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7 Essential Services And Key Updates At The Consulate General Of Pakistan In Chicago, IL

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The Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago, IL, serves as a crucial diplomatic hub, connecting the Pakistani diaspora and fostering bilateral relations across the US Midwest. As of Thursday, December 18, 2025, the mission continues its critical work from its downtown Chicago location, offering a comprehensive suite of consular services ranging from passport and visa processing to document attestation. This article provides the most current and essential details for anyone seeking assistance or information, ensuring you have the latest procedural and contact information before your visit.

Operating under the leadership of the Consul General, the Consulate is the primary point of contact for Pakistani citizens residing in its jurisdiction, which includes a wide array of states across the American heartland. Beyond routine services, the mission actively promotes trade, cultural exchange, and community engagement, organizing key events and facilitating business conferences to strengthen the Pakistan-U.S. partnership in Illinois and beyond. Understanding the current operational procedures, particularly the "by appointment only" policy, is vital for a seamless experience.

Meet the Current Consul General: A Profile of Leadership

The effectiveness of any diplomatic mission is often defined by its leadership, and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago is currently headed by a seasoned professional. The Consul General plays a pivotal role in managing consular affairs, promoting bilateral trade, and engaging with the Pakistani-American community.

Mr. Tariq Karim: Consul General of Pakistan in Chicago

Mr. Tariq Karim is the current Consul General, having assumed his responsibilities in Chicago on May 16, 2021. His appointment marked the beginning of a new chapter for the mission, bringing extensive diplomatic experience to the position. Mr. Karim is a senior career diplomat within Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a background that provides him with a deep understanding of international relations and consular management.

His tenure has been characterized by a focus on strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and the U.S. Midwest. Under his leadership, the Consulate has facilitated high-level engagements, including a notable meeting with the President of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and the organization of the Pakistan-U.S. Business Conference in Illinois. These initiatives underscore the mission's commitment to promoting trade and investment opportunities. Furthermore, Mr. Karim actively participates in community and cultural events, such as hosting an Eid Open House and observing important national days like Kashmir Black Day, ensuring the Consulate remains a central part of the diaspora's life.

Comprehensive Consular Services: Your Guide to Key Applications

The Consulate General in Chicago offers a critical array of services designed to meet the administrative and legal needs of Pakistani citizens and foreign nationals within its jurisdiction. It is crucial to note that the Consulate operates on an appointment-only basis for most in-person services, a measure intended to streamline operations and reduce wait times.

The primary services available at the 333 North Michigan Avenue location are extensive and cover the most common requirements for the Pakistani diaspora:

1. Passport Services (Machine Readable Passport - MRP)

The Consulate facilitates the renewal of Machine Readable Passports (MRPs). This is a vital service for Pakistani citizens whose passports are expiring or have run out of pages. The application process is typically handled through an online system, but the final biometric capture and interview often require a scheduled in-person visit to the Chicago office. Applicants must ensure they use express mail for sending documents to prevent loss, as the Consulate is not responsible for documents sent via ordinary mail.

2. National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)

NICOP is an essential document for Overseas Pakistanis, serving as a primary form of identification. The Consulate assists with new applications, renewals, and modifications of NICOPs, which are processed through the NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) online portal. While the process is predominantly digital, the Consulate can provide guidance and, in some cases, facilitate the necessary steps.

3. Visa Services

For foreign nationals, the Consulate is the authority for processing various categories of visas for travel to Pakistan. This includes tourist, business, and family visit visas. The application process begins with the online application form, followed by gathering all required supporting documents and scheduling an appointment for submission.

4. Attestation of Documents

A frequently used service is the attestation of legal and educational documents. This includes verifying the authenticity of powers of attorney, marriage certificates, and other documents originating in Pakistan or the US that need to be legally recognized by the Pakistani government. This service is crucial for legal matters, property transactions, and official record-keeping back home.

5. Child Registration Certificate (CRC) / Birth Certificate

For children born to Pakistani parents abroad, the Consulate processes the application for a Child Registration Certificate (CRC), which is a prerequisite for obtaining a Pakistani passport. This service is critical for establishing the child's Pakistani nationality and is often done in conjunction with NADRA services.

6. Renunciation of Pakistani Nationality

The Consulate handles the formal application process for individuals seeking to renounce their Pakistani citizenship, usually for the purpose of acquiring the citizenship of another country. This process is complex and requires meticulous documentation, making the Consulate's guidance invaluable.

7. Other Consular Assistance

Beyond the core services, the Consulate also offers support for various community needs, including emergency assistance, guidance on legal matters, and facilitating cultural and educational exchanges. Their role extends to being a resource center for the Pakistani-American community in the Midwest.

Contact Information and Appointment Procedures for Your Visit

Before planning a visit to the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago, it is imperative to confirm the current contact details, operating hours, and, most importantly, the appointment procedure. The mission is centrally located, making it accessible but also subject to downtown Chicago's demanding environment.

Official Contact and Location Details

The Consulate General of Pakistan is located in a prominent building in the heart of Chicago, easily accessible to visitors from Illinois and surrounding states.

  • Official Address: 333 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 728, Chicago, IL 60601
  • Primary Phone Number: +1 872-270-6499
  • Fax: 312-781-1839
  • General Email: info@cgpkchicago.org
  • Commercial/Cultural Inquiries: cacomsec@cgpkchicago.org

Operating Hours and The Appointment Mandate

Consular services are typically offered on weekdays. While the general office hours may be longer, the specific Consular Service Hours for public interaction are generally from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and then again from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Crucially, all visitors are strongly requested to secure an appointment prior to their visit. The official website emphasizes that services are rendered "by appointment only." This system is in place to manage the flow of visitors efficiently and ensure that each applicant receives the necessary time and attention. Appointments for services like passport renewal and visa applications are typically scheduled online through the relevant official government portals (NADRA, Passport Directorate, or the Visa portal), which then direct the applicant to select a date and time at the Chicago Consulate.

Tips for a Successful Consular Visit

To avoid delays and ensure your application is processed smoothly, keep the following in mind:

  • Confirm Jurisdiction: Ensure you reside within the Chicago Consulate's jurisdiction, which covers the Midwest region, before applying.
  • Prepare Documents: All required documents, including photocopies and original IDs, must be prepared before your appointment.
  • Bring ID: You must carry a valid form of ID to be allowed entry for your appointment.
  • Call During Optimal Hours: The best time to call the Consulate for inquiries is often between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays.
7 Essential Services and Key Updates at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago, IL
pakistan embassy chicago il
pakistan embassy chicago il

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