Jobaaj Stories
Pakistani Entrepreneur's Visa-Free Mumbai Layover: A Viral Story
Pakistani entrepreneur Waqas Hassan recently made headlines (and went viral on Instagram) after sharing his experience transiting through Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport without an Indian visa. His journey, from Singapore to Saudi Arabia with a six-hour layover in Mumbai on an IndiGo flight, highlights a lesser-known travel loophole for Pakistani nationals.
How a Pakistani Can Transit Through India
While a Pakistani visa typically requires extensive paperwork and a lengthy approval process, transit through Indian airports is possible without a visa—provided the traveler remains airside. Hassan's video, titled "I travelled to India on a Pakistani passport," brought this option to light. He emphasized the importance of booking a single-ticket itinerary (not self check-in) to ensure a smooth transit.
Hassan's Mumbai Airport Experience
During his six-hour stopover, Hassan explored the airport lounge, purchased souvenirs, and even sampled the iconic Mumbai street food, vada pav. He described the experience as "pretty fun," noting that even the Indian immigration officers were surprised to see a Pakistani passport in their transit area, as such transits are incredibly rare.
The Social Media Buzz
Hassan's Instagram video quickly amassed over 800,000 views, generating considerable discussion. Many comments expressed surprise at the possibility and hope for eased travel restrictions between India and Pakistan. The video sparked conversations on both sides of the border, highlighting the complexities and unique situations that arise from geopolitical realities.
Key Takeaway
Waqas Hassan's journey demonstrates that while travel between India and Pakistan remains challenging, there are legal avenues available for transit. His experience has shed light on this underutilized travel option for Pakistani citizens, raising awareness of a potential solution for those traveling between East and West Asia.
