Pakistan Visa 2026: Types, Fees and How to Apply Online
Getting a Pakistan visa in 2026 is mostly a straightforward online process. The system runs through the Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS) at visa.nadra.gov.pk, and since the free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) programme was suspended on 1 January 2026, most travellers now use the standard paid e-visa route. This guide, updated on 15 October 2026, explains the available visa types, fees by nationality, processing times and the exact steps to apply.
Pakistan Visa Types: Which Category Should You Choose?
The main visa categories cover almost every reason for visiting. The tourist visa is for sightseeing, family visits and leisure travel, while the business visa usually needs an invitation letter from a registered Pakistani company. Student and work visas are issued after confirmation from a university or employer, and there are separate categories for journalists, officials and diplomats. A transit e-visa, valid for 72 hours, suits travellers passing through Pakistani airports. Pick the category that matches your real purpose, because the wrong one is the most common reason for delays.
For detailed document lists tied to each category, see our visa requirements guide. Overseas Pakistanis travelling on a foreign passport should also read our NICOP guide, since a valid NICOP can simplify many travel formalities.
2026 Visa Fees by Nationality
How much does a Pakistan visa cost in 2026? There is no single figure, because fees work on reciprocity — you pay roughly what your country charges Pakistani citizens. As reported examples from 2026, a single-entry three-month tourist visa costs about USD 35 for EU citizens and about USD 60 for US, UK and Canadian citizens, while many South and Southeast Asian nationals pay from USD 20. Business visas sit higher, roughly USD 25 to USD 150 depending on duration and entries, and multiple-entry options up to one year and beyond one year cost more.
Some nationalities are fully fee-exempt for most categories, including Afghanistan, China, Japan, Malaysia, the UAE and Saudi Arabia (except work visas). All fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected, and the official portal calculates your exact fee before you pay. Never pay an agent who claims to “speed up” government processing.
How to Apply Online: Step by Step
To apply online, create an account on the official portal, choose your visa category and complete the application form carefully — every detail must match your passport. Then upload your documents, pay the visa fee by credit or debit card, and submit. Note your reference number and track the application through your account; once approved, you receive a Visa Grant Notice by email. Print it and carry it with your passport.
Travellers from 50 listed countries can also use the “Visa in Your Inbox” route: apply online 48 to 72 hours before travel, receive an electronic travel authorisation, and show it at immigration for the passport stamp. Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and the UAE get 30 days with multiple entries under this route.
Documents You Will Need
A typical application asks for a passport valid for at least six months, a recent biometric-style photograph, proof of accommodation (a confirmed hotel booking for your whole stay or a notarised invitation letter from a host), a travel itinerary with dates and destinations, and proof of funds such as recent bank statements. Business applicants need an invitation from a registered Pakistani company. Double-check your photo and statements before submitting — errors send you back to the start of the queue.
Processing Time and Tips to Avoid Delays
Standard processing time is 7 to 20 business days, with individual tourist entries often decided in 7 to 10 working days. Weekends and Pakistani public holidays do not count, so real-world waits can stretch to three or four calendar weeks in peak season. Apply at least four weeks before departure, and do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is approved. Note that each minor needs their own visa — a family cannot be filed as one application. Always use visa.nadra.gov.pk, the sole official portal.
FAQs
How long does a Pakistan visa take to process?
The standard e-visa takes 7 to 20 business days, with most tourist applications decided in 7 to 10 working days. Apply four to six weeks before travel to be safe.
How much is the Pakistan visa fee in 2026?
Around USD 35 for EU citizens and USD 60 for US, UK and Canadian citizens for a single-entry tourist visa. The exact fee depends on your nationality and visa type and is calculated on the official portal.
Can I get a Pakistan visa on arrival?
Most nationalities must arrange the visa in advance. Nationals of 50 listed countries can use the “Visa in Your Inbox” ETA route, applying online 48 to 72 hours before travel.
Is the Pakistan visa free for any nationality?
Yes — nationals of countries including Afghanistan, China, Japan, Malaysia, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are fee-exempt for most visa categories (work visas excepted).
How long is a Pakistan visa valid?
Visas are typically valid for entry for six months from the date of issue, and an unused visa lapses after that. The permitted stay per visit is usually 30 to 90 days depending on the category.
Sources: Wego Pakistan e-Visa guide 2026, Peaks of Pakistan guide. Visa rules change — always confirm the latest requirements on visa.nadra.gov.pk before applying.
Key Details: Pakistan Visa for Foreign Visitors
The Pakistan visa system has been liberalised to boost tourism — e-visas and visa-on-arrival for many nationalities. This section covers Pakistan visa online apply steps, Pakistan visit visa requirements, Pakistan visa fees 2026, and Pakistan e visa processing time.
Pakistan Visa Online Apply
Pakistan visa online apply through NADRA’s visa portal handles tourist, business and family-visit categories. Applicants upload a passport scan, photograph, invitation or hotel bookings, and supporting documents per category. The system is genuinely streamlined compared to the old embassy-only route — most straightforward tourist applications are decided without interviews.
Pakistan Visit Visa Requirements and Fees
Pakistan visit visa requirements centre on a valid passport (six-plus months), proof of funds, and travel plans. Pakistan visa fees 2026 vary by nationality and visa type, payable online during application. Pakistan e visa processing time is typically measured in days to a couple of weeks for complete applications — apply a month ahead to be safe, and double-check restricted areas requiring NOCs if travelling beyond tourist zones.
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