ISLAMABAD – In a recent statement, Pakistan’s Minister of State for Law and Justice, Barrister Aqeel Malik, dismissed concerns about any impending travel restrictions on Pakistan by the United States. In an exclusive interview with Samaa on March 20, 2025, Malik stated emphatically, "No such ban is being imposed... [the US government] is currently reviewing its visa policies as part of broader efforts to strengthen border security and enhance national security."
The minister's comments come against a backdrop of rising anxieties regarding potential visa restrictions on Pakistan amid a broad reevaluation of U.S. immigration policies under President Donald Trump. Malik asserted that the United States is not targeting Pakistan specifically with these considerations. He pointed out that the U.S. State Department had also clarified that no country is currently facing an indiscriminate visa ban. "Just like other countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which have recently tightened their visa policies, Pakistan is also navigating through these international trends in immigration control," he added.
A profound sense of reassurance from Pakistani officials emerged as they highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagements with U.S. authorities. This proactive stance aims to safeguard Pakistan’s interests amid the evolving visa framework. The atmosphere of uncertainty was magnified by a viral list circulating on social media, reportedly identifying Pakistan among nations that would face travel restrictions. Despite the panic it generated, Malik's assertions reaffirmed that such a ban remains unfounded.
In step with Malik's statement, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce addressed the media on March 17, 2025. She clarified, "First of all, there is no list," dispelling claims of an imminent travel ban and emphasizing that what is under review is not any officially designated group of countries. She further explained, "The discussions currently taking place about visa issuances are not targeting any specific nations." Her remarks were made to counter recent speculation and provide clarity surrounding the U.S. administration's recent adjustments to its immigration policy.
It is essential to underline that concerns about travel restrictions have been exacerbated by reports, not sanctioned by official channels. As Bruce noted, "what’s being looked at over the last couple of days does not involve any preexisting list," reinforcing transparency amidst unfolding discussions.
Ongoing communications have also taken place in Islamabad, where Pakistani officials convened to further discuss consular issues with U.S. diplomats. On March 19, 2025, Pakistan and the United States held discussions led by Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and attended by U.S. Charge d’Affaires Mrs. Natalie A Baker, and key officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Although details from the meeting were not fully disclosed, it marks the second dialogue of its kind within a week, aiming not only to address consular issues but also to strengthen bilateral relations in various domains such as trade and counterterrorism. Previously, on March 11, officials discussed various mutual interests, including enhancing economic trade ties and collaborative efforts in security.
With heightened inquiries regarding visa issuances, it was noted that the Pakistan government is keen to ensure facilitation for its citizens aiming to travel to the U.S. Following reports that suggested Pakistan could face a partial suspension of U.S. visa issuance—conditioned on addressing specific deficiencies—officials indicated plans to respectively raise the matter during their ongoing negotiations.
It bears mentioning that as the Trump administration focuses on reassessing its immigration-related executive orders, apprehensions have emanated concerning illegal immigration. As a part of these efforts, several Pakistani nationals have faced deportation from the U.S. Recently, Pakistani officials have highlighted the ongoing nature of deportations from various countries, further complicating the narrative.
With the U.S. State Department rejecting speculation concerning any travel ban, it emphasizes a commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with Pakistan as both nations navigate complex immigration discussions. An unidentified official remarked, "It was a routine consultation where consular issues like passports and visas were also discussed," reiterating the importance of collaboration moving forward.
In summary, while apprehensions regarding travel restrictions loom due to evolving political climates, officials from both Pakistan and the U.S. appear determined to ensure that their diplomatic ties and dialogue remain intact. With these ongoing assessments, it remains crucial for citizens and stakeholders to stay updated on future developments as both governments seek to balance national security with mobility and bicommunal relations.
