Visa Options Expand for Indian and Pakistani Travelers
In 2024, Indian and Pakistani passport holders have access to an expanded list of countries offering visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival. This development comes as a significant boost for travelers from these nations.
Indian Passport Holders:
The Indian passport, ranked 80th in 2024, allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries across various continents:
- Africa: Angola, Burundi, Cape Verde Islands, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Zimbabwe.
- Asia: Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macao (SAR China), Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste.
- Americas: Bolivia, El Salvador.
- Caribbean: Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago.
- Oceania: Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Niue, Palau Islands, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu.
- Middle East: Jordan, Oman, Qatar.
Pakistani Passport Holders:
The Pakistani passport, ranked 101st globally, also offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a number of destinations:
- Africa: Burundi, Cape Verde Islands, Comoros, Djibouti, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritania, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Togo.
- Asia: Cambodia, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste.
- Caribbean: Barbados, Cook Islands, Dominica.
Additional Insights for Indian Nationals
Indian nationals holding a normal passport valid for a minimum of six months can obtain a visa on arrival in certain circumstances. This is applicable for those holding a visit visa or green card issued by the USA, or a UK or EU residence ID, all valid for a minimum of six months. They can stay for a maximum of 14 days, extendable for an additional 14 days through Amer offices in Dubai.
Recent Developments for Pakistani Expats in UAE
Pakistani expats in the UAE can now obtain a power of attorney online through the Nadra website, simplifying legal procedures without needing to visit Pakistan’s embassy. This service is part of a broader initiative to facilitate over 8 million Pakistanis living abroad.
Simplified Passport Replacement for UAE Citizens
UAE citizens can replace lost or damaged passports easily through a four-step process, either via digital channels or customer happiness centers. Requirements vary based on the nature of the replacement (lost, damaged, etc.).
New UAE Labour Laws
The UAE implemented new labor laws in 2022, focusing on different work categories and providing more employee protection. These laws aim to create a more flexible and competitive work environment, responding to changes in the global workplace.
UAE’s New Trading License
The UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) introduced a Dual Licence structure, allowing investors to operate in both free zone and mainland jurisdictions. This initiative aims to enhance the ease of doing business and attract global investors.
