All U.S. citizens traveling to Pakistan must obtain a visa. For most travelers, the most efficient method is the Pakistan Electronic Visa (E-Visa). As of January 2026, Pakistan has suspended the traditional "Visa on Arrival" for most nationalities, making the E-Visa the only option for U.S. citizens to secure authorization before departure.
This guide details the specific requirements, fees, and procedures required for U.S. citizens to secure a Pakistan E-Visa accurately.
To ensure your application meets all government specifications, including host invitation letters and specific photo standards, you may choose to use an assisted service like iVisa for an expert review of your visa application.
On This Page
- Understanding the Pakistan E-Visa
- Do I Need a Pakistan E-Visa?
- Visa Types, Fees, and Stay Limits
- Application Methods: DIY vs. Assisted Service
- Authorized Ports of Entry
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Additional Pakistan Entry Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Understanding the Pakistan E-Visa
The Pakistan E-Visa is an official travel document issued by the Ministry of Interior through the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). It serves as a digital replacement for traditional embassy visas for tourism, business, and family visits. Once your application is approved, you will receive a Visa Grant Notice via email, which you must print and present at the border upon arrival to receive your entry stamp.
Do I Need a Pakistan E-Visa?
Yes, as a U.S. citizen, a visa is mandatory for entry. Pakistan has discontinued traditional visa processing at consulates for most visa categories, moving exclusively to the Pakistan Online Visa System.
You should apply for a Pakistan E-Visa if your purpose is:
- Tourism/Visit: Vacationing or sightseeing.
- Family Visit: Visiting relatives or friends residing in Pakistan.
- Business: Attending meetings, trade shows, or commercial activities.
Note: For specialized categories like Journalism, Missionary work, or NGOs, additional departmental clearances are required during the E-Visa process.
Visa Types, Fees, and Stay Limits
Pakistan offers several E-Visa categories. Fees for U.S. citizens are subject to reciprocity and specific processing requirements.
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay | Gov. Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist/Visit Visa | Up to 3 Months | 30–90 Days | $60 USD |
| Family Visit Visa | Up to 5 Years | 30–90 Days per visit | $60 USD |
| Business Visa | Up to 5 Years | 30 Days per visit | $100 USD |
Application Methods: DIY vs. Assisted Service
The Government of Pakistan manages all applications through the NADRA portal. Accuracy is critical when completing your application. The system extracts data exactly as entered for your final Visa Grant Notice. Errors in passport details often lead to rejections or denial of boarding.
- Direct Application (DIY): Travelers may apply directly via the official Pakistan Online Visa portal. This requires creating a NADRA account, managing multiple digital uploads, and navigating a non-refundable payment system.
- Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer expert assistance, iVisa provides a comprehensive application review. Their team ensures your invitation letter (Sponsorship/Affidavit), host's ID, and application details meet exact specifications, significantly reducing the risk of a "Review" status or rejection. They offer 24/7 bilingual support.
To enter Pakistan, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. You also need at least one fully blank visa page for the entry stamp. If you do not meet these requirements, renew your passport before applying for a Pakistan tourist E-Visa.
Check Expedited Passport Renewal Options (1-Week Service Available)
Authorized Ports of Entry
The Pakistan E-Visa is valid for entry at all major international checkpoints, including:
- Air: Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE), Karachi (KHI), Peshawar (PEW), and Multan (MUX) airports.
- Land: Wagah Border (with India) and Sost Border (with China), provided the visa is valid for these crossings.
Step-by-Step Application Process
E-Visa applications should be submitted at least 2–4 weeks before departure to account for potential "Review" cycles and delays.
Step 1: Get Your Information Ready
- Valid U.S. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- Passport Photo: A digital photo with a white background (no glasses).
- Bio-Page Scan: A clear, color scan of your passport information page.
- Invitation Letter: An "Affidavit" or invitation letter from a host in Pakistan, accompanied by a copy of the host's Pakistani ID (CNIC).
- Hotel Booking: Proof of accommodation if traveling for tourism without a host.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Access the official portal or use an assisted service like iVisa.
- Fill out the form exactly as it appears on your U.S. passport.
- Upload all digital documents and pay the non-refundable fee via credit or debit card.
Step 3: Receive and Print Your Visa Grant Notice
- Confirmation: Once approved, your Visa Grant Notice will be sent to your email.
- Physical Copy: You must print a physical copy of this notice. This is your electronic visa; digital copies on phones are often insufficient for immigration approval.
Additional Pakistan Entry Requirements
A Visa Grant Notice allows you to travel to Pakistan, but does not guarantee final admission. Final entry is determined by immigration officers at the border.
Be prepared to show:
- Printed Visa Grant Notice: Mandatory for airline boarding and border processing.
- Host Responsibility: If visiting family/friends, your host may be contacted to certify responsibility for your stay.
- Registration: Foreigners staying more than 30 days may be required to register with the Foreigner Registration Office (FRO) in certain districts.
- Minors: Children traveling on their own U.S. passports require their own E-Visa. If a minor is traveling with only one parent, a notarized consent form signed by both parents is mandatory.
Pakistan E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. As of January 2026, the Visa on Arrival system has been suspended for most nationalities, including U.S. citizens. You must apply online and have a Visa Grant Notice before you travel.
This category is for U.S. citizens of Pakistani origin or their spouses/children. It often allows for longer validity (up to 5 years) but requires proof of origin, such as a NICOP or a former Pakistani passport.
Yes. For a Visit Visa, you must provide either a host's invitation letter and their ID or a confirmed hotel reservation and travel itinerary.
Yes. The "Visa Grant Notice" must be printed and kept with your passport throughout your entire journey and stay in Pakistan.
Yes. You can apply for a visa extension through the same NADRA online portal while you are still in Pakistan, provided your current visa has not expired.
Secure your Pakistan E-Visa through iVisa today to ensure your application meets all official documentation standards.
