Pakistan: Visa and immigration

Do I need a visa and/or work permit?

Visas are required by all UK and EU nationals entering Pakistan, as well as a valid passport.

How do I apply for a visa and/or work permit?

Within the UK, a visa can be obtained from the High Commission for Pakistan in the UK , which operates a helpline to answer questions. The website has basic information and the visa application form can be downloaded.

Tourist visas normally take five working days to process. Student and/or work visas can take up to three months to process. Visas are usually granted for work or study only, so those on a student visa will usually be unable to work at the same time. In both cases, an offer of a study place or job is required before you can apply for a visa.

All UK nationals visiting or resident in Pakistan are strongly advised to register with the consular section of the British High Commission in Pakistan .

If you are not a UK national, contact the Pakistani embassy in the country where you are currently residing about how to obtain visas and work permits. If you are living in the UK, go to the High Commission for Pakistan in the UK .

You might also find it helpful to contact your ministry of foreign affairs (or your own embassy if you are not living in your home country) to ask whether there are any issues to be taken into account when considering working in Pakistan.

How do I apply for permanent residency?

Work visas can be renewed on an annual basis once in Pakistan. UK citizens who can demonstrate a family link to Pakistan can gain citizenship on application. It is unusual for others, except for journalists, diplomats and entrepreneurs, to seek residency. Cases are dealt with on an individual basis by the Government of Pakistan Directorate General of Immigration and Passports . Regulations and the political situation are subject to change, so check with the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports at the time you wish to seek residency for up-to-date information.