb presented the Rs17,573 billion budget in the National Assembly on June 10, outlining a strategy for sustainable economic growth. Key highlights include:

• Economic growth target: 4.2%
• Inflation projection: 7.5%
• Budget deficit: 3.9% of GDP
• Primary surplus: 2.4% of GDP

Revenue & Expenditure Breakdown

• Net revenue receipts: Estimated at Rs11,072 billion
• FBR tax collection target: Rs14,131 billion (an 18.7% increase)
• Provincial share in federal revenue: Rs8,206 billion

Economic Strategy

Aurangzeb emphasized that the budget is designed to:

• Boost exports & foreign reserves
• Reduce payment imbalances
• Enhance economic productivity
• Drive structural reforms

What This Means for Citizens

While the passport fee target has increased, no immediate price hike has been confirmed. However, the government’s push for higher revenue collection could lead to adjusted fees or stricter enforcement in the coming months.

The budget reflects the government’s focus on fiscal discipline and economic stabilization, though its impact on public services and fees remains to be seen.