Pakistan Entry Points

Pakistan provides 23 official entry and exit ports for international travelers, managed by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Immigration Wing. These include international airports, land border crossings, seaports, and railway stations. Knowing which ports accept eVisa holders – and which have special restrictions – helps you plan a smooth arrival.

All 23 Official Entry and Exit Ports

The Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGIP) and NADRA maintain the definitive list of ports where foreign nationals may enter Pakistan with a valid visa.

International Airports (11)

Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi handle the majority of international arrivals and have the most developed immigration facilities. Gwadar Airport primarily serves flights linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and limited international routes.

Land Border Crossings (7)

Wagah is the busiest land crossing and the primary route for Indian nationals. Torkham and Chaman serve traffic to and from Afghanistan. Taftan and Gabd connect Pakistan with Iran. Sost (Khunjerab Pass) is the highest paved international border crossing in the world at 4,693 meters, connecting Pakistan with China’s Xinjiang region.

Seaports (4)

Karachi Port and Port Qasim handle the vast majority of maritime passenger and cargo traffic. Gwadar Sea Port is a deep-sea port developed under CPEC with growing international connectivity.

Railway Stations (2)

Railway crossings are primarily used for India-Pakistan travel. The Samjhauta Express runs between Lahore and Wagah, while the Thar Express connects Khokhrapar with India’s Munabao.

Which Ports Can eVisa Holders Use?

Holders of a Pakistan eVisa can enter through all 23 official ports, including airports, land routes, seaports, and railway stations. The eVisa system (managed through visa.nadra.gov.pk) is accepted at every notified entry point.

However, Indian passport holders face restrictions – they may only enter and exit through:

• Islamabad International Airport
• Allama Iqbal International Airport (Lahore)
• Jinnah International Airport (Karachi)
• Wagah Land Route

Indian nationals are also typically required to enter and exit through the same port unless advance permission is obtained.

Restrictions for Indian Passport Holders

Indian citizens cannot apply for a standard tourist eVisa. Their entry is subject to Ministry of Interior clearance and is limited to:

• Family visit visas
• Business visas (up to 6 months, multiple entry)
• Transit visas
• Religious pilgrimage visas

Indian nationals must also register with the police upon arrival, regardless of visa type. Former Indian nationals holding US, British, or Canadian passports can apply for an eVisa through the standard portal.

Countries Eligible for eVisa

Citizens of all countries except India and Taiwan can apply for a Pakistan eVisa through the NADRA online portal. As of January 2026, the previously free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) has been suspended, and all travelers must now apply for a paid eVisa with standard processing.

Nationals of the following GCC and select countries enjoy visa-free entry:

• 90 days visa-free: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE
• 30 days visa-free: Maldives, Nepal

Arrival Process at Pakistani Airports

When you land at a Pakistani international airport, expect the following steps:

1. Immigration counter – Present your passport, printed eVisa (or ETA), and arrival card. Officers may ask about your purpose of visit, accommodation, and return ticket.
2. Biometric capture – Fingerprints and a photograph may be taken.
3. Customs declaration – Declare any dutiable items. The green channel is for those with nothing to declare.
4. Baggage claim – Collect your luggage.

The process typically takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on the airport and time of arrival. Having your hotel booking confirmation, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds readily available speeds things up.

Land Border Crossing Tips

Crossing into Pakistan by land requires additional preparation:

• Wagah (India): Open daily; the famous flag-lowering ceremony takes place at sunset. Arrive early as immigration closes in the evening.
• Torkham and Chaman (Afghanistan): Security conditions can change rapidly. Check current travel advisories before attempting these crossings.
• Taftan (Iran): Remote crossing in Balochistan; limited facilities. Arrange onward transport in advance.
• Sost/Khunjerab Pass (China): Open from May 1 to November 30. Closed during winter due to heavy snow. Operates Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Pakistan time).

Overstay Penalties

Pakistan allows a grace period of up to two weeks for overstays. After that:

Overstaying beyond the permitted period can also result in detention and deportation. Always ensure your visa validity covers your intended stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter Pakistan at any airport with an eVisa?
Yes. All 11 international airports accept eVisa holders. You are not restricted to a specific airport.

Is visa on arrival still available in Pakistan?
The free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) for 126 countries was suspended on January 1, 2026. You must now apply for a paid eVisa before traveling. Some countries with special agreements (GCC states, Maldives, Nepal) still enjoy visa-free entry.

Which is the best airport to fly into Pakistan?
Islamabad (ISB) has the newest terminal and most international connections. Lahore (LHE) is convenient for Punjab-based destinations. Karachi (KHI) is the gateway for southern Pakistan.

Can I cross the Pakistan-India border by land?
Yes, at the Wagah crossing near Lahore and via the Samjhauta Express or Thar Express railways. Indian nationals are restricted to these routes and select airports.

Is the Khunjerab Pass to China open year-round?
No. The Sost-Khunjerab crossing is open from May 1 to November 30 only, Monday through Friday.