ISLAMABAD: In a noteworthy administrative change, the federal government has updated the Pakistan visa policy for foreign newborns, aiming to simplify the bureaucratic processes for diplomats and expatriates residing in the country.
On January 16, 2025, under the leadership of Secretary Khurram Agha, the Ministry of Interior released a directive designed to streamline the procedure for acquiring exit permits and visas for the children of foreign residents. This initiative arises from Cabinet decision No. 13/Rule-19/2025/1099, dated January 6, 2025, and has received favorable feedback from diplomatic missions and expatriate families.
The directive, endorsed by Deputy Secretary (Visa) Ms. Shireen Hina, has been circulated to all pertinent ministries and government agencies for immediate implementation, signifying the government’s commitment to improving service efficiency and strengthening international relations.
Key Advantages of the Revised Visa Policy
A fundamental aspect of the new visa policy for foreign newborns is the streamlined procedure for issuing exit permits. Parents of diplomats and foreign nationals now need only to provide a recent passport, thus removing multiple cumbersome steps and significantly alleviating the challenges faced by families preparing for international travel.
This updated policy also fosters global mobility for foreign residents, assuring that exit permits and visas for newborns will be processed swiftly—a critical benefit for diplomatic personnel and expatriates with urgent travel needs.
In addition, for Pakistani parents abroad, the policy facilitates the issuance of a Pakistani visa for their newborn based solely on the child’s recent passport. This adjustment eliminates the previous requirement for an Emergency or Temporary Travel Document, simplifying the process—though it does not apply to the Humanitarian Safe House (HSH) category.
This reform also enhances Pakistan’s standing on the international stage, presenting the country as more accommodating to foreign nationals and the diplomatic community. It signifies a progressive approach to administrative services, which could attract international talent and investment.
To further enhance the process, NADRA has been tasked with integrating the new policy into the Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS), allowing for digital applications and reducing the need for in-person visits.
The widespread dissemination of this directive to major ministries, law enforcement agencies, and provincial authorities underscores its significance at the national level. The government’s commitment to digital governance and effective service delivery is evident in these prompt and impactful reforms to the Pakistan visa policy for foreign newborns.
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