Sikh Pilgrims from UK, US, and Canada to Receive Free On-Arrival Visas to Pakistan

In a landmark move aimed at bolstering religious tourism, Pakistan has introduced a swift, fee-free online visa process for Sikh pilgrims from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, allowing access within 30 minutes upon arrival. The announcement came from Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, during a meeting with a 44-member Sikh delegation in Lahore on Thursday.

Naqvi acknowledged the past obstacles Sikh visitors faced when visiting Pakistan’s revered religious sites. He emphasized the government’s commitment to easing travel for Sikh pilgrims, stating, “Providing more facilities to the Sikh community is our priority.” With the new system, Sikh travelers holding American, Canadian, or UK passports can now apply for visas online at no cost. Naqvi underscored the inclusivity of this policy by assuring pilgrims, “You can come to Pakistan 10 times a year, and we will welcome you every time.”

Naqvi likened Pakistan’s significance for Sikh pilgrims, home to many key religious landmarks, to that of Saudi Arabia for Muslims. As part of Pakistan’s effort to enhance access, he announced that various Sikh heritage sites across the country would no longer require permits for visits. Naqvi revealed his vision to increase the number of Sikh pilgrims visiting Pakistan annually from 100,000 to one million, placing special focus on attracting younger members of the Sikh community.

The delegation expressed gratitude, with one member noting, “You have won our hearts,” in response to the streamlined visa process and the warm hospitality extended by Pakistani officials. This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to attract international tourism and stimulate economic growth. In August, Pakistan waived visa fees for citizens of 124 countries, aiming to encourage global tourism and investment.

The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) applauded this move, with its Executive Director, Satnam Singh Chahal, remarking on the policy’s convenience for the Sikh diaspora. Chahal also called for renewed cross-border trade, urging both Pakistan and India to reopen the Wagah border. He noted that resuming trade through Wagah would significantly reduce shipping costs and logistical hurdles, allowing businesses on both sides to benefit economically.

Highlighting the broader implications of cross-border commerce, Chahal emphasized that direct trade could revitalize local industries, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for millions. “With greater access to each other’s markets, the balance of trade can become more equitable, benefiting both countries’ economies,” he said.