Pakistan e-Visa Guide 2026: Rules for Foreign Visitors
Essential entry guidelines for foreign tourists, business travelers, and transit visitors to Pakistan: Online application via visa.nadra.gov.pk, VPA scheme suspension rules, processing times, and scam alerts.
How to Check or Verify: Pakistan e-Visa & Entry Requirements 2026
Effective January 1, 2026, Pakistan suspended its free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) scheme. Foreign tourists must apply online prior to travel through the official government portal (visa.nadra.gov.pk). Processing takes 7–10 business days. Tourist, Business, and Transit e-Visas are available, with fees varying by nationality.
Suspension of Free "Visa Prior to Arrival" (VPA) Scheme
Foreign travelers must note that the previous free 48-hour automated Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) system (formerly applicable to 126 nationalities) was OFFICIALLY SUSPENDED on January 1, 2026.
All foreign passport holders must now obtain an issued electronic visa (e-Visa) BEFORE boarding their flight to Pakistan. Do not travel relying on outdated blogs claiming free visa on arrival exists.
Scam Warning: Only Use the Official Government Portal
Multiple third-party commercial websites mimic official government portals, charging excessive fees or issuing fraudulent visas. The Government of Pakistan officially advises:
* Note: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and DGIP have explicitly declared they have NO collaboration with any private agency or third-party visa processing website.
Pakistan e-Visa Categories, Stay Durations & Fees
Visa fees vary by nationality based on bilateral reciprocal agreements.
1. Tourist e-Visa
Most CommonIssued for tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends, and cultural trips.
- Validity: 3 Months to 1 Year
- Allowed Stay: 30 to 90 Days
- Fee Range: ~$5 to $60 USD (varies by passport)
- Processing Time: 7–10 Business Days
2. Business e-Visa
CommercialIssued to business executives, trade delegates, and investors.
- Validity: Up to 5 Years (Multiple Entry)
- Allowed Stay: 30 to 90 Days per visit
- Fee Range: ~$25 to $120 USD
- Processing Time: 7–10 Business Days
3. Transit e-Visa
Short StayIssued for international passengers changing flights in Pakistan.
- Validity: Single Entry
- Allowed Stay: Up to 72 Hours
- Fee Range: ~$5 to $20 USD
- Processing Time: 3–5 Business Days
Step-by-Step Pakistan e-Visa Online Application Procedure
How foreign nationals apply via the official visa.nadra.gov.pk portal.
Create Account on Official Government Portal
Visit the official portal visa.nadra.gov.pk, register a personal account, and verify your email address. Never use third-party intermediary websites.
Select Visa Category & Entry Type
Choose your visa category (Tourist, Business, Transit) and entry preference (Single Entry or Multiple Entry).
Complete Online Application Form
Fill in passport details, contact information, travel itinerary, flight details, and Pakistani host/hotel address accurately.
Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of your passport valid for >6 months, recent passport-size photograph (white background), hotel booking/invitation letter, and return flight itinerary.
Pay e-Visa Fee Online
Pay the applicable visa fee using an international credit or debit card (Visa/Mastercard). Fees vary by nationality and visa type.
Receive & Print Approved e-Visa PDF
Upon approval (7–10 business days), download the electronic visa grant notice (PDF) sent to your email, print a copy, and carry it with your passport.
Exemptions & Dual Citizenship Provisions
Chinese Passport Holders (Visa-Free)
Under current bilateral agreements, citizens of the People's Republic of China holding ordinary passports are granted visa-free entry for up to 30 days.
NICOP & POC Holders (Dual Nationals)
Foreign passport holders of Pakistani origin who possess a valid NICOP or POC card do not require an e-Visa and enter visa-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do foreign nationals need a visa to visit Pakistan in 2026?
Yes. As of 1 January 2026, Pakistan suspended its free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) scheme. Almost all foreign travelers must obtain an approved online e-Visa via the official portal (visa.nadra.gov.pk) before boarding their flight, unless exempt under specific bilateral treaties (such as Chinese passport holders for up to 30 days) or entering on a valid NICOP/POC card.
What is the official website for applying for a Pakistan e-Visa?
The ONLY official, government-authorized website for Pakistan online visa applications is visa.nadra.gov.pk. It is managed by NADRA in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGIP). Avoid third-party commercial agent sites.
How long does a Pakistan e-Visa take to process in 2026?
Standard Tourist and Business e-Visa applications take 7 to 10 business days to process. Applicants are strongly advised to apply at least 2 weeks before their intended travel date.
Is the Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) still free in 2026?
No. The free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) system that previously permitted citizens of 126 countries 48-hour automated entry authorization was suspended on 1 January 2026. All foreign tourists must now pay the standard e-Visa fee applicable to their nationality.
Can dual citizens with Pakistani origin travel without a foreign e-Visa?
Yes. Overseas Pakistanis holding a valid National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) or Pakistan Origin Card (POC) can enter Pakistan visa-free on their foreign passport by presenting their original NICOP/POC at airport immigration.
Applying for NICOP or POC Card Online?
If you are an overseas Pakistani or dual citizen, explore our dedicated guides for Pak-ID NICOP renewals, Zone A/B fee structures, and POC cards.