ISLAMABAD: The Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that the government has approved visa-free entry for businessmen from Gulf countries to promote foreign investment, business activities, and tourism in Pakistan.
In a statement today, he said that online visas will be issue within 24 hours to businessmen, investors, and tourists from 126 countries. Additionally, he stated that businessmen and tourists from these 126 countries will be exempt from visa fees.
The Prime Minister explained that relaxing the visa regime will help make Pakistan an attractive destination for investment and tourism. He added that a sub-category under the visa-on-arrival facility has been approve for Sikh Yatrees holding passports from third countries, aimed at promoting religious tourism.
Shehbaz Sharif also announced that an E-system of electronic gates is being implement at Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore airports. He emphasized that the relaxation of the visa policy will contribute to economic stability and enhanced foreign exchange reserves.
The Prime Minister noted that Pakistan’s sacred places and northern areas, including Gilgit-Baltistan, are consider a paradise for tourists.
He stated that a dashboard will be establish at the Ministry of Interior to oversee the implementation of the new visa regime.