Pahalgam terror attack: Pakistan visa rules change

In the wake of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 civilians dead and dozens injured, the Indian government has revoked all valid visas issued to Pakistani nationals and suspended all categories of visa services for citizens of Pakistan.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the revocation took effect on April 27, 2025. While medical visas were granted a short grace period, they too were rendered invalid as of April 29. This sweeping move follows a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, which also saw India take further diplomatic and strategic actions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the closure of border crossings.

The Pahalgam attack, carried out on April 22 and claimed by the militant outfit Kashmir Resistance, has been linked by Indian authorities to cross-border terrorism allegedly sponsored by Pakistan — a charge Islamabad firmly denies.

In response, Pakistan has enacted retaliatory measures, including closing its airspace to Indian airlines, halting bilateral trade, and suspending visas for Indian citizens. The escalation has brought renewed international concern about the growing tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with calls for restraint and diplomatic engagement.

The sudden visa revocation has particularly impacted Pakistani patients undergoing medical treatment in India, many of whom have been forced to cut their visits short. Humanitarian organizations have urged both governments to safeguard medical and family-based travel from political fallout.

As the situation remains tense, observers stress the need for renewed dialogue to avoid further deterioration of bilateral relations and regional stability.