In the wake of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists, India has begun enforcing strict visa regulations on Pakistani nationals. As a result, 786 Pakistani citizens have departed the country through the Attari-Wagah border since April 24, according to senior officials.
During the same period, 1,376 Indian nationals have returned from Pakistan through the same border crossing.
The move follows the Indian government’s directive issued on April 24, mandating that Pakistani nationals holding short-term visas must leave the country by April 27. Exceptions were made for those on medical visas—who were granted an extension until April 29—as well as individuals with diplomatic, official, and long-term visas.
The decision is part of India’s broader diplomatic and security response to Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism. Indian authorities have also issued a strong advisory urging citizens to avoid travel to Pakistan and recommending the swift return of those already there.
“Many Pakistani nationals have also left via connecting flights through third countries like Dubai, due to the absence of direct air connectivity,” a senior official noted, adding that more departures are expected as law enforcement continues to identify Pakistani nationals across the country.
A nationwide verification campaign is currently underway in coordination with central intelligence agencies. Officials have warned that any Pakistani citizen remaining in India past the designated deadlines will be deemed to be staying illegally and face strict legal action.