How to Get a Visa to Pakistan
Pakistan is a country of breathtaking landscapes, ancient heritage sites, and emerging business opportunities. The visa process has become simpler in recent years thanks to the Pakistan Online Visa System (eVisa). Many travellers can now apply online instead of visiting an embassy.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply step by step.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa required:
Most foreign nationals — including citizens of Australia, UK, EU, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, India — need a visa to enter Pakistan. - Visa-free entry:
Only a few countries (e.g., Maldives, Nepal, Samoa) and holders of diplomatic passports have visa-free access. - Visa on arrival (VOA):
Citizens of some countries (including UAE, Turkey, Malaysia, and several others) may qualify for a Visa on Arrival, but it’s strongly recommended to apply online first.
✅ Check eligibility and apply online: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (eVisa) | Tourism, family visits | Up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months) |
| Business Visa | Meetings, trade, investment | Up to 5 years (multiple entry) |
| Family Visit Visa | Visiting Pakistani relatives | Up to 5 years (multiple entry) |
| Student Visa | Study at Pakistani universities | Duration of course |
| Work Visa | Employment with a Pakistani company | 1 year renewable |
| Transit Visa | Passing through Pakistan | Up to 72 hrs |
| Journalist Visa | Reporting/filming | Case-by-case approval |
3. Applying for a Pakistan eVisa (Most Common)
Step 1 — Apply Online
- Go to the Pakistan Online Visa System: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk
- Create an account and select the visa category (Tourist, Business, etc.).
- Fill in personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
Typically:
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond entry
- Passport-size photo (digital)
- Scan of passport bio page
- Flight booking or tentative itinerary
- Hotel booking or host invitation letter
- For business: invitation letter from Pakistani company
- For family visit: CNIC/NICOP of Pakistani relative
Step 3 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Fees vary by nationality and visa type:
- Tourist eVisa: USD $8–60
- Business eVisa: USD $100–250
- Pay securely online with credit/debit card.
Step 4 — Processing Time
- Tourist Visa: ~7–10 working days (sometimes faster).
- Business Visa: ~7–14 working days.
Step 5 — Receive Your eVisa
- You’ll receive an electronic visa PDF by email.
- Print it or keep a digital copy — present it at check-in and immigration.
4. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- Available for some travellers (e.g., citizens of Turkey, Malaysia, UAE, and some Western countries).
- Requirements:
- Return ticket
- Hotel booking or host details
- Sufficient funds
- Approval at entry is not guaranteed — better to apply for an eVisa in advance.
5. Long-Term & Special Visas
Work Visa
- Requires a job offer and approval from Pakistan’s Board of Investment (BOI) or Ministry of Interior.
- Apply online or through the Pakistani embassy.
Student Visa
- Requires an admission letter from a Pakistani educational institution.
- Proof of funds and security clearance required.
Family Visit Visa
- For relatives of Pakistani citizens or dual nationals.
- Requires proof of relationship (birth/marriage certificates, NICOP/CNIC copy).
Business Visa
- Easier for citizens of countries in Pakistan’s Business Friendly List (BVL).
- Requires invitation from a Pakistani company or BOI approval.
6. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa (single entry) | USD $8–60 |
| Tourist eVisa (multiple entry) | USD $20–90 |
| Business Visa | USD $100–250 |
| Family Visit Visa | USD $40–100 |
| Work Visa | USD $100–200 |
| Student Visa | USD $50–150 |
| Visa on Arrival | ~USD $50–100 |
Fees vary significantly by nationality — check the official portal before applying.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Use the official site: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk — avoid unofficial sites.
- Apply early: At least 2–3 weeks before your trip, longer for work or student visas.
- Check passport validity: Must be valid 6+ months beyond your stay.
- Print your eVisa: Airlines and border officers may ask for a paper copy.
- Provide clear documents: Blurry scans or missing information may delay approval.
- For family/business visas: Have invitation letters properly signed and with ID copies.
- Respect entry requirements: Some areas (like Kashmir and tribal regions) may require additional permits.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months after entry
- Approved eVisa PDF printed or saved
- Return or onward ticket
- Hotel booking or host invitation
- Proof of funds (if requested)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Additional permits (if visiting restricted regions)
✅ Bottom Line
For most travellers, Pakistan’s eVisa system makes visiting easy — apply online, pay the fee, and get approval within days. Business, family, and long-term stays require more documentation but are still mostly online.
Always use the official Pakistan Online Visa portal, apply early, and double-check requirements for your nationality and travel purpose.