Significant Visa Applications for Pakistan after new policy (NADRA)

Significant Visa Applications for Pakistan after New Policy (NADRA)

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has reported a significant increase in online visa applications following the introduction of a new, more relaxed visa policy by the Pakistani government. This policy change aims to boost tourism in the country, which is expected to help alleviate the current economic crunch.

Key Statistics

According to NADRA, over 89,000 applications have been received since the policy change, with 39,966 applications being accepted and 3,966 rejected. Approximately 24,000 visas have been issued for tourism purposes, while the remaining have been issued for business, religious activities, mountain climbing, and other categories. Around 2,000 applications are currently under processing.

NADRA has also reported that 24,878 applications were specifically for tourism visas, highlighting the growing interest in visiting Pakistan. The online E-Visa system has been particularly popular, with 89,878 applications received in the last six months.

Visa Policy Changes

The Pakistani government has introduced a more relaxed visa policy for 175 countries, allowing for visas to be issued upon arrival at the airport for 50 countries and offering business visas for 96 countries. This move is part of a broader effort to promote tourism and stimulate economic growth.

A pilot project has been launched for China, Canada, Malaysia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, with plans to expand the service to 175 countries. The government hopes that this will attract more foreign visitors and investors, thereby boosting the economy.