Pakistan Eases Visa Rules for Sikh Pilgrims
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced a major relaxation in visa rules for Sikh pilgrims, allowing them to obtain free visas within half an hour.
This initiative, aimed at enhancing accessibility to Pakistan’s sacred Sikh sites, comes as Naqvi welcomed a group of 44 American Sikhs. U.S. citizens can now receive visas on arrival, with UK and Canadian citizens benefiting from a simplified online process.
Naqvi expressed aspirations to increase Sikh pilgrim numbers from 100,000 to 1 million annually, focusing on encouraging younger generations to explore Pakistan beyond traditional sites like Nankana Sahib, Kartarpur, and Panja Sahib.
He also extended an invitation to Sikh pilgrims worldwide, including those from India, to attend the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, assuring special arrangements for their participation.
The government has also waived visa fees for citizens of 124 countries, further enhancing international travel to Pakistan.
During the meeting, the Sikh delegation expressed gratitude for the hospitality and ease of the visa process, noting an interest in potential investment in Pakistan.
Key Sikh pilgrimage sites in Pakistan, such as Nankana Sahib—the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji—Kartarpur Sahib, and Panja Sahib, hold deep spiritual significance.
These sacred sites, associated with the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, are considered essential for Sikhs worldwide.