Pakistan has issued a clarification regarding travel regulations for overseas Pakistanis holding foreign passports. Those possessing a valid National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (Nicop) will still be permitted entry into Pakistan without additional visas. However, travelers with expired or invalid Nicops must secure a Pakistani visa prior to their journey.
Contrary to some misleading reports, British passport holders are not entirely barred from entering Pakistan based solely on Nicop status. The updated rules apply universally to passengers departing from all countries, including the UK, the United States, and European nations, who lack a valid Nicop.
In a significant development, airlines have been instructed to deny boarding to any passenger traveling on a foreign passport whose Nicop is expired, invalid, or cancelled unless they hold a valid Pakistani visa or passport. No exceptions will be granted for those failing to meet these entry requirements.
Officials emphasized that the directive has caused confusion and misinformation, but reiterated that travelers with a valid Nicop can continue to enter Pakistan under existing protocols. Airline station managers have been tasked with ensuring all staff are fully briefed and that passengers receive accurate guidance before boarding flights to Pakistan.
