Pahalgam attack: Centre suspends visa services to Pakistani nationals, asks them to leave India

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror assault, the central government on Thursday banned visa services for Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. According to a notification from the Ministry of External Affairs, all Pakistani nationals must leave India because their visas have been canceled from April 27. The MEA has also recommended Indian citizens not to visit to Pakistan.

"In continuation of the Cabinet Committee on Security's recommendations following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Government of India has decided to stop visa services to Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. All valid visas given by India to Pakistani nationals are withdrawn with effect from April 27, 2025. Medical visas awarded to Pakistani nationals will only be valid until April 29, 2025, according to the announcement.

According to the MEA notification, all Pakistani nationals in India must depart before the modified visa deadline expires. The administration has urged all Indians in Pakistan to return immediately. "Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid visiting Pakistan. "Indian nationals who are currently in Pakistan should return to India as soon as possible," it added.