Pakistan moves police clearances and permits online

Pakistan has approved a uniform nationwide system to issue police clearance certificates and international driving permits, moving both services fully online through the National Police Bureau. The change is aimed at simplifying access for citizens, especially those planning to travel abroad.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision during a visit to the National Police Bureau in Islamabad on Tuesday, where he chaired a meeting on reforms and digital initiatives. According to Dawn, he said the new arrangement would make the police clearance certificate process faster and available from home through the NPB portal.

The move is part of a broader push to make the National Police Bureau a more active institution in public service delivery. Naqvi also instructed officials to develop a uniform system for international driving permits, saying the two online services would make matters easier for people leaving the country.

During the visit, the minister inspected renovation work at the bureau building and received a briefing from the director general on ongoing reforms. The meeting also began with tributes to police personnel who died in the line of duty, marking Youm-i-Police Shuhada.

For many citizens, the shift to a single online process could reduce the delays and paperwork long associated with these services. The government has not yet published further technical details in the feed, but the policy direction is clear: both police clearance certificates and international driving permits are being moved into a digital, centralized system.

Dawn reported that the interior minister described the reforms as part of efforts to modernize the bureau and improve convenience for the public.

FAQ

What has changed for police clearance certificates in Pakistan?

They will now be issued by the National Police Bureau through a fully online process.

Will international driving permits also be online?

Yes. The government has approved a uniform system for international driving permits as well.

Who announced the decision?

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced it during a visit to the National Police Bureau in Islamabad.