Pakistan Visa Guide for Tourists 2025: e-Visa, On-Arrival, and Requirements

Good News: Pakistan Has Dramatically Simplified Tourism Visas

Pakistan has made visiting far easier than many travellers realize. The Pakistan e-Visa system launched in 2019 and has been expanded and improved significantly. As of 2025, citizens of 175+ countries can apply online without visiting an embassy. This guide walks you through every step.

e-Visa: The Easiest Option (Most Tourists)

The Pakistan e-Visa is a single-entry or multiple-entry tourist visa issued online through the official immigration portal. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days.

Who is Eligible?

Citizens of most countries including all EU nations, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, most of Southeast Asia, and many others. Check the official Pakistan immigration website for the current list, which is updated periodically.

Documents Required

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond your travel dates)
Passport-size photograph (digital, white background)
Hotel bookings or sponsor letter
Return flight tickets (or onward travel confirmation)
Bank statement or proof of funds
Travel itinerary

We provide a detailed support letter for all our booked clients, which greatly helps the visa application process.

e-Visa Cost

Tourist visa fees vary by nationality — typically USD 25–50 for single entry, USD 50–100 for multiple entry. Check the current fee on the Pakistan immigration portal at application time.

Visa on Arrival (VoA)

Citizens of select countries (including parts of SAARC nations, certain Gulf states, and others) may qualify for Visa on Arrival at Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore international airports. The process requires filling a form, paying the fee, and biometrics at the airport. This is generally straightforward but can take 30–60 minutes.

Countries That Don't Need a Visa

Citizens of Nepal and several other countries can enter Pakistan without a visa for tourism purposes (usually up to 30 days). Always verify current policy before travel.

Special Permits for Restricted Areas

If you're heading to the northern areas — Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, or trekking in restricted zones — you may need additional No Objection Certificates (NOCs) or trekking permits beyond your entry visa. These are separate from the tourism visa and must be arranged through a registered tour operator.

Wonderland Treks & Tours handles all permit acquisition for our clients, including NOCs for restricted areas and trekking permits for the Karakoram routes. This is included in all our trek and expedition packages.

Arriving at Pakistan Airports

Pakistan's main international gateways are:

Islamabad International Airport (ISB) — Most convenient for northern Pakistan and mountain adventures
Lahore (LHE) — Good for Punjab cultural tours
Karachi (KHI) — Pakistan's largest city and Sindh region

At immigration, e-Visa holders present their e-Visa confirmation email and passport. The officer will stamp your passport and take biometrics. The process is generally efficient.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Experience

Apply at least 3 weeks before travel (processing can sometimes take longer)
Have a complete travel itinerary — immigration officers appreciate this
Mention you're traveling with a registered tour operator (include our company details)
Carry printed copies of all documents, not just digital copies
Passport photos: bring physical prints too, not just digital

Need an Invitation Letter?

We provide official invitation letters and tour confirmation letters for all our clients, which support your visa application significantly. Contact us when booking any package and we'll provide all documentation needed.