KABUL: Afghan nationals are reportedly paying up to $1,800 to obtain Pakistani visas through illegal intermediaries as delays persist in the official visa processing system, according to findings from a recent investigation.
The report indicates that high demand, limited appointment availability and procedural backlogs have created opportunities for unauthorized agents to charge substantial sums for facilitating visa approvals.
Applicants interviewed as part of the investigation said they were asked to make payments ranging from several hundred to $1,800 to secure timely visa issuance. The payments were allegedly made outside official banking channels.
Pakistani authorities have previously stated that all visa applications must be submitted through designated online portals and processed strictly in accordance with established regulations. Officials have warned applicants against using unauthorized agents or third parties.
The Interior Ministry has reiterated that visa fees are fixed and publicly listed, and any additional charges demanded by intermediaries are illegal.
Authorities in both Pakistan and Afghanistan have been working to regulate cross-border travel and prevent misuse of the visa system. No official statement was immediately available regarding the specific allegations raised in the investigation.
Officials have advised applicants to rely only on official platforms and report suspected fraud to relevant authorities.
