Visa-free entry to 50 countries: This Islamic nation provides varied travel options

KUWAIT – In a significant development, Kuwaiti passport holders have gained visa-free access to a total of 50 countries, as confirmed by an official memorandum.

October 8, 2023

Fact-Check: Is UAE denying visas to residents of certain Pakistani cities?

DUBAI – Amid rumours, a Pakistani official in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rubbished the reports that the Gulf country has stopped issuing visit visas to residents of certain cities of Pakistan.

October 7, 2023

Traveling to Israel amid escalating conflict? These airlines have suspended flight operations

ACRE – A number of airlines have stopped flight operations to Israel as the confrontation with Palestinians and Hamas rises to a crescendo.

Four more ‘imposters’ disguised as Umrah pilgrims arrested in Lahore

LAHORE – In another operation, the Federal Investigation Agency's Anti-Human Trafficking and Smuggling wing intercepted a group of suspected beggars at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport on Friday.

Qatar Grants Visa-Free Entry to Another Asian Nation: Details Inside

DOHA – Citizens of Uzbekistan holding a valid return ticket and a passport with at least 6 months of validity can now travel to Qatar without the need for a visa.

Pack your bags, this African nation is offering visa-free entry for over 90 countries.

LUANDA – Another African country has opened up to the outside world, allowing citizens from more than 90 countries visa-free entry, and that too for 90 days.

Germany’s Pro-Immigration Law for Non-EU Workers Set to Take Effect Soon: Details Inside

BERLIN – The movement of non-EU workers to Germany is set to become easier as a pro-immigration law is expected to be implemented next month.

October 6, 2023

Pakistan has unveiled its Hajj policy for 2024, allowing pilgrims to perform the religious pilgrimage without a mehram (male guardian). The policy, which was announced by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, will allow women over the age of 45 to travel for Hajj without a mehram. The policy also allows men over the age of 45 to travel for Hajj without a mehram. The policy also states that pilgrims must be accompanied by a group leader, who

ISLAMABAD – In a pleasantly surprising move, the authorities in Pakistan have confirmed that under next year's Hajj policy, women would be able to perform Hajj without a male guardian (Mehram).

Bali’s Tourism Tax: Collection Start Date Announced

BALI – The government of Indonesia has revealed the official date after which tourists would be liable to pay the tourism tax.

Discussion of Privatization of Pakistan International Airlines with World Bank: Details Inside

ISLAMABAD – The national carrier of Pakistan would be privatized owing to its staggering losses and financial inviability, it was reiterated once again with a high-level team of the World Bank.

Germany backs enlargement of Schengen area with incorporation of two nations

BERLIN – Bulgaria and Romania's entry to the Schengen zone has bagged the support of Germany as Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterated his comments for the said move.

October 5, 2023

Croatia Joins Other EU Countries in Testing Digital Passports

ZAGREB – Croatia is also launching digital passports to get rid of the paper-based travel document aimed at facilitating travelers.

Germany to give long term Schengen visas to citizens from this Islamic nation

BERLIN – In a move aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries, Germany has announced to grant Schengen visas valid for five years to Kuwaiti citizens.

Karachi included in ‘Road to Makkah’ project: Here’s how it will benefit Hajj pilgrims

KARACHI – Pakistan's southern metropolis, Karachi has been included in the 'Road to Makkah' project by the government of Saudi Arabia.

Government Intervenes to Retrieve Two PIA Aircraft Stranded in Indonesia: Details Inside

ISLAMABAD – The issues faced by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) seem to be never-ending as another challenge has popped up.

October 4, 2023

Passport Issuance Experiences Delays in Pakistan: Latest Update

ISLAMABAD – The issuance of Pakistani passport remained suspended on Wednesday across the country for over two hours.

Sweden Work Permit: Govt Raises Minimum Wage Requirement for Foreigners

STOCKHOLM – The Swedish government has decided to increase the minimum salary requirement for labour migrants, indicating that a labour migrant has to generate an income of at least 80 per cent of the average salary in the country.

October 3, 2023

Single Document System: Here’s How Pakistan is Revising Visa Rules for Afghans

ISLAMABAD – The immigration authorities in Pakistan have chalked out a plan to streamline the entry and exit of Afghans through the border crossings of the country.

Pakistan sets timeline to expel Undocumented Immigrants, confirms interior minister

ISLAMABAD – The caretaker federal government of Pakistan announced to deport all those immigrants who are residing in the country illegally.

After Pakistan, Saudi Arabia urges PIA to enhance performance

RIYADH – The national carrier of Pakistan is making headlines across the globe but for all the wrong reasons as the carrier is now being criticized by Saudi Arabia as well.

European country bans import of Russian cars: Details inside

OSLO – In another blow to the Kremlin, the authorities in Norway have announced to join the list of countries that have banned the entry of cars with Russian licence plates.

October 2, 2023

Processing Time for Pakistani Passport Increased: Here is the Updated Schedule for Normal and Urgent Categories

ISLAMABAD – The delivery time for Pakistani passports has been increased in the backdrop of multiple reasons including comprehensive vetting by the immigration authorities.

This Saudi airline is offering 30 percent discount for international flights: Here’s how to take advantage of the offer

RIYADH – A renowned Saudi airline is offering a 30 percent discount for flyers to travel to international destinations.

SalamAir’s inaugural flight from Muscat arrives in Pakistan

PESHAWAR – Peshawar's Bacha Khan International Airport welcomed the carrier of Oman, SalamAir's inaugural flight on Monday.

Canada to Accelerate Immigration Processing and Here’s How

TORONTO – Immigration authorities in Canada have announced fast-track processing of work permits, in a major relief for the professionals.

October 1, 2023

Malaysia exploring visa-free entry eligibility for certain citizens

KUALA LUMPUR – The authorities in Malaysia are exploring the option to exempt Chinese from visa requirements to spur its economic growth through tourism.

Discussion on Saudi Arabia’s Abolition of Visa Requirements for International Travelers

TEHRAN – In a pleasantly surprising move, the authorities in Saudi Arabia are currently discussing abolishing visas with another Muslim country, deemed rival a few months ago.

September 30, 2023

Europe’s top travel destination set to raise tourism tax

AMSTERDAM – One of Europe's most visited destinations, Amsterdam will be hiking its tourism tax next year to claim the top spot with the highest tourist taxes within the European Union.

Another European Nation Abolishes Investment-Based Immigration Visas: Details Inside

AMSTERDAM – Wealthy billionaires from across the world will no longer be able to get Golden Visas of the Netherlands as it will be scrapped soon.

September 29, 2023

Which Pakistani airline is most reliable? CAA reveals official rankings for frequent travelers

ISLAMABAD – The aviation regulator of Pakistan has ranked the carriers of the country for the period from January to June this year.

Implications of Israelis being granted entry to US Visa Waiver Program

WASHINGTON – Authorities in the United States have finally vetted the entry of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program, it emerged on Wednesday.

September 27, 2023

This London airport is cutting back flights again due to Covid-19.

LONDON – The second-busiest airport in London has reduced the number of operational flights due to an outbreak of COVID-19.

PIA aircraft performs emergency landing in Jeddah shortly after takeoff

KARACHI – An aircraft of Pakistan International Airlines made emergency landing in Jeddah, stirring panic amongst the flyers.

Digitalization of Hajj on the Cards as Minister Unveils Plan: Here’s What Will Change

ISLAMABAD – The upcoming year's Hajj would be digitized to streamline the process and to make it more convenient for the pilgrims, it emerged on Wednesday.

This nation just prohibited French aircraft from its airspace as tensions escalate

PARIS – West African country, Niger has closed its airspace for French airlines, including Air France, as the ties between the two countries deteriorate further.

September 26, 2023

This blockbuster movie in China is influencing tourism in Thailand: Details inside

BEIJING – A movie that is a top hit in China is affecting the tourism industry of Thailand, raising concerns amongst the tour operators as hoteling industry as well.

Exploring UAE Visa-Free Travel for Gulf Nations in Major Reform

DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is exploring plans for a liberal visa system that would simplify travel for residents to neighboring Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia.

The United States has clarified its stance on visa-free travel for Israeli citizens, confirming that it will continue to allow visa-free travel for Israeli citizens. The confirmation was made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi. Blinken stated that the US will continue to support visa-free travel for Israeli citizens, and that the two countries will continue to work together to ensure that the process remains secure and efficient.

WASHINGTON – Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen has said with a definitive confirmation that the United States is set to allow Israeli citizens to travel visa-free to the United States.

Iceland Trip Prices Rise with Implementation of New Tax: Details Inside

VIK – The Prime Minister of Iceland has confirmed the imposition of a tax to reduce the impact exponential growth in tourism has on its pristine wilderness.

September 25, 2023

Closure of Islamabad Airport’s runway: Details Inside

ISLAMABAD – During the last days of September, the primary runway of Islamabad International Airport is slated to be inaccessible during early morning and designated nighttime hours, it emerged on Monday.

Germany threatens to reinstate visa restrictions with Poland: Here's the contentious issue dividing the EU

WARSAW – The two renowned powers of Europe, Germany and Poland are formally exchanging barbs over a visa scandal that made headlines a few days ago.

Australia resumes visa processing for tour groups from this nation as Covid restrictions ease

CANBERRA – Authorities in Australia have announced the resumption of the visa process for Chinese group travelers, an official statement confirmed.

Egypt declares polio vaccination certificate mandatory for Pakistani travelers 

KARACHI – Egypt has declared it mandatory for people traveling from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other countries to provide a polio vaccination certificate.

This Islamic nation will provide unrestricted internet access to non-citizens but not to citizens

TEHRAN – In what appears to be a liberal move, Iran has confirmed to provide unrestricted SIM cards to foreign tourists, contrary to the policy for the locals.

September 24, 2023

Women presumed to be asleep discovered deceased on British warship

LONDON – In a tragic turn of events, a passenger aboard a plane who appeared to be asleep to fellow passengers was found dead as the plane landed.

PIA aircraft narrowly avoids two incidents in one day

SIALKOT – The cash-strapped Pakistan International Airline's aircraft narrowly escaped two accidents in a single day.

Japan Considering Expanding Electronic Visa Issuance: What It Implies

TOKYO – The immigration authorities in Japan are exploring the option to expand the electronic visa services system to other countries.

Hasten! This African nation has initiated digital tourist visa offer

WINDHOEK – The Southern African country, Namibia has announced to launch online tourist visa applications beginning from Friday to facilitate tourism supporting the economy.

September 23, 2023

US Takes Swift Action to Impose Visa Restrictions on Citizens of Bangladesh: Details Inside

DHAKA – The authorities in the United States have finally confirmed to take steps regarding visa restrictions on some of the Bangladeshi individuals over elections.

Pakistan’s Aviation Regulator to be Divided into Two Separate Entities

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority would be split into two separate entities, it emerged on Saturday.

First direct flight from Azerbaijan lands at Lahore airport

LAHORE – Azerbaijan has landed its first-ever direct flight to Pakistan, a milestone in the ties between the two sides.

New Zealand increases Green List and these professionals can apply for expedited residency

AUCKLAND – The authorities in New Zealand have announced expansion of the Green List, an initiative that allows professionals from different roles to acquire residency in the country.

British PM announces decision on airport taxes: Read details here

LONDON – The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has confirmed that there will be no more taxes on flying in the United Kingdom.

September 22, 2023

Indian flyer tries opening emergency exit mid air: Details inside

NEW DELHI – In a surprising turn of events, a passenger sitting next to the emergency door of the plane tried to open it while the flight was mid-air.

US testing Digital Visa Authorization: Here's what it means for future travel

WASHINGTON – In a major tech push aimed at facilitating passengers, the U.

Hajj 2024: Best facilities for Pakistani pilgrims, confirms Saudi minister

RIYADH – Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dr.

Pilgrims to buy tickets for visiting historical sites in Saudi Arabia: Details inside

RIYADH – The government of Saudi Arabia is introducing tickets to visit historical sites in the holy kingdom, apparently meaning that there might be no more free visits.

September 21, 2023

Operation of ETIAS delayed further: Here's what it means for EU visa seekers

BRUSSELS – The launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), has been delayed, it emerged this week.

India clarifies visa policy for students in Canada as diplomatic tension soars

NEW DELHI – Authorities in India have clarified that the recent tussle between New Delhi and Canada would not impact students.

Massive visa scandal dents Polish govt ahead of elections: Details inside

WARSAW – The ruling party in Poland is under fire for allegations that one of the officials took bribes to issue a large number of visas to applicants from Asia and AfricanThe anti-immigration Polish government is facing criticism for allegations of issuing hundreds of thousands of working visas in exchange for bribes and an anti-corruption body.

PIA privatization on the cards as timeline finalized: Details inside

ISLAMABAD – The caretaker regime finalized a clear timeline for privatizing the national carrier of Pakistan currently facing a financial crunch.

September 20, 2023

You can travel through this airport without any passport: Details inside

SINGAPORE – In a major tech push, travelers departing from one of the world's busiest airports will no longer require carrying a passport with them for travel.

China eases visa processing to attract tourists and here are the fresh changes

BEIJING – Authorities in China confirmed simplifying the visa application processing with an aim to attract more visitors from abroad.

Hajj 2024: 'Road to Makkah' expansion in focus as minister lands in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH – Pakistan’s interim religious affairs minister Aneeq Ahmed arrived in the Saudi capital Riyadh to discuss issues related to Hajj and more specifically expansion of the 'Road to Makkah' project.

US announces interview waiver, reduced wait time for visa seekers from Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Authorities in the United States have announced multiple steps to ease and expedite visa processing for Pakistan.

September 19, 2023

Gwadar Airport inauguration delayed once again: Here’s the new deadline

QUETTA – The opening of the new Gwadar International Airport has been delayed for one more time due to multiple reasons, it emerged on Saturday.

September 17, 2023

Gwadar Airport inauguration delayed once again: Here's the new deadline

QUETTA – The opening of the new Gwadar International Airport has been delayed for one more time due to multiple reasons, it emerged on Saturday.

PIA sees improvement in flight operations, confirms spox

ISLAMABAD – The national carrier of Pakistan has claimed to improve flight operations amid mounting financial crisis and calls for privatization.

Is UAE Transit Visa extendable? Here's what Immigration Authority says

DUBAI – The immigration authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have clarified the issue related to the extension of transit visas.

Vietnam launching E-visa for Pakistan: Details inside

ISLAMABAD – The government of Vietnam will be launching E-Visa service for business people from Pakistan, it emerged on Saturday.

Is UAE Transit Visa extendable? Here’s what Immigration Authority says

DUBAI – The immigration authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have clarified the issue related to the extension of transit visas.

UK increases Visit Visa, Student Visa fee: Here's the new fee

LONDON – The authorities in the United Kingdom have announced a raise in the fee for student visas and visit visas to be made effective from next month.

September 16, 2023

Unesco refuses to add Venice to heritage danger list: Details inside

MILAN – World famous popular hotspot, Venice was lucky enough to avoid placement on Unesco's world heritage in danger list.

China relaxes visa process but for travelers from this country: Details inside

MUMBAI – Authorities in China have relaxed the visa requirements for Indians, providing them with much relief to travel to the country.

Schengen Visa processing time to reduce, confirms EU Commission

BERLIN – The processing time for the most sought-after Schengen Visas will be shortened as the digitalization of the visa application procedure takes effect.

UAE visa ban: Emirati official addresses rumors regarding travel resumption

DUBAI – The authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have denied the news regarding any visa changes for citizens from Nigeria.

UK increases Visit Visa, Student Visa fee: Here’s the new fee

LONDON – The authorities in the United Kingdom have announced a raise in the fee for student visas and visit visas to be made effective from next month.

Unesco refuses to add Venice to heritage danger list: Details inside

MILAN – World famous popular hotspot, Venice was lucky enough to avoid placement on Unesco’s world heritage in danger list.

PIA gets Rs 1b from CAA to pay staff salaries as financial crisis continues

ISLAMABAD – The employees of the national carrier of Pakistan were bailed out partially by the Civil Aviation Authority as the latter provided funds worth a billion to the carrier.

Video: Casualties feared as aircraft crashes in India

MUMBAI – In a tragic turn of events, a private jet carrying eight veered off the Runway at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai.

September 14, 2023

Russia exploring visa-free travel for these Muslim countries

MOSCOW – Authorities in Russia are planning to cancel visa requirements for visitors from five major Muslim countries, in what appears to be a major development.

Citizens from this country can now visit Thailand visa free: Details inside

BANGKOK – World famous tourist hotspot, Thailand has announced to waive visa requirements for citizens from China in a bid to revive the economy.

PIA grounds more aircraft as financial crunch bites

ISLAMABAD – The national carrier of Pakistan has confirmed that some aircraft have been grounded but they would be back in operation soon.

PIA is now canceling local flights as financial crisis worsens

ISLAMABAD – The national flag carrier of Pakistan is unable to operate flights even on a national level now as the financial challenges are preventing routine operations.

September 12, 2023

Man onboard Mumbai-Guwahati flight gropes female flyer: Details inside

MUMBAI – In another case of sexual harassment, a man was arrested by authorities in India after he was alleged of touching a female co-passenger inappropriately.

September 11, 2023

PIA launches recruitment drive for Captain and Cabin Crew

KARACHI – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has started searching for Captains and Cabin crew for its low-capacity ATR aircraft.

September 10, 2023

Pakistan to ease visa policy for business people, confirms PM Kakar

ISLAMABAD – In an effort to attract investors and promote business, Pakistan’s caretaker regime has decided to ease the visa policy for businessmen.

September 9, 2023

Govt ‘eases out’ financial problems of PIA: Here’s how

ISLAMABAD – The national carrier of Pakistan confirmed on Saturday that its financial issues have “eased out” after the caretaker government released funds aimed at supporting the airline.

This country aims to waive visa fees for Chinese tour groups: Details inside

SEOUL – Authorities in South Korea are exploring the option to waive visa processing fees for Chinese tourist groups in what appears to be a reciprocal move.

Pakistan to ease visa policy for business people, confirms PM Kakar

ISLAMABAD – In an effort to attract investors and promote business, Pakistan's caretaker regime has decided to ease the visa policy for businessmen.

Karachi airport gets latest equipment from Australia to combat visa fraud: Details inside

KARACHI – The Jinnah International Airport Karachi has been equipped with modern technology aimed at combating visa fraud and preventing criminals from escaping.

Govt 'eases out' financial problems of PIA: Here's how

ISLAMABAD – The national carrier of Pakistan confirmed on Saturday that its financial issues have “eased out” after the caretaker government released funds aimed at supporting the airline.

Immigration referendum in France: Macron hints at possible vote

PARIS – In a major development, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that he would offer proposals to widen referendums in the country to permit a possible ballot on immigration.

September 8, 2023

Govt seeks reduction in number of Private Hajj operators: Here’s why

ISLAMABAD – Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmad expressed on Friday that the government of Saudi Arabia wanted to reduce the number of private Hajj tour operators.

Govt seeks reduction in number of Private Hajj operators: Here's why

ISLAMABAD – Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmad expressed on Friday that the government of Saudi Arabia wanted to reduce the number of private Hajj tour operators.

Can you still apply for US Lottery Visa? State Department clarifies

WASHINGTON – The authorities in the United States have clarified that all available diversity visas (Lottery Visas) have been issued for the ongoing year.

Will UK change immigration policy for trade deal with India? PM's spokesperson clarifies

LONDON – In a major development, the spokesperson for British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the country has no plans to change its approach to reducing net migration to help secure a free trade deal with India.

September 7, 2023

Will UK change immigration policy for trade deal with India? PM’s spokesperson clarifies

LONDON – In a major development, the spokesperson for British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the country has no plans to change its approach to reducing net migration to help secure a free trade deal with India.

PIA's crisis deepens as spare parts supply likely to be suspended soon: Read details here

ISLAMABAD – The cash-strapped national carrier of Pakistan has warned of further deterioration as Boeing and Airbus are likely to suspend the supply of spare parts to the firm.

Passengers to brace themselves for another travel disruption as pilots announce strike

BRUGES – Mid-September seems to be tough, especially for passengers set to depart from Belgium as pilots have warned of a fresh strike.