ISLAMABAD — Pakistan has revised its visa policy for foreign nationals, ending the facility of visas on arrival and prior-to-arrival approvals, according to officials in the Ministry of Interior.
Under the updated policy, foreign travelers will now be required to obtain Pakistani visas through the country’s embassies or diplomatic missions before entering Pakistan. Officials said the change was introduced in response to evolving regional security conditions and to strengthen the visa verification process.
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According to sources in the Ministry of Interior, the new procedure ensures that all visa applications undergo screening through Pakistan’s diplomatic channels abroad before approval.
Visas to be issued through embassies
Under the revised system, Pakistani embassies and diplomatic missions overseas will be responsible for issuing visas to foreign nationals. The ministry said this step is intended to improve oversight and verification of applicants.
Officials noted that diplomatic missions will now play a central role in reviewing applications and granting entry approvals.
Online application system remains active
Authorities said applicants can continue to submit visa requests through Pakistan’s existing online visa portal. However, once an application is filed online, it will be forwarded to the relevant Pakistani embassy or mission for further review.
A visa will only be issued after clearance from the concerned diplomatic mission, officials said.
The government said the updated process aims to ensure stricter scrutiny of visa applications and strengthen border security procedures.
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