Sweden reopens visa services in Pakistan, opening up a highly desired route for Pakistani nationals after a suspension that lasted more than one year.
The Swedish visa section, which closed down in April 2023 on the grounds of security, will resume processing applications from July 7, bringing new hope to those who want to travel to Sweden for short-term purposes.
The move followed high-level political talks in Stockholm between Pakistan and Swedish officials. The visiting Pakistani delegation was headed by the Additional Secretary for Foreign Affairs, while Sweden had its delegation led by the Director General for Global Affairs. Both parties considered how they could reinforce bilateral relations, with the visa services matter being the central theme.
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“From July 7, Pakistani nationals are eligible to apply for Sweden visas for 90-day visits,” the Foreign Office confirmed. The move, the spokesman said, reflects increasing Pakistan-Sweden ties and will be welcome news for many, particularly short-term visitors and students.
The April 2023 closure of the embassy had created massive disruption, especially for Pakistani students waiting to study in Swedish universities. The suspension had left most in limbo, with their education plans in limbo. The Pakistani Embassy in Sweden had previously pointed out the concern, stating, “Education is an important aspect of our longstanding relationship, and students bridge the two countries.”
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The Swedish embassy in Islamabad mentioned the security situation in Pakistan as the primary motive at the time of its closure. A message on its website stated, “The safety of our applicants and staff members is our highest priority.”
No information was provided regarding the particular threats, although most attributed the closure to international uproar over Quran desecration incidents in Sweden, which had created protests and tensions across the globe.
