HP Newsroom
Pakistan, on August 14, 2024, unveiled a groundbreaking visa policy designed to redefine its tourism landscape for the world. This new initiative will allow travelers from 126 countries to experience Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty without the barrier of visa fees. By eliminating e-visa charges and streamlining the application process, Pakistan is positioning itself as a premier global destination for tourism and investment.
This innovative policy is set to transform the travel experience for visitors from eligible countries. With the elimination of visa fees, travelers can now enjoy a hassle-free journey to Pakistan, receiving their e-Visas within just 24 hours of applying online. This significant reduction in processing time and cost represents a major leap forward in making Pakistan more accessible and inviting to tourists from around the world.
The new visa policy also simplifies the application process through a revamped online form, now reduced to 30 questions from the previous nearly 100. This user-friendly approach is expected to minimize delays and hitches, making it easier than ever for travelers to obtain their visas and explore Pakistan’s diverse offerings.
In addition to these changes, citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar—will benefit from an even more streamlined process. They will be able to obtain a visa upon arrival by simply presenting their passport, further easing entry into the country.
This policy overhaul is a strategic move to boost Pakistan’s tourism industry and enhance its global appeal. By removing financial barriers and simplifying the visa process, Pakistan is inviting the world to discover its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic sites. This initiative not only facilitates greater tourism but also reflects Pakistan’s commitment to developing international connections and showcasing its unique attractions.
The list of 126 countries benefiting from this new visa policy includes a diverse range of nations from across continents, highlighting Pakistan’s intent to engage with a broad international audience. Here’s a comprehensive list of the countries and territories eligible for the new free visa policy:
Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Croatia, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Djibouti, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
The current government’s decision to redefine Pakistan’s visa policy deserves applause for its forward-thinking approach and commitment to revitalizing the nation’s tourism sector. By eliminating visa fees and streamlining the application process, the administration has demonstrated a keen understanding of the critical role that ease of access plays in attracting international visitors. This progressive move not only removes financial and bureaucratic barriers but also reflects a broader vision of enhancing Pakistan’s global appeal and gaining economic growth through tourism. The government’s proactive stance in making Pakistan more accessible and welcoming proves its dedication to showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, setting a new standard for international engagement and tourism development.
By opening its doors wider and making travel more accessible, Pakistan is not just promoting its tourism sector but also forging stronger international bonds. This policy reflects the country’s dedication to enhancing its global presence and celebrating its unique cultural and natural assets. As Pakistan embraces this new era of openness, it invites the world to explore and experience the beauty and richness it has to offer.
