Bhubaneswar: A Pakistani woman, who had submitted her application to leave the country (exit permit) on Feb 25 following the expiry of her visitor visa, saw it approved on Friday amid the escalating tension between the two nations.
The 53-year-old Muslim woman kept visiting Bhubaneswar since marrying a local AC repairing workshop owner of the same religion in 2008. Sources said her long-term visa expired in 2024. Her subsequent applications for renewal of visa were rejected.
“She recently obtained a visitor visa, which expired in Feb. A few days before the visa’s expiry, she approached the foreigners’ registration office of the commissionerate police, applying for an exit permit. Her application was pending,” a senior police officer told TOI.
According to police sources, foreign nationals staying in India with different visa categories (such as tourist, employment and student) must obtain an exit permit if their visa has lapsed or if they have exceeded the authorised duration of stay. This document is essential for lawful departure from the country to avoid penalties or forced removal.
“We found that her intention was not to overstay illegally or secretly in Bhubaneswar. On her own, she chose the legal procedure to leave the country. She will not face any legal action. Her exit permit has been approved,” the police officer added.