India: Restrictions Implemented for Pakistani Nationals
April 28, 2025
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At a Glance
The Indian government has taken restrictive measures following security concerns stemming from an attack in Pahalgam:
- The processing and issuance of all visas for Pakistani nationals are suspended until further notice.
- All visas issued to Pakistani nationals will be revoked as of April 27, 2025. Pakistani nationals currently in India must leave India before April 27, 2025.
- Update April 28, 2025: Long-Term Visas already issued to Hindu Pakistani nationals are exempt from revocation and individuals holding these visas can stay in India.
- Permissions of Pakistani nationals holding South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Visa Exemption Scheme status are deemed cancelled, and Pakistani nationals under this program currently in India must leave India by the time their visa expires.
- The Attari border checkpoint has been closed, and diplomatic staff in Pakistan have been reduced.
The situation
In response to increased security concerns, India has implemented restrictive measures for Pakistani nationals.
A closer look
| Change | Impact |
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Visa suspensions.
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Shutdown of Attari checkpoint. India has closed the only permitted land trade checkpoint with Pakistan. |
Those who have traveled through this checkpoint to India must return to Pakistan through the route before May 1, 2025. |
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Diplomatic staff reductions.
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No Indian visas will be processed for Pakistani nationals across all Indian consular posts, until further notice. Visa applications for those of Pakistani origin will face increased scrutiny and longer processing times. |
Background
These decisions follow increased security concerns following an attack in Pahalgam.
Looking ahead
The situation is fluid. The Indian government is likely to continue to take other measures, implement additional stricter immigration regulations.
Travelers to the affected areas should consult with their airlines, travel agencies, and local government for the most current information and recommendations as there may be rerouted flights and/or flight delays in the area.
We will report additional information in this alert as it becomes available.
Fragomen in India is Fragomen Immigration Services India (Pvt) Ltd., operating exclusively as an immigration consultancy and not as a law firm in India. This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected] or [email protected].
