Indian citizens who wish to travel to Pakistan must obtain a visa before departure. Unlike many other nationalities, Indian passport holders cannot use Pakistan’s e-visa system or obtain a visa on arrival. This guide covers every step of the Pakistan visa process for Indian nationals, from required documents to application procedures and processing times.
Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Pakistan?
Yes. Indian citizens require a valid visa to enter Pakistan for any purpose, including tourism, business, family visits, and religious pilgrimages. There is no visa-free arrangement between India and Pakistan, and no visa-on-arrival facility is available for Indian passport holders.
Pakistan operates an online visa portal at visa.nadra.gov.pk for citizens of 192 countries, but Indian nationals must apply through the traditional embassy route. The application is handled by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi or the Pakistan Consulates in Mumbai and other cities.
Key points for Indian applicants:
- Visa required: Yes, for all purposes and all durations
- E-visa available: No, Indian citizens are not eligible for Pakistan e-visa
- Visa on arrival: Not available for Indian passport holders
- Processing time: 4 to 8 weeks (can be longer)
- Application method: In-person at Pakistan High Commission or Consulate
Types of Pakistan Visas for Indian Citizens
Indian nationals can apply for several categories of Pakistani visa depending on the purpose of their visit:
Tourist Visa
The tourist visa allows Indian citizens to visit Pakistan for sightseeing, cultural exploration, and leisure travel. This visa is typically granted for a stay of up to 30 days and may be single or multiple entry.
Requirements include a confirmed hotel booking, a detailed travel itinerary, and proof of sufficient funds. Tourist visa applications from Indian citizens undergo additional security screening, which contributes to longer processing times.
Business Visa
Indian business professionals seeking to travel to Pakistan for commercial activities, trade meetings, conferences, or business negotiations must apply for a business visa. An invitation letter from a Pakistani company or business partner is mandatory.
The business visa is generally issued for 30 to 90 days. Applicants must provide:
- An invitation letter from the sponsoring Pakistani company
- A letter from the Indian employer confirming the business purpose
- Details of the Pakistani business contact
- Proof of previous business relationship (if applicable)
Family Visit Visa
Indian citizens with close family members (spouse, parents, children, siblings) residing in Pakistan can apply for a family visit visa. The sponsoring family member in Pakistan must provide an invitation letter and proof of their Pakistani residency or citizenship.
Processing for family visit visas may be faster than tourist visas when strong family ties are documented, though security clearance remains part of the process.
Transit Visa
For Indian travelers passing through Pakistan en route to another destination, a transit visa may be issued. Transit visas are typically valid for a very short period (up to 72 hours) and require proof of onward travel.
Religious Visa (Sikh Pilgrimage)
India’s Sikh community can apply for religious visas to visit important gurdwaras and religious sites in Pakistan, including Nankana Sahib (the birthplace of Guru Nanak) and Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur. The Kartarpur Corridor, connecting Dera Baba Nanak in India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, was established in November 2019 to facilitate visa-free pilgrimage for Indian Sikh devotees.
The Kartarpur Corridor allows Indian pilgrims to visit the shrine without a traditional visa, though registration through the designated portal is required. Availability may vary based on bilateral relations between India and Pakistan.
How to Apply for a Pakistan Visa from India
The application process for Indian citizens involves several steps:
Step 1: Determine the Visa Type
Identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose. Each category has specific document requirements and processing timelines.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of application, with at least 2 blank pages
- Visa application form: Completed online at the Pakistan High Commission website or obtained in person
- Passport-size photographs: Two recent colour photographs (typically 45mm x 35mm)
- Invitation letter: From a Pakistani sponsor (required for business, family visit, and some tourist visas)
- Travel itinerary: Detailed day-by-day plan of your visit
- Hotel reservations: Confirmed bookings for the duration of stay
- Flight bookings: Confirmed return or onward tickets
- Financial proof: Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient funds
- Employment proof: Letter from employer or business registration documents
- Cover letter: Explaining the purpose and details of your visit
Step 3: Submit the Application
Visit the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi or the Pakistan Consulate in Mumbai to submit your application in person. Some categories may allow postal applications, but in-person submission is recommended for Indian citizens.
Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi
Address: 2/50-G, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
Phone: +91-11-2611 0601
Pakistan Consulate, Mumbai
Address: Old Custom House, 2nd Floor, 115 Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Mumbai 400001
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Visa fees for Indian citizens vary by category and duration. Payment is typically made at the time of application submission. Fees are non-refundable regardless of the visa outcome.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing times for Indian citizens range from 4 to 8 weeks, though applications may take longer during periods of heightened security or diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan. There is no expedited processing option.
Step 6: Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the High Commission or Consulate. Check the visa sticker carefully for accuracy, including your name, passport number, visa type, validity dates, and permitted number of entries.
Pakistan Visa Fees for Indian Citizens
Visa fees for Indian nationals applying for Pakistan visa are as follows:
| Visa Category | Duration | Approximate Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (Single Entry) | 30 days | USD 100 |
| Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry) | 90 days | USD 150 |
| Business Visa (Single Entry) | 30 days | USD 100 |
| Business Visa (Multiple Entry) | 90 days | USD 150 |
| Family Visit Visa | 30-90 days | USD 80-100 |
| Transit Visa | 72 hours | USD 50 |
| Religious Visa | Per itinerary | USD 50-80 |
Note: Fees are approximate and may change. Additional service charges may apply. The Pakistan High Commission reserves the right to modify fees without prior notice. Always confirm the current fee at the time of application.
Passport and Document Requirements
To be eligible for a Pakistan visa, Indian citizens must meet the following passport and documentation requirements:
- Passport validity: Minimum 6 months from the date of visa application
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank visa pages in the passport
- Passport condition: The passport must be in good condition with no torn, damaged, or missing pages
- Photographs: Recent passport-size colour photographs with white background, taken within the last 6 months
- Previous passports: If you have previously traveled to Pakistan, provide copies of previous Pakistani visas
Entry Points for Indian Citizens Entering Pakistan
Indian citizens can enter Pakistan through the following official entry points:
Air Entry Points
- Islamabad International Airport (ISB): The primary international airport serving the capital city
- Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore (LHE): The closest major airport to the India-Pakistan border
- Jinnah International Airport, Karachi (KHI): Pakistan’s largest airport, serving the southern region
- Bacha Khan International Airport, Peshawar (PEW): Gateway to northwestern Pakistan
Land Border Crossing
- Wagah Border (Lahore): The only official land border crossing between India and Pakistan, located on the Grand Trunk Road between Amritsar (India) and Lahore (Pakistan). The border crossing currently has limited operational status and may be subject to closures or restrictions. Check the latest status before planning an overland journey.
Important: The Kartarpur Corridor provides a separate entry mechanism for Sikh pilgrims visiting Gurdwara Darbar Sahib and does not require a traditional visa, though prior registration is mandatory.
How Long Can Indian Citizens Stay in Pakistan?
The permitted duration of stay depends on the visa type issued:
- Tourist visa: Typically 30 days, single or multiple entry
- Business visa: 30 to 90 days depending on the visa category
- Family visit visa: 30 to 90 days
- Transit visa: Up to 72 hours
- Religious visa: Duration aligned with the pilgrimage itinerary
Overstaying your visa in Pakistan is a serious offence. Indian citizens who overstay may face detention, fines, deportation, and a ban on future travel to Pakistan. If you need to extend your stay, apply for a visa extension through the Ministry of Interior or the relevant FIA (Federal Investigation Agency) office before your visa expires.
Tips for Indian Citizens Traveling to Pakistan
- Apply well in advance: Given processing times of 4 to 8 weeks, submit your application at least 2 months before your intended travel date
- Register with the Indian Embassy: Register your travel plans with the Indian High Commission in Islamabad for consular assistance
- Carry printed copies: Keep printed copies of your visa, invitation letter, hotel bookings, and return tickets at all times
- Respect visa conditions: Do not engage in activities outside your visa category (e.g., working on a tourist visa)
- Stay informed: Monitor travel advisories from both the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Pakistani government
- Currency regulations: Familiarize yourself with Pakistan’s foreign currency import and export regulations
- Local SIM card: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for communication and navigation
- Photography restrictions: Avoid photographing military installations, government buildings, and border areas
- Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Indian citizens get a Pakistan visa on arrival?
No. Indian passport holders cannot obtain a visa on arrival in Pakistan. All visas must be obtained in advance through the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi or the Pakistan Consulate in Mumbai.
Is Pakistan e-visa available for Indian citizens?
No. While Pakistan offers an e-visa system for citizens of 192 countries, Indian nationals are currently not eligible. Indian citizens must apply through the traditional embassy or consulate route.
How long does it take to get a Pakistan visa for Indian citizens?
Processing times range from 4 to 8 weeks. During periods of diplomatic tension or security concerns, processing may take longer. There is no expedited processing option available.
How much does a Pakistan visa cost for Indian citizens?
Fees vary by visa category. A single-entry tourist visa costs approximately USD 100, while multiple-entry visas may cost around USD 150. Additional service charges may apply.
Can Indian citizens visit Pakistan through the Wagah border?
The Wagah border crossing is the only official land crossing between India and Pakistan. However, it currently has limited operational status. Check the latest status before planning an overland crossing. Daily border ceremonies at Wagah remain accessible.
What is the Kartarpur Corridor?
The Kartarpur Corridor is a visa-free passage connecting Dera Baba Nanak in India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan. It was opened in November 2019 for Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit one of the holiest Sikh shrines without a traditional visa. Registration through the designated portal is required.
Can Indian citizens extend their stay in Pakistan?
Visa extensions can be applied for through the Ministry of Interior or FIA offices in Pakistan. However, extensions are not guaranteed and must be requested before the current visa expires. Overstaying without authorization is a serious offence.
Do Indian citizens need an invitation letter for a Pakistan tourist visa?
While not always mandatory for tourist visas, an invitation letter significantly strengthens the application. For business and family visit visas, an invitation letter from the Pakistani sponsor is required.
Which airlines fly between India and Pakistan?
Direct flights between India and Pakistan are currently suspended. Indian citizens can travel to Pakistan via connecting flights through Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, or other transit hubs.
Can OCI cardholders apply for a Pakistan visa?
OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cardholders who hold a foreign passport (not Indian) may be subject to different visa requirements based on their passport nationality. Those holding only Indian passports follow the standard Indian citizen application process.
