Hey travel buddies! I’m so excited that you’re considering Pakistan as your next travel destination! Trust me, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Lahore, hiking the majestic mountains of Hunza, or soaking in the rich history and culture, there’s something for everyone in Pakistan.
Now, I know the one thing that might be standing in your way right now is the Pakistan visa. Don’t worry though—applying for a Pakistan tourist visa online is much simpler than it used to be!
Gone are the days of long lines and complicated paperwork. With the Pakistan eVisa system, the entire process has become super convenient, and you can apply from the comfort of your home.
As someone who calls Pakistan home and loves welcoming travelers worldwide, I’ve gathered all the information you need to make your visa application process smooth and stress-free.
While I’ve never needed a visa myself, I’ve done the homework, so you don’t have to!
Whether you’re from the US., UK., or any other country, I’ll guide you through everything—from the Pakistan tourist visa price to how to apply for Pakistan visa online. I promise it’s easier than you think!
Let’s get you all set up for your upcoming adventure in Pakistan! Here’s what you need to know.
Step 1: Do You Need a Visa for Pakistan?
Before we dive into the application process, let’s clear up the first question on your mind: do you need a visa to visit Pakistan?
The short answer is Yes unless you’re from a country that’s eligible for visa-on-arrival. However, most of us will need to apply in advance.
- Visa-on-Arrival: Citizens of certain countries (including some Middle Eastern countries and Turkey) can apply for a visa-on-arrival when they land in Pakistan. This means you don’t need to get a visa beforehand, and you can take care of it right when you land at the airport. Most of the foreign tourists, including those traveling from the U.S., U.K., and other countries, we’ll need to apply for a Pakistan visa online or onsite before our trip.Â
Note: GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates UAE, don’t require visa on arrival.Â
- Pakistan eVisa: Here’s the good news! Pakistan has introduced an online visa system, making it much easier to get your visa without needing to visit an embassy. If you’re traveling from countries like the U.S., U.K., or others that aren’t eligible for visa-on-arrival, you can simply apply for Pakistan visa online and get approved without any hassle.
Step 2: How to Apply for Pakistan Tourist Visa Online
Now, the exciting part—getting your visa! The Pakistan eVisa system is super simple to use, and in just a few steps, you can get your visa all set up. Here’s how I did it, and it was smooth sailing:
- Visit the Official Website: The first step is to visit the official NADRA website (visa.nadra.gov.pk). This is where all the magic happens! You’ll find the application form and all the details you need to apply for your Pakistan tourist visa online.
- Fill Out the Application Form: The form is easy to fill out, and you’ll need to provide some basic details, like your full name, passport number, nationality, and the dates you’re planning to travel. The form is quite intuitive, so don’t worry—you’ll be able to complete it in no time.
- Upload Required Documents: To process your visa, you’ll need to upload a few important documents:
- A clear, scanned copy of your passport.
- Visa Application-Photograph capturing guidelines.
- File Size: Photographs must not exceed 350KB.
- Submission Requirements: The NADRA guide outlines various technical specifications and quality standards that the photographs must meet to be accepted by approved authorities.
- Proof of your travel plans—this could be flight bookings or hotel reservations in Pakistan. Don’t stress, these are easy to get, and they help support your application.
- Pay the Visa Fee: After preparing your application, the next step is to pay the visa fee, which differs based on your nationality and the type of visa.
- Wait for Approval: After submission, the approval usually takes about 5 to 7 business days. The great thing about the Pakistan eVisa process is that you can check your visa status online, and they’ll notify you when your visa is approved.
- Print Your eVisa: Once you get your approval email, you’ll need to print your Pakistan tourist visa. You’ll need to present this at the immigration counter when you land in Pakistan, so don’t forget to bring a hard copy with you.
Step 3: How Long Does It Take to Get Your Visa?
I know you’re probably wondering how long the whole process will take. The Pakistan visa online system is pretty efficient.
Once you have applied for a Pakistani visa, you will probably receive the approval in about 6 days. It’s best to apply a couple of weeks before your trip, just in case, but the whole process is usually pretty fast!
Step 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes that can delay or even mess up your visa application. Here’s what recommend avoiding:
- Incorrect Information: Double-check everything! A typo in your name or passport number can cause issues. I made this mistake once with my passport details, and it took a little extra time to get it fixed.
- Expired Passport: Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. Don’t forget to check the expiration date!
- Missing Documents: Make sure you’ve uploaded all the required documents—especially your passport photo and proof of accommodation. If any document is missing or unclear, your visa could be delayed or rejected.
- Wrong Photo Specifications: The photo requirements are pretty strict, so make sure your passport-sized photo meets all the guidelines. No creative selfies—just a simple, clear shot!
Step 5: What Happens if You Need to Extend Your Stay?
Plans change sometimes, right? If you’re having such a great time that you decide to extend your stay in Pakistan, don’t worry—you can do that too! Here’s how:
- You can apply for a visa extension while you’re in Pakistan at the local immigration office.
- Alternatively, you can apply online before your visa expires to extend your stay. The process is pretty easy, but make sure to do it ahead of time so you don’t run into any last-minute issues.
Step 6: What’s the Cost of a Pakistan Tourist Visa?
As I mentioned earlier, the Pakistan tourist visa price can vary depending on the duration of your stay and your nationality. On average, it’s around $50 to $100.
It’s a pretty affordable visa considering how much you’ll get to experience in Pakistan—mountain treks, rich culture, delicious food, and more!
For instance, a 3-month single-entry tourist visa for Pakistan costs $60 for UK and USA citizens, while most European nationals pay $35 for the same duration.
Generally, the fee ranges from $50 to $100, depending on your nationality and the length of your stay. Payment is simple and can be made using a credit or debit card through the online portal.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it! The process of applying for a Pakistan visa online is fairly straightforward once you know what to expect. I hope this guide makes the process easier for you, and I’m confident you’ll be holding that Pakistan tourist visa in no time!
From the moment you land in Pakistan to the breathtaking sites you’ll visit, I know you’re going to have an amazing experience.
Just remember to apply for your visa well in advance, double-check your documents, and prepare for one of the most incredible journeys of your life.
Let me know if you have any questions—I’m here to help! Safe travels, and I can’t wait to hear all about your adventures in Pakistan!