Islamabad: In an effort to bring about a boost in the tourism sector, Pakistan has announced to introduce on-arrival visas for 50 countries and e-visas for 175 countries. Talking to the media, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry shed light on some of the salient features of the new visa regime that he said have been formulated in consultations with all the concerned departments.
Apart from granting on-arrival visas and e-visas for various countries, other eminent features of the visa regime entail the provision of Business visa of 68 to 96 countries along with IATA approved tour operators to be allowed to bring tourist groups to Pakistan.
In addition, cross-border travel is to be non-restricted and foreigners are to be allowed to travel within open cantonment areas freely.
Following are some of other provisions announced under the new visa regime:
Work visa: Pakistan Missions to issue visas on recommendation of BOI
Family visit: 5 years multiple entry visa in 7-10 working days
Pakistan Missions to grant 5 years validity and one year stay (multiple) entry visa to foreigners of Pakistani origin and their spouses
Diplomatic visa: Tenure of diplomatic/official assignment
Tablighi visa: 45 days
Missionary visa: 1 year
Student visa: 2 years
House Aide visa