Sikhs pilgrims from U.K., U.S. and Canada to get free online visas in Pakistan: Interior Minister
The Hindu
Pakistan's Interior Minister announces free online visas for Sikh pilgrims from US, UK, Canada, aiming to boost tourism.
Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that Sikh pilgrims from the United States, United Kingdom and Canada will receive free online visas within 30 minutes upon arrival in the country to pay respect to their religious sites.
Mr. Naqvi's remarks came as he met with a 44-member foreign delegation of Sikh pilgrims in Lahore on Thursday (October 31, 2024).
The Minister warmly welcomed the Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan. He acknowledged that the Sikh pilgrims faced difficulties while visiting Pakistan in the past, according to a statement by the Ministry of Interior.
Also Read: Pakistan unveils new visa policy to attract foreign investors
Mr. Naqvi announced that the Government has made the visa process easier for Sikhs by making it online. He added that holders of American, Canadian, and UK passports can apply online and receive their visas within 30 minutes without any fees.
He noted that this facility extends also to Sikhs of Indian origin residing in these countries. He stated that providing more facilities to the Sikh community is his government's priority.
He encouraged Sikh pilgrims to visit Pakistan, saying, “You can come to Pakistan 10 times a year, and we will welcome you every time.”
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