What is the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme? Check List of SAARC Member Countries

The South Asian Regional Cooperation Association (SAARC) is an eight-member intergovernmental organization composed of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. SAARC was founded in 1985 to enhance regional cooperation and development in South Asia. The SAARC visa exemption program was formulated in 1992.

What is the SAARC visa waiver program?

The SAARC visa waiver program was introduced to allow travel between member countries to run smoothly by exempting certain categories of travelers from normal visa requirements. The plan is due to the recognition that free cross-border travel can greatly enhance cooperation, cultural exchanges and economic cooperation within the region.

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This program allows individuals with 24 combinations to move freely without a visa. They are members of parliament, judges of the High Court, senior government officials, businessmen, journalists, athletes and other VIPs. Member States grant these individuals the right to enter during the time-consuming visa application process by issuing special visa exemption tags.

Why is this plan important?

South Asia is a culturally diverse and economically promising region that has been plagued by political tensions and restricted travel policies in the past. The SAARC Visa Waiver Program is a bridge to move these barriers more easily and faster by ensuring that key stakeholders participating in regional discourse and growth.

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For example, entrepreneurs can make it easier to start business in new markets, journalists can report regional affairs in a timely manner, and athletes can easily compete in cross-border competitions. Therefore, the plan takes an important step to ensure people’s contact with people, thereby promoting peace, understanding and prosperity in South Asia.

Sarke Member States

The eight SAARC member states participating in the program are:

  1. Afghanistan
  2. Bangladesh
  3. Bhutan
  4. India
  5. Maldives
  6. Nepal
  7. Pakistan
  8. Sri Lanka

Each country issues visa stickers to qualified individuals in other member countries, usually valid for one year, allowing multiple entries.

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The SAARC visa waiver program is more than just a travel promotion tool; it shows the spirit of regional cooperation and mutual trust among South Asian countries. By relaxing travel to influential groups, it strengthens diplomatic ties, enhances economic interactions and cultivates cultural exchanges. As South Asia continues to grow and develop, such initiatives remain critical to shaping the future of connections and collaboration in the region.