ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the authorities concerned to issue six-month multiple entry visas to transporters from Afghanistan.
The premier approved all proposals put forward by the Afghan Inter-Ministerial Coordination Cell during the federal cabinet meeting.
The federal cabinet directed the Pakistan embassy to assess Afghan visa applications on the basis of current nationality and passport, rather than the country of origin.
In addition, the cabinet issued the following instructions:
- A new sub-category will be introduced under the work visa category in the online visa system.
- Initially, multiple entry visas will be issued for a period of six months; Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry will have the authority to extend the period by one year.
- Documents required to accompany the visa application will include the applicant’s photograph, passport, registration as a transport company and employment letter.
- Recommendation letter from Investment Board and Security Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) exemption from registration for visas of drivers, transporters, helpers etc.
The federal cabinet noted that all these decisions have been taken to promote trade with Afghanistan and the amendments have been made as the main purpose of obtaining visas is the sole movement of goods across the border.
All of the above suggestions will also apply to transporters, drivers and helpers from all Organization of Economic Cooperation (ECO) member countries.
After the approval of the cabinet, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will be directed to change the online visa system of Pakistan.
In addition, to promote ease of doing business, the Ministry of External Affairs and Investment Boards will integrate the online visa system with online payments.
PM Shahbaz said, “We need to remove all obstacles to help Afghans and provide them a conducive environment to invest in Pakistan, who are looking for opportunities in the Gulf countries.” A policy in this regard will be framed within two weeks. ,
During the meeting, the cabinet also approved a proposal to ease visa policy for patients coming from Afghanistan.
The cabinet also approved a seven-point agenda including the National Waste Management Policy 2022. The meeting also approved a proposal to change the visa policy for different countries.