Pakistan Will No Longer Issue Visa on Arrival

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar announced on Monday that visa on arrival will not be given to any foreigners visiting Pakistan. The purpose of this prohibition is to avoid any “irregularities” in the database.

This decision was made at a high level meeting chaired by Mr. Nisar. At the meeting, he ordered the participants to ensure strict implementation of laws and regulations in the Interior Ministry and its sub departments.

Mr. Nisar also ordered a revision and update for visa rules.

Online Visa System and Central Database

He emphasized the need for an online visa system for minimizing discretion, improving transparency and hasten the visa process.

Strict action will be taken if the people’s problems are not addressed properly, said the Interior Minister.

Mr. Nisar said that a lot of good work has been done for the visa issuance and the immigration department. However there is still room for improvement to further streamline the process and remove any loopholes.

Some of the issues will be resolved after the launch of the new online visa application system according to the minister.

A central visa database is important as it would allow the government institutions to keep tabs on anyone entering or leaving Pakistan using any visa category, said Mr. Nisar.

Border Control Department

Another measure to enhance the security and surveillance at the borders is also being considered. An Immigration and Border Control Department (IBCD) will be established to keep watch on all entries and exits through land air and sea routes in Pakistan.

The Interior Minister said that another separate body of the IBCD should be set up under the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Currently border security is managed by the FIA, establishing the IBCD would further strengthen security at the borders, according to Mr. Nisar.