Pakistan Visa RequirementsFor United States passport holders
US citizens can apply for a Pakistan tourist e-visa online. The fee is approximately $60 for a single-entry visa valid for 30 days. The US State Department advises exercising increased caution in Pakistan.
United States passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Pakistan.
Apply for the e-visa at visa.nadra.gov.pk. Required documents: valid US passport (6+ months validity), passport-size photo, bank statement, confirmed hotel booking, and return/onward ticket. Processing typically takes 5-7 business days. The tourist e-visa is single entry, 30 days, and non-extendable. Multiple-entry visas and longer stays require embassy applications.
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
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date with at least one blank page
Digital Passport Photo
Recent color photo in JPEG format meeting specific size requirements (usually 35x45mm, 600x600 pixels)
Completed Online Application
Fill out the official eVisa application form on the government portal
Travel Itinerary
Detailed travel plans including dates and places you intend to visit
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel bookings, Airbnb reservations, or host invitation letter
Return or Onward Flight
Confirmed flight booking showing departure from the country
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank statements or credit card showing adequate funds for your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellation
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Pakistan's safety has improved significantly. Major cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi are generally safe with precautions. The northern mountain regions are safe and increasingly popular with tourists. Avoid border areas with Afghanistan and India, and some parts of Balochistan. Check current advisories.
Money & Costs
Currency
₨ Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $25 · Mid: $60 · Luxury: $150+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated. 10% in restaurants. Tips for guides and drivers expected.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, D, 230V 50Hz
Driving
Left side
Emergency
15 (Police), 16 (Fire), 115 (Ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Lahore (LHE) · Islamabad (ISB) · Karachi (KHI)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time depends on the region. For northern mountains (Gilgit-Baltistan, KPK), May to October is ideal. For lowland areas (Lahore, Karachi), October to March avoids extreme heat. The monsoon (July-September) affects some regions.
Cultural Notes
Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage blending Mughal, Persian, Central Asian, and South Asian influences. Sufi shrines, Mughal architecture, and vibrant bazaars characterize the experience. Hospitality is legendary - guests are honored. The country has diverse ethnic groups including Punjabi, Pashtun, Sindhi, and Baloch.
Insider Tips
Urdu is the national language; English is widely spoken. The Pakistani Rupee is the currency. Pakistan offers incredible hospitality and stunning mountain scenery. Dress conservatively. Women should cover arms, legs, and often hair. Permits needed for some trekking areas.
Current Travel Situation
United States to Pakistan: What You Need to Know
Pakistan launched its tourist e-visa program in 2019, opening the country more broadly to international visitors. The main international airports are Islamabad (ISB/IATA: ISB), Karachi (KHI), and Lahore (LHE), with connections from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Direct flights from the US are not available; common connections run through Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Istanbul. The US State Department maintains a Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) advisory for much of Pakistan, with Level 4 (Do Not Travel) zones along the Afghan border, Balochistan, and the former FATA region.
How to Get There
Islamabad is the main arrival point for northern Pakistan (Lahore and Islamabad are 3.5 hours apart by road). Most flights from the US route through Gulf hubs (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) or Istanbul with connections to Islamabad or Karachi. Pakistani carrier PIA operates some transatlantic routes. Lahore is a popular entry for those combining Pakistan with India (though the land border at Wagah is currently closed for tourist crossings).
Money & Banking
Pakistan uses the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). USD and major currencies can be exchanged at banks and exchange counters in cities. ATMs are available in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi; rural areas and northern mountain regions are cash-only. Pakistan is affordable: a local restaurant meal costs $2-5, and guesthouses in mountain regions are $10-30/night. Exchange rates fluctuate; check before converting large amounts.
Practical Tips
Pakistan's northern mountains (Karakoram, Hindukush, Himalaya) are extraordinary and now accessible to tourists: the K2 base camp trek, Hunza Valley, Fairy Meadows near Nanga Parbat, and the Karakoram Highway are world-class adventures. Lahore's Mughal architecture (Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, Shalimar Gardens) rivals anything in the region. The ancient cities of Taxila and Mohenjo-daro are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Always hire a local guide for northern Pakistan treks and register with local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pakistan safe for American tourists?
Safety varies significantly by region. Major cities (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi) and popular tourist areas like Hunza and Gilgit-Baltistan have been visited safely by many international travelers. The US State Department advises Level 2 (Increased Caution) overall, with Level 4 (Do Not Travel) for border regions with Afghanistan and Balochistan. Research specific destinations carefully and hire local guides for mountain treks.
How do I apply for a Pakistan tourist visa?
Apply online at visa.nadra.gov.pk. You need a valid passport, photo, bank statement, hotel booking, and return ticket. The fee is approximately $60. Processing takes 5-7 business days. The tourist e-visa is single entry, valid for 30 days from the date of entry.
Can I trek to K2 base camp as an American?
Yes. The Karakoram region including K2 base camp is open to tourists with the Pakistan tourist e-visa. Most trekkers hire local guides through registered agencies in Islamabad or Skardu, which is recommended for safety and logistics. Permits for certain restricted peaks or areas may require additional paperwork.