Dar orders faster, transparent visa processing in overseas missions

The deputy prime minister noted that while several improvements had been made over the past year, more needed to be done to ensure timely and hassle-free services.

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has directed Pakistan’s missions abroad to accelerate the visa issuance process, making it more transparent and efficient, with a particular focus on facilitating overseas Pakistanis, investors, and the business community.

According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office on Friday, Dar chaired a high-level meeting to review the reforms introduced in 2024 concerning the visa issuance system at Pakistan’s foreign missions. The meeting assessed progress on measures taken to streamline the process and enhance service delivery to applicants.

The deputy prime minister noted that while several improvements had been made over the past year, more needed to be done to ensure timely and hassle-free The deputy prime minister noted that while several improvements had been made over the past year, more needed to be done to ensure timely and hassle-free services. Services. He instructed officials to cut unnecessary bureaucratic delays, adopt a customer-oriented approach, and introduce technology-driven solutions to reduce processing time.

“Visa procedures must not only be efficient but also transparent. We must win the confidence of the public, particularly our overseas nationals and foreign investors, by ensuring a quick and smooth application process,” Dar was quoted as saying.

Highlighting the importance of overseas Pakistanis as a vital source of remittances and economic engagement, Dar stressed the need for missions to act as facilitators rather than gatekeepers. He also directed that special attention be given to investors and members of the business community, for whom time-sensitive travel approvals are crucial.

The meeting discussed ongoing initiatives, including the digitization of applications, improved online tracking systems, and staff training to enhance professionalism and customer service at missions abroad. Officials were told to identify and resolve bottlenecks in the system, with quarterly progress reports to be submitted to the Foreign Office.

Dar underscored that the visa regime is a critical component of Pakistan’s international image and that inefficiencies or delays could deter investment and tourism. “Our foreign missions are the first point of contact for many people looking to engage with Pakistan. They must reflect the efficiency and openness we wish to project to the world,” he said.

The deputy prime minister’s directive comes amid growing calls from the diaspora for a more streamlined visa process, particularly for family visits, business travel, and dual nationals seeking to engage with the homeland. The Foreign Office said it will continue monitoring reforms to ensure long-term improvements.