Pakistan Excludes India and Afghanistan from Visa-Free Entry Amid Security Concerns.
Islamabad – Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, confirmed that the government will not include India and Afghanistan in its list of countries whose citizens enjoy visa-free entry.
Despite some cabinet members advocating for easing or completely dropping visa requirements for Indians and Afghan nationals, the Ministry of Interior has firmly stated that these countries will remain excluded due to security concerns, according to VisaGuide.World.
While visa-free entry will not be granted, the Express Tribune reports that certain regulations will be relaxed for religious tourists, particularly Buddhists and Sikhs. Specific details of these relaxed rules have not been disclosed, but it is expected that these tourists will experience an expedited process with fewer visa rejections.
In an effort to boost tourism, Pakistan is also focusing on enhancing its international image to attract more visitors.
Pakistan Eases Visa Rules for Select Nationalities
Recently, Pakistan has implemented several changes to its visa policies for other nationalities. Last week, Pakistani authorities announced that, starting August 14, Chinese nationals will no longer have to pay a visa application fee. This move aims to promote tourism and strengthen diplomatic ties with China. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his intention to model Pakistan’s economy after China’s and anticipates significant progress soon.
Additionally, businesspeople from Gulf countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—are now permitted to enter Pakistan without a visa. This policy change is designed to attract more investment and create business opportunities in the country, as emphasized by Prime Minister Sharif.
By facilitating entry for these groups, Pakistan hopes to encourage economic growth and strengthen its position as a desirable destination for both tourists and investors.