A Complete Guide to Visiting Pakistan: Different Types of Visas and How to Apply
Planning a trip to Pakistan? Whether you’re coming for its breathtaking mountains, rich cultural heritage, exciting business opportunities, or to reconnect with family, knowing which visa to apply for is the first step.
Understanding the right type of visa for your purpose can save you time and make your experience hassle-free.
This guide explains the different types of visas for visiting Pakistan and provides practical steps for applying for them.
1. Tourist Visa
If you’re traveling to Pakistan for tourism, sightseeing, or cultural exploration, the Tourist Visa is the best fit. Pakistan is home to iconic attractions such as the majestic Hunza Valley, the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro, and the bustling streets of Karachi.
What You Need to Know:
- Valid for short-term travel.
- It can be applied online through the Pakistan Online Visa System.
- Requires basic documents such as a passport copy, a recent photo, and proof of travel (e.g., a ticket or invitation letter).
How to Apply:
Simply visit Pakistan Online Visa, fill out the application form, upload your required documents, and pay the fee. You will receive a response within 5–7 working days.
2. Family Visit Visa
Reuniting with loved ones in Pakistan? The Family Visit Visa allows travelers to visit family members residing in Pakistan.
What You Need to Know:
- Best suited for individuals visiting immediate family.
- Requires a formal invitation from a family member in Pakistan.
- Typically valid for one month or longer, depending on the situation.
How to Apply:
Head over to Visa Categories, choose Family Visit Visa, and follow the instructions to complete your application. Documents like a copy of your passport, invitation letter, and CNIC (National ID) copy of your family member in Pakistan are essential.
3. Mountaineering and Trekking Visa
Adventure seekers, this one’s for you! For those eager to explore Pakistan’s renowned peaks—including K2 and Nanga Parbat—a specialized Mountaineering and Trekking Visa ensures you get access to these spectacular regions.
What You Need to Know:
- Specifically issued to climbers and trekkers.
- Requires confirmation of your trekking expedition or mountaineering schedule.
How to Apply:
Visit Tourist and Visit Visas and select the Mountaineering and Trekking option. Ensure you have relevant documents, such as your expedition schedule, passport, and itinerary.
4. Business Visa
Pakistan is becoming a growing hub for startups and businesses. The Business Visa is designed for entrepreneurs, investors, or individuals attending business meetings.
What You Need to Know:
- Can be used for attending meetings, exploring business opportunities, or investment purposes.
- Requires an invitation letter from a Pakistani business entity or proof of business activity.
How to Apply:
Visit Visa Categories and select the Business Visa option. Submit supporting documents such as a letter of recommendation from your company or a host business in Pakistan.
5. Religious Tourism Visa
Pakistan offers religious tourism visas for individuals seeking spiritual journeys, such as Sikh pilgrims visiting sacred sites like Gurdwara Darbar Sahib.
What You Need to Know:
- Designed for religious pilgrims and visitors.
- Includes facilitated entry for Sikh pilgrims under special agreements.
How to Apply:
Check out the Visa Prior to Arrival for Sikh Pilgrims section and follow the instructions for a smooth application process.
6. Study Visa
If you’re pursuing education in Pakistan, the Study Visa allows you to enroll in Pakistani educational institutions.
What You Need to Know:
- Requires proof of school/university enrollment.
- Typically provided to students for the duration of their studies.
How to Apply:
Submit your application through the Visa Categories portal, ensuring you include documents like an admission letter from your institution.
7. Work Visa
For professionals taking up jobs in Pakistan, the Work Visa facilitates employment opportunities.
What You Need to Know:
- Requires an employment contract from a Pakistani company.
- Valid for the duration of the employment contract.
How to Apply:
Start your application using the Visa Categories section. Then, submit your employment contract and other supporting documents.
8. Medical Visa
If your trip to Pakistan involves seeking medical treatment, the Medical Visa caters specifically to this need.
What You Need to Know:
- Requires documentation from the receiving medical institution in Pakistan.
- Short-term visa tailored for treatments or consultations.
How to Apply:
Follow the Medical Visa application process outlined in the Visa Categories section of the Pakistan Online Visa System.
Final Thoughts – Travel Made Simple
Pakistan offers a wide array of visa options to suit every travel purpose—you just need to pick the one that best suits your plan.
The right visa can ensure a smooth and enriching experience, from adrenaline-pumping treks to family reunions.
Make your application today and start planning your next adventure!
To begin, head to the Pakistan Online Visa System.
Your gateway to Pakistan awaits.