In a historic move to boost international tourism and investment, Pakistan has announced that citizens of 120 countries can now avail Visa-on-Arrival, while citizens of 192 countries can apply for online visas under a newly launched digital system.
The announcement was made by Federal Minister for Investment Board, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, during the Sustainable Tourism Forum & Expo, organized jointly by the FPCCI and the Islamic Chamber of Commerce.
Streamlined Digital Process
Under the new system, foreign visitors can now apply online for a Pakistan visa without visiting embassies. The digital platform aims to make the process faster, transparent, and more user-friendly, promoting efficiency in line with international best practices.
Tourism and Economic Benefits
Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh highlighted that these reforms will:
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Encourage international tourism
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Enable visitors to enjoy Pakistan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage
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Contribute to job creation, business growth, and GDP expansion
This initiative is part of Pakistan’s broader economic and tourism reform agenda, focusing on investment opportunities, ease of doing business, and sustainable growth.
Cultural and Geographic Diversity as a Key Attraction
Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, emphasized that Pakistan’s cultural and geographic diversity makes it a unique destination for tourists. With enhanced security and a modern digital infrastructure, Pakistan is poised to attract:
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International tourists
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Business travelers
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Investors in sectors such as adventure tourism, heritage, and eco-tourism
This initiative positions Pakistan as a global tourist-friendly country, encouraging visitors to explore its landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture while boosting economic opportunities.
