How to Secure Your Pakistani Visa Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve decided to visit Pakistan! Along with this exciting decision comes the essential step of qualifying for and applying for a visa. You may have questions like, "Do I need a visa?", "How long will it take?", "Where’s the nearest embassy?", or "Do they speak English?" Rest assured, the process is simpler than it seems, and we’re here to guide you through it. With the Mad Hatters, your Pakistani tourism experience will be smooth and enjoyable!

Starting the Process

• Plan Your Visit:

  • Decide the best time to visit Pakistan based on the climate and your interests. The weather varies significantly across the country, impacting accessibility and activities. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the cities, while northern areas remain pleasant and can get quite cold at night. Winters in the mountains can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.

• Set Aside Time:

  • Allocate three months for the visa application process to avoid last-minute issues. While the average processing time is 1-2 weeks, it’s better to be prepared and allow extra time for any unexpected delays.

• Apply Online:

  • Most tourists opt for a 30-day, single-entry tourist e-visa. Although some nationalities can apply for a Visa on Arrival, we recommend securing your visa beforehand for a hassle-free experience.

Simple Steps to Apply:

1. Create an account and register yourself.

2. Fill out the online application.

3. Pay online.

4. Receive your visa!

Required Documents

For a smooth application process, gather these documents beforehand:

1. Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo.

2. Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.

3. Letter of Invitation (LOI) or hotel bookings: An LOI from a tourism company or an individual of Pakistani origin. In some cases, confirmed hotel bookings may suffice.

4. Detailed itinerary of your stay: Information about your travel plans, including places you intend to visit and accommodation details.

Eligibility

• Main Reference: NADRA:

  • Use NADRA’s resources to check if your country is eligible for E-Visa services. Citizens from over 179 countries can apply online. For those who cannot use the online services, here is a list of Pakistani embassies around the world.

• Letter of Invitation (LOI):

  • Everyone except Pakistani nationals and overseas Pakistanis (with non-resident NICOP or POC cards) needs an LOI. This can be obtained from a tourism company or an individual of Pakistani origin. We recommend using a tourism company for a smoother process.

Religious Tourism

If you’re visiting for religious purposes, you can apply for specific visas:

1. Tabligh Visa: For attending religious gatherings.

2. Missionary Visa: For missionary work.

3. Pilgrim Visa: For visiting sacred sites.

Pilgrim Visa for Sikh Tourists

Sikh travellers can apply for a pilgrim visa, which grants a single-entry visa for 45 days. Requirements include:

1. Foreign national of Indian origin

2. Proof of permanent residence in a country other than India

Online Application Process

The application process is divided into eight steps:

1. Visa Selection: Choose your visa category and type, including the nature of the visa required; single/multiple entry, duration, etc. Provide basic information regarding your travel documents. You can also apply for visa extensions if you are already in Pakistan.

2. Applicant Information: Fill in your biodata, contact details, residence, and nationality information.

3. Family Information: Provide basic information about your parents and any accompanying members.

4. Finances & Employment: Share details about your financial status and employment. If you have a bank account in Pakistan, you will need to provide that information.

5. Travel History: Provide information about your travel history over the past three years, including any visa refusals or criminal history.

6. Details of Intended Stay: Outline your stay’s duration, location, and itinerary. If you have a sponsor or any friends/family in Pakistan, you may also provide their references at this point.

7. Document Upload: Upload necessary documents like photos, passport scans, and proof of legal residence. Detailed guidelines regarding the specifications of the files that must be provided can be found on the NADRA website.

8. Payment: Pay online to begin processing your visa. Use the cost calculation tool on the visa portal to determine the fees based on your visa type and country of origin.

Monitoring Your Application

Track Your Status: Use the “Existing Applications” tab to check your application status. Be sure to check your inbox regularly for updates or additional information requests. If there are any objections to the application or additional information is required, a message will be posted in the portal.

Visa Extensions

Extend Your Stay: If you need to extend your stay, you can apply for a visa extension for up to six months. Ensure you have scans of your current visa, entry stamps, and proof of hotel reservations or an LOI.

Visa Processing Times

1. First-Time Entry Applicant: 7-10 working days.

2. Extension up to 6 months: 7-10 working days.

3. Extension > 6 months: 4 weeks.

For more details on the visa application process, Rove Trekkers are here to help you every step of the way!