In a drastic move signalling the downgrading of diplomatic ties, India has revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals effective April 27, 2025. The announcement was made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday. The decision comes in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives and triggered national outrage.
The MEA said in an official statement that this decision is in line with the recommendations of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which convened following the attack. “All existing valid visas issued by India to Pakistani nationals stand revoked with effect from 27 April 2025,” the statement said.
Press Release: Decision regarding Visas of Pakistani nationals⬇️
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 24, 2025
Medical visas given a brief extension
The MEA statement further added that medical visas issued to Pakistani nationals will remain valid until April 29. However, all Pakistani citizens who are currently in India have been instructed to leave before their visa expiry date, now amended per the latest directive.
Indians warned against travel to Pakistan
The MEA has also issued a strong advisory to Indian nationals, urging them to avoid any travel to Pakistan. Those currently in Pakistan have been asked to return to India at the earliest opportunity, citing safety concerns. New Delhi announced on Wednesday that the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Visa Exemption Scheme, which allowed Pakistanis to travel to India, will no longer be in effect.
Diplomatic briefing underway
In a parallel diplomatic effort, the Centre has called in all foreign ambassadors based in New Delhi for a special briefing on the Pahalgam terror attack, aimed to apprise the international community of the gravity of the situation and the rationale behind India’s latest measures.
This move marks a significant escalation in tensions between India and its belligerent neighbour. It signals a hardening of India’s stance following the dastardly attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
The attack occurred at Baisaran, the scenic meadow dubbed “mini Switzerland” for its lush landscapes and tourist appeal. The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror group, has claimed responsibility for the assault.
