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Pakistan has significantly eased travel restrictions by launching an online visa facility for citizens of 192 countries, alongside visa on arrival access for travelers from 120 countries, marking a major step toward promoting tourism, foreign investment, and global engagement.
The announcement was made by Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh while addressing the Sustainable Tourism Forum and Expo, organized by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) in collaboration with the Islamic Chamber of Commerce.
Under the new digital system, foreign nationals can now apply for Pakistani visas online without visiting embassies, making the process faster, simpler, and more transparent. The minister said the reform reflects the government’s commitment to opening Pakistan to the world and positioning it as a competitive global destination.
“These reforms will encourage international tourism and make it easier for foreign visitors to experience Pakistan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage,” Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh stated.
The online visa initiative builds on Pakistan’s broader economic and tourism reform agenda, introduced over recent years to improve ease of doing business and global mobility. Earlier visa relaxations for business investors, religious tourists, and overseas Pakistanis laid the groundwork for this expanded access.
Pakistan has increasingly focused on digital governance to reduce bureaucracy, attract foreign capital, and enhance international perception.
Highlighting recent economic progress, the minister pointed to rising industrial investment and strong stock market performance, emphasizing tourism as a key driver of employment, trade, and GDP growth. He also stressed the importance of sustainable tourism development to protect natural and cultural assets.
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh noted that tourism contributes around 10 percent of the global economy, adding that Pakistan’s diversity gives it a unique edge.
“Pakistan is one of the few countries that experience all four seasons and offers ancient civilizations like Mohenjo-daro along with a rich Sufi heritage,” he said.
With improved security conditions and expanding digital infrastructure, Pakistan aims to attract international tourists, business travelers, and investors, particularly in eco-tourism, heritage tourism, and adventure travel sectors. The visa reform is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s image as an open and welcoming destination.
