Passport Control List: IHC strikes down rule used to stop travellers at airports

The Islamabad High Court has declared Rule 22(2)(b) of the Passport Rules, 2021 unconstitutional, removing the provision that let authorities put citizens on the Passport Control List (PCL) without notice, a hearing or a named decision-maker, Dawn reported on 27 September 2026. Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas held that the rule violates Articles 4, 9, 10A and 15 of the Constitution, which protect due process, liberty, a fair trial and freedom of movement.

The case

The petitioner, Moinuddin, was offloaded at Islamabad International Airport on 18 December 2025 while travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, despite holding a valid passport and Saudi visa. He had been placed on the PCL on 24 December 2024 after being deported from the UK, where he served a three-year sentence. No criminal case was pending against him in Pakistan.

The court found that the rule:

• named no competent authority to decide who goes on the list,
• set no objective criteria for placement,
• gave citizens no notice or hearing, so many learned of the ban only at the immigration counter,
• relied on grounds such as "reputation" and "deterrence" that have no basis in law.

What the court ordered

1. The agency order of 26 January 2026 against the petitioner is set aside.
2. His PCL placement is unlawful and of no legal effect.
3. His name must be removed within 15 days.
4. Authorities must not interfere with his lawful foreign travel.
5. His passport application must be decided within one week.

What it means if you were stopped

The ruling is on one petition, but the provision itself is gone. If you were placed on the PCL under Rule 22(2)(b) without notice, you can cite this judgment in a representation to the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports or in a petition to the High Court. Keep your offloading record, your passport application receipt and any letter you received.

The court did not bar travel restrictions altogether. The government can still stop someone from travelling through a lawful procedure: a named authority, notice with reasons, and a real, immediate need. The Exit Control List (ECL), which works under a separate law, is not affected by this ruling.

Before you fly

If you are planning Umrah or work travel, check your passport status and fees in advance: see the passport fee calculator and NADRA fee calculator.