Govt starts offering free visa to 126 countries

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has introduced a free visa policy for 126 countries to mark Pakistan’s 77th Indepdence Day.

According to details, the authorities concerned have ended visa fee for 126 countries in a bid to bolster trade and economic ties.

With the announcement of new visa policy, Gulf country nationals can get a visa upon arrival. Visitors from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar along with full list need to fill out a one-page form and will get 3-month renewable visa.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Atta Tarar said the new visa policy aims to fulfill government’s goal of boosting international tourism.

The decision to offer free-of-cost visa to 126 countries was previously discussed during a meeting of the federal cabinet.

The meeting discussed the possibility of easing visa arrangements for tourists through the introduction of a electronic travel authorisation form. The premiere said this form would enable tourists from designated countries to get their visas within 24 hours.

“The deficiency of the visa fees would be made up by foreign exchange earned through investment and tourism, including religious tourism for which Pakistan has immense potential”, the prime minister said. He further stated that the decision to abolish visa fee for 126 countries would be tabled before the federal cabinet for approval.