Traveling between Pakistan and India involves navigating specific visa regulations and procedures. This guide provides essential information for Pakistani citizens planning a trip to India, covering the necessary steps, documentation, and important considerations.
Visa Application Process for Pakistani Citizens
The High Commission of India has a structured process for handling visa applications from Pakistani passport holders. To ensure a smooth and timely visa acquisition, follow these steps:
- Obtain Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents as specified by the Indian High Commission.
- Online Application: Complete the Online Visa Application Form.
Alt text: Screenshot of the Indian online visa application form, highlighting the required fields for Pakistani applicants.
3. Print and Sign: Print two copies of the completed online form, sign them, and affix a recent photograph to each.
4. Submission: Submit the application forms along with required documents, your passport, and the applicable fee at designated TCS Visatronics / Gerry’s International- Visa Drop Box locations in Pakistan.
5. Clearance: Your application will be reviewed and forwarded to the Foreigner Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi, India for clearance.
6. Visa Processing: Upon receiving clearance, the visa will be processed, and your passport will be sent back to the TCS Visatronics / Gerry’s International- Visa Drop Box.
7. Passport Delivery: The TCS Visatronics / Gerry’s International- Visa Drop Box will notify you for passport collection.
Important Considerations for Visa Applicants
- Processing Time: Visa processing for Pakistani nationals can take between 15 to 90 days due to mandatory prior clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs of India.
- Passport Withdrawal: Withdrawing your passport during the processing period will result in application rejection, requiring a fresh application.
- Advance Notice for Passport Return: To retrieve your passport, contact the TCS/Gerry’s submission center at least 4 working days in advance. Note that passports are only returned if the visa application was submitted at least 30 days prior.
- Form Accuracy: Ensure all details on the Visa Application form are accurate. Incomplete or incorrect forms will be rejected.
Alt text: Example of a completed Indian visa application form, illustrating the information required from Pakistani applicants.
- Document Submission: All necessary documents must be attached to the application. Originals should be available if an interview is required.
- Visa Discretion: Visa approval is not guaranteed upon application acceptance. The High Commission of India reserves the right to refuse a visa without providing a reason. Visa fees are non-refundable.
- Accurate Information: Providing false or misleading information will lead to visa denial.
- Entry Rights: A visa does not guarantee entry; immigration authorities have the final say.
- Dual Nationality: Pakistanis with dual nationality must apply using their Pakistani passports. Foreign passport holders of Pakistani origin need to submit the online application along with their foreign passport and a valid Pakistani visa, NICOP, or a Citizenship Renunciation Letter.
Key Aspects of Visa Processing
- Online Form: The online visa form is available at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/. Select Pakistan as the country and PAKISTAN-ISLAMABAD as the Indian Mission/Office.
- Address Field: The online form’s address field allows a maximum of 50 characters.
- Photo Specifications: Upload a JPEG format photograph (minimum 10 KB, maximum 1 MB) with dimensions of at least 350×350 pixels. The photo must be recent, front-facing with a white background, and showing the full face (ear to ear).
Visa Types
Various visa categories are available, including:
- Visitor Visa
- Business Visa
- Conference Visa
- Pilgrim Visa
- Medical / Medical Attendant Visa
- Journalist Visa
- Student Visa
- Transit Visa
- Official Visa
- Assignment Visa
Additional Important Points
- Visa Fee: The visa fee for Pakistani passport holders is PKR 100/- for all visa types.
- Hand-Filled Forms: The High Commission does not accept hand-filled application forms.
- Visa Validity: The visa is valid from the date of issue, not the date of entry. Ensure your journey is completed before the visa’s expiration date.
- Group Applications: For group travel, use the Online Application Form for Group Case to streamline the process.
Alt text: Image of a TCS Visatronics/Gerry’s International visa application drop box center in Pakistan, where Pakistani applicants can submit their visa forms.
Health Requirements
- Polio Certification: All visa applicants in Pakistan require a Polio vaccination certificate.
- Yellow Fever: Travelers from or through Yellow Fever countries must present a valid vaccination certificate.
Compliance and Reporting
- Police Reporting: Pakistani nationals (excluding those with visas exempting police reporting) must register in person at the nearest police station/Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO)/Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) within 24 hours of arrival. A similar report is required 24 hours before departure from each place of stay.
Conclusion
While it is possible for a Pakistani citizen to travel to India, it requires careful adherence to the outlined procedures and regulations. Thorough preparation and accurate documentation are crucial for a successful visa application. Always refer to the official website of the High Commission of India for the most up-to-date information and guidelines.
