United States Visa RequirementsFor Pakistan passport holders
Pakistani passport holders require a B-1/B-2 visa to visit the United States, with an application fee of $185. The process involves strict scrutiny and a mandatory in-person interview at the US Embassy in Islamabad.
Pakistan passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply online at ceac.state.gov by completing the DS-160 form. Pay the $185 MRV fee at a designated bank. Schedule an interview at the US Embassy, Islamabad (Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5) or the US Consulate General, Karachi. Bring all financial documents, employment proof, property records, and family ties documentation to your interview.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Pakistan to United States: What You Need to Know
Pakistani nationals face one of the most rigorous visa screening processes for the United States. The application involves an online DS-160 form, biometric enrollment, and a face-to-face interview. Approval rates for Pakistani applicants tend to be lower than global averages, and applicants are expected to demonstrate strong financial ties and compelling reasons to return home.
The US Embassy is located in Islamabad, with a consulate presence in Karachi for certain services. Visa appointment wait times can extend to several months during peak periods. Applicants with prior US travel history or family connections in Pakistan tend to have stronger profiles.
Despite the challenges, a significant Pakistani-American community exists in the US, and family visit visas are among the most common categories applied for. Having a sponsor letter from a US-based relative can strengthen the application.
Practical Tips
Prepare a comprehensive financial portfolio including bank statements for the last 6 months, salary slips, and property documents. Write a clear travel itinerary and purpose of visit. Bring evidence of strong ties to Pakistan such as employment contracts, family dependents, and property ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pakistani passport holders need a visa for the United States?
Yes. Pakistani nationals require a B-1/B-2 non-immigrant visa for tourism or business. The application fee is $185 and an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Islamabad is mandatory.
Where do Pakistanis apply for a US visa?
Applications are made at the US Embassy in Islamabad (Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5) or the US Consulate General in Karachi. You apply online at ceac.state.gov and schedule an interview after paying the fee.
How long does US visa processing take for Pakistani applicants?
Processing times vary widely. After the interview, a decision may come within a few days to several weeks. Appointment wait times in Islamabad can be several months, so apply well in advance.
What documents strengthen a US visa application from Pakistan?
Strong applications include 6 months of bank statements, salary slips, property ownership documents, family ties in Pakistan (dependents), employment contract, and a clear travel itinerary with booked accommodation.