ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Sunday that the government has introduced significant visa reforms aimed at facilitating foreign investors, business communities, and tourists. The initiative is expected to enhance tourism, boost foreign investment, and stimulate trade activities in Pakistan.
In a statement, PM Shehbaz Sharif described the reforms as a highly positive development, noting that the government had approved visa-free entry for businessmen from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This move is anticipated to increase investment and business opportunities in these nations.
The new policy will enable businessmen, investors, and tourists from 126 countries to receive visas within 24 hours through an online system. Additionally, traders and tourists from these countries will be exempt from visa fees. These changes aim to make Pakistan an attractive destination for business and tourism.
The prime minister also highlighted special arrangements for Sikh pilgrims with third-country passports, allowing them to obtain visas on arrival. To further facilitate travelers, electronic gates will be installed at Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports.
A dedicated dashboard will be established at the Ministry of Interior to monitor the implementation of the new visa regime, which includes visa-free entry, business visa lists, and tourist visas on arrival.
PM Shehbaz commended the Ministry of Interior and other relevant ministries and institutions for their efforts in implementing the new visa regime. The reforms were approved by the federal cabinet on July 24, allowing digital visas for citizens of 126 countries and enabling visa-free entry for business and tourism purposes.
The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, also approved the establishment of special courts under the SECP Act 1997, the signing of an MoU between Pakistan and Denmark, and an increase in the number of members of the Privatization Commission Board.
During the cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring ease of business in the country. He mentioned a recent meeting among various ministries where they agreed on a liberal visa regime to promote investment and tourism, including religious tourism. This visa regime will be presented to the cabinet for approval.
These visa reforms reflect the government’s proactive approach to attracting foreign investment and promoting Pakistan as a prime destination for business and tourism.
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