The Ministry of Interior has informed the Federal Cabinet that Indian and Afghan citizens will not be given visa-free entry under the program launched for businessmen from friendly countries.
According to a Business Recorder report, the Cabinet was informed on July 24, 2024, that in alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision of visa-free entry for businessmen and tourists from other countries, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in consultation with key stakeholders and the PM Office, has developed various proposals for visa reforms.
Previously, the Prime Minister had directed a further relaxation of the visa system to attract businessmen, investors, and tourists from friendly countries.
The Ministry has also taken several initiatives, including signing visa-free entry agreements with Nepal and the Maldives. Additionally, a ‘Visa on Arrival’ facility was available for 108 countries on the Business Visa List (BVL) and 64 countries on the Tourist List.
Businessmen traveling to Pakistan now need only to complete the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) form 24 hours before travel, after which the visa will be issued electronically.
Visas will now be issued through the electronic travel authorization form, which has reduced the required fields from 161 to 30 for basic information only, according to the Ministry.
