Pakistan Visa Requirements for Pakistan Citizens

FAQs

1. Can I apply for a Pakistani visa online from the USA?

   Yes, you may apply for a Pakistan visa online from the United States. Pakistan offers an eVisa service to nationals of various countries, including the United States. You can apply for a visa through GVC officials.

   This is how you do it:

   1. Visit the GVC website: Visit the official website for the eVisa application.
   2. Create an account. You will need to sign up and create an account.
   3. Fill out this application: Fill out the essential fields, including personal and travel information.
   4. Upload the essential documents: This usually includes your passport, a current picture, and any other supporting papers.
   5. Pay the fees: You may pay the Visa charge online with a credit card.
   6. Wait for processing. The processing time will vary, however you will often receive an update via email.

   Once accepted, you will be issued an eVisa that you may print and use to go to Pakistan. Always verify the most recent criteria and processing timeframes, since they might change.

2. Can I Apply for a Pakistani Visa if I Have an Expired Passport?

   No, Pakistani visa applications require a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in the country. If your passport has expired, you must first renew it through your country's passport services before proceeding with any visa application process.

   While temporary travel documents might be accepted in rare and exceptional circumstances, these cases are highly specific and subject to strict conditions. The standard requirement remains a valid passport with sufficient validity period to cover your entire planned visit plus six additional months.

3. What's the Process for Obtaining a Student Visa to Pakistan?

   Obtaining a student visa for Pakistan requires several essential steps, beginning with gathering required documentation including a valid passport, recent photographs, an admission letter from a recognized Pakistani educational institution, a No Objection Certificate from the Higher Education Commission, and proof of financial support for your stay.

   Applications must be submitted through the official Pakistan Online Visa System, where you'll create an account, complete the necessary forms, upload documents, and pay the application fee using a MasterCard or Visa card. The standard processing time is approximately four weeks, though this may vary based on application completeness and embassy workload. Once approved, you can collect your visa from the embassy or consulate where you initially applied.

4. Are There Special Visa Provisions for Journalists Visiting Pakistan?

   Yes, Pakistan offers specialized visa provisions for journalists that streamline their professional activities while ensuring regulatory compliance. Journalists from both local and international media organizations can apply for these visas with proper documentation, including a valid passport with minimum six-month validity, recent photographs, an official letter from their media agency, and a recommendation from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting or Press Attaché.

   The journalist visa typically grants international correspondents a 3-month stay, while Pakistan-based accredited journalists may receive extended validity periods. It's important to note that certain areas deemed sensitive may have access restrictions, and all journalists must adhere to local laws while conducting their reporting activities.

5. What are the specific requirements for a tourist visa to Pakistan?

   Applying for a tourist visa to Pakistan involves meeting specific requirements to ensure a smooth application process. 

   First and foremost, applicants must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages for visa stamps. A completed visa application form, which can be accessed online or at the Pakistan embassy, is mandatory. Two recent passport-sized photographs with a white background are required as part of the documentation. Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host in Pakistan, along with the host’s CNIC (if applicable), is also necessary. Applicants must provide a round-trip flight itinerary and bank statements for the last three to six months to demonstrate financial stability. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is recommended, and the visa fee must be paid, with the receipt included in the application. 

   Some nationalities may need additional documents, such as a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or security clearances, depending on their country of residence. Pakistan also offers an eVisa service for eligible countries, allowing applicants to apply online by uploading scanned documents. 

   The visa processing time typically takes 7 to 10 business days but may vary. It’s always best to check the specific requirements for your nationality through the official Pakistan Visa Portal or the nearest embassy to avoid any discrepancies.

6. How can I get to Hunza Valley from Islamabad?

   Traveling from Islamabad to the Hunza Valley is an exciting journey with beautiful views. The main routes to go to Hunza Valley are as follows:

   By Road, which offers the most scenic views

   Travelers most often choose to drive from Islamabad to Hunza, which offers breathtaking vistas along the Karakoram Highway (KKH). What you should know is as follows:

   • Distance: Approximately 600 kilometers (370 miles).
   • Depending on breaks and road conditions, the trip should take 12 to 15 hours.
   • Route: Use the Karakoram Highway to travel from Islamabad to Abbottabad to Mansehra, Naran, Chilis, Gilgit, and Hunza.
   • The KKH, which travels through breathtaking mountain ranges, is regarded as one of the world's most picturesque highways.

   By Air (Fastest Option)

   Flying to Gilgit and then continuing to Hunza is the quickest way to reach the valley:

   Take a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit.

   • Airline: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers flights.
   • Flight Duration: About 1 hour.
   • Note: Flights are highly dependent on weather conditions and may be canceled in case of poor visibility.

   By Tour Operators in Private

   There are several planned excursions to the Hunza Valley offered by Islamabad tourist agencies. Usually, these bundles consist of:

   • Transit (bus or private car).
   • Lodging in Hunza.
   • Guided excursions to important sites such as Attabad Lake, Altit Fort, and Baltit Fort.
7. What are the must-see historical sites in Lahore?

   Lahore, a city steeped in culture and history, is home to many of Pakistan's most famous historical landmarks. Here are some must-see spots when visiting the city:

   • Lahore Fort (Shahi Qila),

   Lahore Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of Mughal architecture. It goes back to the 11th century but underwent substantial renovations during the Mughal Empire.

   Key features: The fort is home to various spectacular monuments, including the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), Naulakha Pavilion, and Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience).

   • Badshahi Mosque

   Badshah Mosque Lahore is regarded one of Pakistan's most important historical sites. It represents the pinnacle of exquisite Mughal architecture and design. Built about 1673, it is Pakistan's second-largest mosque. Lahore boasts some of the most well-known architects.

   The building is made of red sandstone carvings that were heavily inspired by Indo-Greek architecture and style. The marble floors and attention to detail on the walls enhance the elegance of the space. Every day, hundreds of people come in the majestic mosque to worship. You can visit the mosque every day from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

   • Ali Hajvery’s Tomb

   The tomb of Ali Hajvery is the second most well-known historical site on our list. Make an effort to visit this location if you are curious about Sufism and the Sufi saints of Lahore.

   Ali Hajveri, who lived in Lahore until the eleventh century, is said to have been a well-known Sufi saint of the subcontinent. Both Muslims and non-Muslims were among his disciples. Lahore offers a wide variety of activities. Hundreds of people visit the grave every day, placing flowers beside it, praying, and donating money.

   • Samadhi of Ranjit Singh

   This 18th-century structure houses the burial urns of Ranjit Singh, a Sikh monarch who passed away in 1839. The samadhi is situated adjacent to the well-known Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort. The structure is the pinnacle of Sikh, Islamic, and Hindu design, architecture, symbolism, and themes. The structure is made up of cupolas and gilded fluted domes.

   A doorway on the building's front side is embellished with pictures of Brahma, Devi, and Ganesh. The walls are lavishly painted with flowery patterns, while the ceiling's wooden panels are embellished with stained glass work. Glass mosaics are used to embellish the ceilings. 

   • Miani Sahib Graveyard

   Ranjit Singh, the Sikh monarch who died in 1839, is buried in funeral urns in this 18th-century structure. The renowned Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort are also close to the Samadhi. Hindu, Islamic, and Sikh architecture, design, symbolism, and themes are all perfectly embodied in the edifice. Cupolas and gilded fluted domes make up the structure.

   The figures of Ganesh, Devi, and Brahma adorn the gateway on the front side of the structure. The ceiling's hardwood panels are embellished with stained glass, while the walls are lavishly painted with flowery patterns. There is glass mosaic work on the ceilings. 

8. Can I travel to Pakistan with expired Nadra card?

   Traveling to Pakistan with an expired NADRA card is a concern for many expatriates. While it is technically possible to enter Pakistan with an expired card, there are specific conditions and procedures to follow.

   If you arrive in Pakistan with an expired NICOP, you may be eligible for a 72-hour landing permit. This permit allows you to stay temporarily while you arrange for the renewal of your identity card. 

   To avoid complications, it’s advisable to renew your NICOP before traveling. The renewal process can be conveniently done online through the NADRA Registration Centre's website. You will need to fill out an application form, upload necessary documents such as your expired NICOP and proof of identity, and pay the renewal fee.

   For those who find themselves in a last-minute situation—perhaps realizing their NADRA card has expired just before their flight—there's no need to panic. The NADRA Registration Centre offers expedited services that can help. They provide a submission letter that serves as proof of your application for renewal, which can be used alongside your expired NICOP when traveling.

   In summary, while traveling with an expired NADRA card is possible, it comes with certain risks and limitations. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it’s best to renew your NADRA ahead of time or utilize expedited services if you're in a bind. This way, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that your identification is in order.

9. Can I travel to Pakistan with expired NICOP?

   Traveling to Pakistan with an expired NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) is a concern for many expatriates. Fortunately, a NICOP that has expired can still be used to enter Pakistan, but there are some steps and things to bear in mind.

   When arriving in Pakistan with an expired NICOP, you may be eligible for a 72-hour landing permit. This permit allows you to stay temporarily while you arrange for the renewal of your NICOP. However, it's crucial to have proof of your application for renewal or relevant documentation to present at immigration. 

   The NADRA Registration Centre offers urgent renewal services that can be incredibly helpful. They provide a submission letter that serves as proof of your renewal application, which can be presented alongside your expired NICOP at the airport.

   The process for renewing your NICOP is straightforward and can be done online. You simply need to fill out an application form on the NADRA website, upload necessary documents such as your expired NICOP and proof of identity, and pay the renewal fee. The processing time is generally quick, allowing you to receive your new NICOP in a timely manner.

   Although it is possible to travel with a NICOP that has expired, it is usually preferable to renew it before your trip. In addition to guaranteeing adherence to laws, this offers you comfort when traveling.

10. How long does it take to process a Pakistani visa for US citizens?

    The processing time for a Pakistani visa for US citizens depends on the type of visa and the method of application. 

    If you apply for an eVisa through GVC, the process typically takes place within 5 business days after applying. This option allows candidates to provide necessary documents from the comfort of their home. These documents include a valid US passport, passport-sized pictures, and evidence of travel or lodging.

    For those applying through a Pakistani embassy or consulate, processing times can range from 10 to 15 business days. The exact duration depends on the volume of applications and other factors.

    Additionally, applicants should note that some visa types, such as extensions or specific visa types such as business visas, may have different processing times but still fall within the general range mentioned above. To facilitate a smooth application process, you should apply well in advance of your intended travel date and keep an eye out for any updates regarding visa processing times from official sources.