Dar Orders Visa Overhaul to Boost Diaspora, Investor Access

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Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar directs the Foreign Office to streamline visa processes, prioritizing transparency and efficiency for overseas Pakistanis and investors.

On August 9, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) to implement further reforms to simplify visa procedures, focusing on overseas Pakistanis, investors, and business travelers. Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, as reported by Pakistan Today, Dar reviewed the progress of visa facilitation initiatives launched in 2024 under his guidance. He emphasized the need for faster processing, greater transparency, and the adoption of digital tools to enhance consular services at Pakistan’s missions abroad, aiming to strengthen economic ties and diaspora engagement.

Dar underscored that efficient visa issuance is critical for fostering business partnerships and attracting foreign investment. According to The Express Tribune, he directed officials to minimize bureaucratic hurdles and ensure missions adhere to global best practices. The Foreign Office (FO) briefed Dar on steps taken to simplify application processes, reduce delays, and integrate digital platforms for improved service delivery. “Timely visa services are essential for connecting with our diaspora and promoting economic growth,” Dar stated, as quoted by Business Recorder. He also called for ongoing monitoring to identify additional areas for reform, ensuring accessibility for economic stakeholders.

The reforms build on existing efforts, such as Pakistan’s e-visa system, already implemented for several countries, and a recent visa exemption agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for diplomatic and official passport holders, effective July 25, 2025, per Geo News. These measures align with Pakistan’s broader strategy to boost foreign investment and support its 9 million-strong diaspora, a key source of remittances contributing $30 billion annually, according to The Nation. The meeting highlighted the government’s commitment to modernizing consular services to facilitate travel and business opportunities.

Dar’s directives reflect a pragmatic approach to addressing long-standing complaints about visa delays, which have hindered economic engagement. By prioritizing transparency and efficiency, the government aims to position Pakistan as an attractive destination for investors while strengthening ties with its global community. The reforms are expected to enhance Pakistan’s diplomatic and economic outreach, ensuring consular services meet the needs of a dynamic global landscape.