Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a significant policy change to increase foreign investment, business activities, and tourism in the country. Businessmen from Gulf countries would be granted visa-free entry into the country, with immediate effect.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Prime Minister Sharif has announced that online visas would be issued within 24 hours to businessmen, investors, and tourists from 126 different countries. In addition, these individuals will also be exempted from any type of visa fees, thus further facilitating their visits to Pakistan.

He further stated that any relaxation in the visa regime is indeed a strategic decision to make Pakistan an attractive destination for investment and tourism. He announced the introduction of a new subcategory under the category of visa on arrival, especially for Sikh pilgrims holding the passports of third countries with a view to promoting religious tourism.

He also announced an E-system of electronic gates at Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore airports. All these steps, he said, would not only help in stabilizing the economy but also increase foreign exchange reserves.

“Pakistan’s sacred places and northern areas, including Gilgit-Baltistan, are a paradise for tourists,” Sharif said. He declared the opening of a dashboard in the Interior Ministry for the monitoring of the new visa regime, which shall help in effective monitoring with periodical review reports.

The prime minister was reported to have appreciated the Ministry of Interior and other relevant divisions for their efforts in implementing the new visa policy, which is likely to contribute much towards strengthening Pakistan’s economy and tourism sector.