ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — In a move to enhance the country’s global appeal, Pakistan will establish separate immigration counters for foreign passengers at all international airports, aiming to improve the travel experience, promote tourism, and attract investment.
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed on Friday that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed aviation and border authorities to implement the new policy with immediate effect. The initiative, presented as part of a wider strategy to make Pakistan more accessible to international visitors, is expected to streamline immigration processes at key entry points.
A press release from the PMO stated that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to improving Pakistan’s standing as a welcoming destination for foreign tourists, investors, and business travellers. It added that faster processing for foreign nationals would not only create a better first impression but also reduce congestion and wait times for returning citizens.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Interior and the Civil Aviation Authority are reportedly coordinating efforts to ensure that the infrastructure and staff required for the new counters are in place within the coming weeks. The move comes amid growing calls from within Pakistan’s hospitality and business communities to modernise entry protocols and better accommodate international guests.
According to sources familiar with the plan, signage and assistance desks will also be updated to ensure smoother navigation for foreign passengers unfamiliar with local procedures. The government has not specified a fixed date for rollout but indicated that the implementation will occur in phases, starting with airports in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
Industry experts welcomed the move, calling it a practical step towards enhancing Pakistan’s soft image and boosting foreign direct investment. Some analysts, however, warned that without corresponding improvements in visa policy, security screening, and airport amenities, the new counters alone may not significantly raise international visitor numbers.
