🇵🇰 Pakistan visa requirements

Pakistani passport gets you 30 days on arrival. Almost nobody else does.

Who gets to walk in visa-free (and who doesn't)

Most Westerners need a visa for Pakistan. Think US, Canada, UK, Australia, and most EU countries. You'll apply through an embassy or consulate before you travel. The process usually involves an application form, photos, and proof of funds. Expect it to take a few weeks.

Some nationalities get a visa on arrival for 30 days. This includes citizens of Indonesia, Turkey, and Malaysia. These are typically for tourism. If you're from a country not on either of those lists, you absolutely need to sort your visa beforehand. Don't assume anything here; check the official Pakistan government immigration website.

How long can you actually stay?

Standard tourist visas grant you 30 days in Pakistan. Some nationalities might get longer on arrival, but 30 days is the common limit for most. The clock starts ticking the moment you enter. What people often miss are the exit stamps and double-entry rules. If you leave Pakistan and want to come back quickly, you might hit a snag. The rules aren't always crystal clear on re-entry frequency.

Overstaying your visa is where things get serious. The penalties vary, but expect fines and potential detention. A common fine is around PKR 500 per day, but this can escalate. More importantly, an overstay can make future entry into Pakistan very difficult, if not impossible. Always track your days and ensure you have an exit stamp from immigration before you leave.

Working remotely on a tourist visa: The grey zone

Can you work remotely on a tourist visa in Pakistan? Technically, no. Most tourist visas prohibit employment or business activities. However, the reality on the ground is different. Immigration officials are generally more concerned with you leaving on time and not causing trouble. They aren't usually checking your laptop for work files.

That said, it’s a legal grey area. If you're asked directly by immigration about your purpose of stay, don't mention work. Stick to tourism or visiting family. The enforcement is inconsistent. Some nomads have worked for months without issue. Others have faced scrutiny at the border. Don't rely on this being a permanent loophole. If you plan a long stay and intend to work, you should investigate specific business or remote work visa options, though these are less common and more complex for Pakistan.

What’s new with Pakistan’s visas?

Pakistan has been trying to streamline its visa process. They rolled out an eVisa system for certain nationalities. This is a game-changer if you qualify, significantly reducing the need to visit an embassy. Check the official eVisa portal to see if your passport is eligible. Fees have also seen some adjustments, with the eVisa typically costing around $35-$50 USD for a 30-day stay.

There have been occasional suspensions or changes to visa policies, especially concerning certain border crossings or specific nationalities. It's wise to check the latest announcements from the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports before booking flights. Things can change with little notice. Always aim for the most up-to-date information directly from official sources.