Resumption of Visa Services Between Pakistan and Sweden
Sweden has officially resumed its visa services in Islamabad, marking a significant development in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. The Foreign Office announced on Monday that starting July 7, 2025, Pakistani nationals will be able to apply for Schengen visas locally to visit Sweden for up to 90 days. This decision ends a two-year suspension of visa services that began in April 2023 when Sweden closed its embassy in Islamabad due to security concerns.
The embassy had fully reopened earlier this year in April, but the resumption of visa services came after recent discussions between the foreign ministries of Sweden and Pakistan. These talks took place in Stockholm on July 2, during which Sweden confirmed its intention to restart visa processing in Pakistan. The meeting highlighted the importance both nations place on maintaining strong diplomatic ties and facilitating smoother travel for their citizens.
The Pakistani delegation was led by the Additional Foreign Secretary for Europe, while the Swedish side was represented by the Director General for Global Affairs. Their discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and addressing key issues related to diplomatic and consular relations. The Foreign Office welcomed the resumption of visa services, describing it as a positive step toward enhancing mutual understanding and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
Before the closure of the embassy, there were no local avenues for handling visa requests or document deliveries in Pakistan. Sweden had taken this measure to ensure the safety of its staff and applicants, particularly in light of the challenging security environment. However, the current move is seen as a response to improved conditions and a renewed commitment to supporting diplomatic engagement.
This development not only simplifies the process for Pakistani travelers seeking to visit Sweden but also reflects a broader trend of improving relations between the two countries. The resumption of visa services is expected to encourage more cultural, educational, and business exchanges between Pakistan and Sweden.
In addition to making travel easier, the decision is likely to have a positive impact on the tourism sector and people-to-people interactions. Many hope that this positive trend continues, leading to further collaboration in areas such as trade, education, and technology.
Overall, the resumption of visa services marks a milestone in the evolving relationship between Pakistan and Sweden. It signals a commitment from both sides to strengthen their partnership and create opportunities for future cooperation. As the two nations continue to work together, they are likely to explore new ways to enhance their diplomatic and economic ties.