India and Pakistan relax visa rules

India and Pakistan decided on October 14 to mutually relax visa rules in what government representatives are dubbing "a new era of bilateral relations." 

Both countries have long upheld inordinately strict visa regimes with lengthy procedures, due to terrorist incidents and historical suspicion and hostility. 

This second meeting of The Joint Working Group (JWG) of both countries took place in New Delhi to finalize the draft of the new visa regime; this includes permitting visits to more than three cities in each country at a time, plus a 36-hour transit visa for business travelers. 

Business travelers certified by national trade organizations will be able to apply for multiple entry visas of up to one year, as well.

The meeting was held between India's foreign division of its Home Ministry, led by Anil Goswami, and their Pakistani counterparts, led by Nasar Hayat.

Both parties approved the draft which is now waiting approval from their respective governments.

Other proposals include group tourism for up to 30 days, but with a condition that such travel be conducted by registered travel agents and the group is not more than 10 people.  

More flexibility on the mode of travel was also agreed upon, as currently rules in Pakistan make travelers use the same transport both ways. 

There will also be a new six-month visa for social visits (maximum three weeks at a time) and a new one-year visa for senior citizens and couples married across the border with children aged under 18.