Authorities have extended the deadline for implementation of the NADRA-linked vaccination card requirement for outbound passengers until Sept 25, 2026, sources in Border Health Services said.
An official notification regarding the extension is expected to be issued shortly.
The move is expected to provide relief to passengers, particularly Umrah pilgrims, hundreds of whom had gathered at airport health offices to obtain vaccination cards linked with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
Authorities had earlier announced that passengers would not be allowed to travel abroad without NADRA-linked proof of vaccination after Sept 14.
The development comes amid concerns raised by the Travel Agents Association of Pakistan (TAAP) over the implementation of the requirement.
In a letter to the federal government, the association sought clarification from the health ministry and raised objections to directives issued by the Karachi Airport Health Officer.
TAAP said the directives lacked clarity and had created confusion over whether the vaccination card requirement applied only to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims or to all passengers travelling abroad.
The association also questioned the vaccination process, saying travellers should receive required vaccines six to seven days before departure. It expressed concern over administering four vaccines at the same time, citing possible health implications for passengers.
TAAP further claimed that some of the vaccines recommended by the government were not readily available in the market and urged the authorities to ensure adequate supplies and establish sufficient vaccination centres.
The association had warned that enforcing the requirement from Sept 14 could cause difficulties for pilgrims and other outbound travellers.
It also called for standard operating procedures for the NADRA-linked vaccination card to be formulated in consultation with all relevant stakeholders.
