The Federal Investigation Agency warns against obtaining multiple passports by concealing information, emphasizing strict legal consequences for such actions.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a stern warning to citizens regarding the illegal acquisition or possession of more than one passport through concealment. According to an official statement, this practice is punishable under Pakistani law and can result in imprisonment and other forms of legal action.
Official sources individuals often attempt to obtain additional passports as a means to evade travel restrictions, including those related to deportation records, inclusion on the Exit Control List (ECL), or previous immigration violations. They some people may try to secure a second passport by concealing the existence of an already issued one under either their own identity or a different one.
Under Section 6(1)(j) of the Passports Act 1974, obtaining multiple ordinary passports through concealment is classified as a criminal offence. The penalty includes up to three years imprisonment and/or a fine. However, limited exceptions exist for individuals who possess an ordinary passport alongside an official or diplomatic one, provided they have proper authorization and complete records.
The FIA highlighted that those on the Exit Control List are strictly barred from obtaining another passport. With modern biometric systems and national databases now in place, attempts to misrepresent identity or obtain passports fraudulently can be easily detected. Furthermore, misuse of identity documents or fraudulent acquisition could lead to future refusal of passport issuance.
To prevent legal complications, officials advised citizens to immediately inform relevant authorities if their passport is lost, stolen, or damaged. They emphasized the importance of obtaining a new passport through the prescribed legal procedure rather than concealing facts to acquire another document.
