TLDR: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan is set to launch an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based application at Islamabad International Airport. This initiative, announced by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, aims to modernize immigration processes, significantly reduce passenger queues, and bolster efforts against human trafficking and smuggling. The minister emphasized the critical need for AI in modern border management and directed immediate funding for IT infrastructure upgrades and recruitment to support the agency’s reforms.
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan is poised to introduce a pioneering Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered application at Islamabad International Airport. This significant technological advancement is designed to revolutionize immigration procedures, enhance border security, and intensify the fight against human trafficking and smuggling networks. The pilot launch is scheduled to take place at the Islamabad International Airport, marking a crucial step in Pakistan’s modernization efforts.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, during a high-level meeting at the FIA Headquarters in Islamabad on August 22-23, 2025, underscored the urgency of adopting advanced technological solutions. “The use of artificial intelligence is the need of the hour,” stated Minister Naqvi, highlighting the dual benefits of protecting citizens and making international travel more convenient. He further added that the application “will ensure smooth travel for passengers and eliminate loopholes that criminals exploit.”
The new AI-based system is expected to streamline immigration processes by substantially reducing wait times at counters, thereby improving efficiency and passenger experience. Concurrently, it will strengthen the country’s capacity to detect and prevent trafficking attempts through advanced data analytics and real-time monitoring.
During the meeting, Minister Naqvi issued several directives to bolster the FIA’s operational capabilities. These include the immediate release of funds for upgrading the agency’s IT infrastructure, ordering the urgent renovation of the FIA Headquarters, and instructing the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to promptly hand over newly allotted land for the FIA Academy. Additionally, he called for expedited recruitment against all vacant posts to address existing manpower shortages within the agency.
FIA Director General Raja Riffat Mukhtar briefed the minister on the ongoing reforms, noting that amendments to the FIA Act have been completed. The agency has also transitioned to an e-office system, and all official notices will now be issued with QR codes to ensure greater transparency.
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This initiative is part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to combat human trafficking. In 2023, the FIA collaborated with the European Union and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) to establish a second-line border control office at Islamabad Airport, equipped with advanced forensic and IT tools. The introduction of the AI-based application represents another significant milestone in Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening border security, enhancing institutional capacity, and combating organized human smuggling.
