A Pakistani citizen over the age of 65 can get visa on arrival at Atari-Wagah Check post (road route only) in Punjab, but will not get permission to stay in Punjab. In other words Attari can be used only as a transit point.

Integrated check post (ICP) at the border is all set to introduce visa on arrival based on the new visa regime finalised by the Government.

The regime, which will come into effect from January 15, will allow people crossing the border on foot or through bus to get visa on arrival.

“However, visa through ‘visa on arrival’ will not be given for Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, as well as prohibitive and restrictive places in the country,” a senior Government official told visiting journalists here.

The agreement for new visa regime, signed during the visit of Pakistan Foreign Minister Rahman Mallick, provides Attari as the sole point for entry and exit for people availing themselves of visa on arrival. However, in a very special situation, the Home Ministry may allow departure from any other point.

One of the riders is that visa can be given twice in a calendar year but there should be minimum gap of two months between two visits.

He said that visa can be given for maximum of 45 days in one visit. The person availing the new visa facility will have to give a list of maximum five places.

We will also ensure proper tracking of persons availing themselves of visa on arrival, the official said adding that this is important, they will not be required to report to police as mandated for others.

At present, nearly 100 people use the Attari-Wagah check post daily to cross border on foot. The new system is being introduced to facilitate senior citizens who mostly come for treatment or meeting relatives in India.

Now with the new mechanism, the number is likely to increase, the official said.

Shishir.Sinha@thehindu.co.in

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