Pakistan’s visa policy changed significantly on January 1, 2026. The free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) program — which allowed citizens of 126 countries to visit Pakistan for free — was quietly discontinued. Foreign visitors must now apply for a standard paid e-Visa through the Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS). This updated guide explains everything about Pakistan visa requirements, fees, and application process for 2026.
Major Change: VPA Program Ended January 2026
Pakistan’s free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) program was launched in August 2024 to boost tourism. It allowed citizens of 126 countries free multiple-entry visas valid for 90 days with approvals in 24–48 hours. However, on January 1, 2026, the VPA option disappeared from the Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS) portal without any official announcement.
As of May 2026, no official statement has been made about whether VPA will return. All travelers from previously VPA-eligible countries must now apply for a standard paid e-Visa.
Pakistan e-Visa Application 2026 — Step by Step
- Visit the official Pakistan Online Visa System: visa.nadra.gov.pk
- Create an account with your email address
- Select visa type (Tourist, Business, Family Visit, Student, Work)
- Fill in personal and travel details
- Upload required documents
- Pay visa fee via international debit/credit card
- Submit application and receive reference number
- Track status online — processing typically takes 7–10 working days
- Download and print approved e-Visa
Important: Apply at least 4–6 weeks before travel. If your application is sent back for corrections, the processing clock resets from your resubmission date. You have 7 days to resubmit.
Pakistan Visa Fee 2026
Fees vary by nationality and visa type. Check the POVS fee structure page for your specific nationality. Some nationalities remain exempt from fees:
- Fee-exempt countries: Afghanistan, China, Japan, Iceland, North Korea, Slovakia, Malaysia, UAE, Saudi Arabia (except work visas)
- These nationals still apply through POVS but pay no fee
- Business visas are priced separately and generally cost more than tourist visas
Documents Required for Pakistan e-Visa 2026
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Recent passport-size photograph (white background)
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from Pakistan host
- For invitation letters: must be on government stamp paper, signed by host, with host’s CNIC copy
- Bank statement or proof of sufficient funds
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Pakistan Visa Types 2026
- Tourist Visa: For sightseeing, Hunza, Lahore, Karachi, northern areas
- Business Visa: For meetings, trade, investment
- Family Visit Visa: To visit Pakistani relatives
- Student Visa: For study at Pakistani universities
- Work Visa: For employment — requires employer NOC
- Transit Visa: For stopover through Pakistani airports
Pakistan Visa for Foreign Nationals Based in Pakistan
Foreign nationals already in Pakistan can extend or change their visa status through the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) offices in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pakistan visa on arrival available in 2026?
No. The free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) program was discontinued on January 1, 2026. All foreign visitors must apply for a paid e-Visa through the POVS portal before traveling to Pakistan.
How long does Pakistan e-Visa take in 2026?
Official processing is 7–10 working days. In practice some applicants report up to 20 business days. Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date to be safe.
Which countries don’t need to pay Pakistan visa fee?
Afghanistan, China, Japan, Iceland, North Korea, Slovakia, Malaysia, UAE, and Saudi Arabia nationals are exempt from Pakistan visa fees (except work visas). They still apply through the POVS portal.
How to apply for Pakistan visa online in 2026?
Apply at visa.nadra.gov.pk — the official Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS). Create an account, select visa type, upload documents, pay fee, and track your application online.
