India: Restrictions Implemented for Pakistani Nationals

In our Spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we focus on the response made by the Indian government following a recent incident in Pahaglam.

The Indian government has introduced a series of measures impacting Pakistani nationals and diplomatic relations. These are outlined as follows:

Visa Suspension

• All existing and valid visas issued to Pakistani nationals for stay or employment in India are revoked effective 27 April 2025, until further notice.

• Holders of medical visas must depart India by 29 April 2025, when their visas will expire.

• No new visas will be processed or issued to Pakistani nationals at any Indian consular office at this time.

• Visa applications from individuals of Pakistani origin will be subject to enhanced scrutiny and extended processing times.

• Permissions granted under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Visa Scheme Exemption (SVES) will be cancelled. Pakistani nationals currently residing in India under this exemption must leave the country upon visa expiry.

Reductions in Diplomatic Staff

• Diplomatic staff at the Pakistani High Commission in India have been given one week to depart the country.

Advisory for Indian Nationals in Pakistan

• Indian nationals currently residing in Pakistan are strongly advised to return to India at the earliest opportunity.

Meanwhile, the Pakistani government has responded by closing the Wagah border crossing, effectively halting cross-border travel between the two countries.

At this time, it remains uncertain when restrictions will be lifted. Additional measures may be introduced in the coming days.

For more information or assistance regarding the above developments or other global immigration matters, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

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