British passport holders need a visa to enter Pakistan. The good news is that UK citizens can apply entirely online through the Pakistan eVisa system – and as of August 2024, they are exempt from visa fees. This guide covers every step of the process, from required documents to processing times.
Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Pakistan?
Yes. All British passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Pakistan. There is no visa-free arrangement between the United Kingdom and Pakistan. However, the eVisa system makes the application straightforward – no embassy visit is required for most applicants.
UK citizens can apply for the following visa types online:
- Tourist eVisa – for sightseeing, cultural visits, and leisure travel
- Family Visit eVisa – for visiting relatives residing in Pakistan
- Business eVisa – for attending meetings, conferences, or trade events
- Religious Tourism eVisa – for pilgrimage and religious purposes
Pakistan eVisa Requirements for UK Citizens
To complete your application, prepare the following documents:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid UK passport | At least 6 months remaining validity from date of entry |
| Passport-size photograph | White background, neutral expression, max 350 KB |
| Accommodation proof | Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from a host in Pakistan |
| Flight details | Return or onward travel itinerary |
| Supporting documents | Vary by visa type (see below) |
Additional Documents by Visa Type
Tourist Visa:
– Travel itinerary or tour operator letter (if travelling with an organised group)
Family Visit Visa:
– Invitation letter from family member in Pakistan
– Proof of relationship
Business Visa:
– Invitation letter from a registered Pakistani company
– Company registration certificate (SECP or Chamber of Commerce)
How to Apply for a Pakistan eVisa from the UK
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Register on the official portal – Visit visa.nadra.gov.pk and create an account
- Confirm your email – Click the confirmation link sent to your email address
- Log in and start the application – Select your visa category
- Enter personal details – Passport number, nationality, purpose of visit, intended entry point
- Complete all sections – Application information, personal information, family details, finances and employment, travel history, and visit information
- Upload documents – Attach scanned copies of your passport, photo, and supporting documents
- Pay the fee – UK citizens are exempt from fees (see below), so no payment is required
- Submit and wait – Processing takes 48-72 working hours
Once approved, you will receive an email notification. Print or save the eVisa confirmation to present at immigration upon arrival.
Pakistan eVisa Fee for UK Citizens
UK citizens do not need to pay a visa fee for Pakistan. Since August 2024, Pakistan waived visa fees for citizens of 126 countries, including the United Kingdom. This applies to all eVisa categories – tourist, family visit, business, and religious tourism.
For reference, nationalities that are not exempt typically pay between USD 20 and USD 60 for a single-entry tourist visa.
Pakistan eVisa Validity and Duration of Stay
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa validity | 3 months from date of issuance |
| Entry type | Single entry |
| Maximum stay | 30 days per entry |
| Extension | Possible through local immigration authorities in Pakistan |
If you need to stay longer than 30 days or require multiple entries, you can apply for a longer-validity visa through the Pakistani embassy or consulate.
Pakistan Visa on Arrival for UK Citizens
UK citizens are also eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at major Pakistani airports and land border crossings. However, this requires prior online authorisation:
- Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) at least 48-72 working hours before departure
- If approved, travel to Pakistan with the ETA confirmation
- Present required documents at the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) immigration counter upon arrival
- Receive your visa stamp
The ETA application follows the same process as the eVisa on the official portal. The VoA option is convenient for last-minute travel, but applying for a full eVisa in advance is recommended to avoid any issues at the border.
Entry Points into Pakistan
UK citizens with a valid eVisa or VoA can enter Pakistan through the following ports:
Airports
- Islamabad International Airport (ISB)
- Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore (LHE)
- Jinnah International Airport, Karachi (KHI)
- Bacha Khan International Airport, Peshawar (PEW)
- Quetta International Airport (UET)
Land Border Crossings
- Wagah Border (Pakistan-India, near Lahore)
- Torkham Border (Pakistan-Afghanistan)
- Taftan Border (Pakistan-Iran)
- Sost Border (Pakistan-China, via Khunjerab Pass)
Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Pakistan eVisa is 48 to 72 working hours. During peak travel seasons (November to February, when Pakistan attracts the most tourists), processing may take slightly longer. Apply at least one week before your intended travel date to allow for any delays.
In some cases, the Pakistani authorities may request an interview at the nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate. This is rare for UK applicants but can happen if additional verification is needed.
Travel Advisories for Pakistan
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to certain areas of Pakistan:
- Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province (formerly the Federally Administered Tribal Areas)
- Balochistan province, including Quetta
- The Karakoram Highway between Mansehra and Chilas
- Areas near the Line of Control
- Districts of Charsadda, Kohat, Tank, Bannu, Lakki, Dera Ismail Khan, Swat, Buner, and Lower Dir
- Peshawar and its southern districts
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Pakistan. Check the latest FCDO travel advice for Pakistan before booking your trip.
Tips for UK Citizens Travelling to Pakistan
- Register with the FCDO – Sign up for travel alerts and notifications
- Get travel insurance – Ensure your policy covers Pakistan and includes medical evacuation
- Currency – Pakistani Rupee (PKR). ATMs are available in major cities; carry cash for rural areas
- SIM cards – Buy a local SIM at the airport for data and calls (requires passport)
- Dress code – Pakistan is a conservative country. Dress modestly, especially at religious sites
- Photography – Avoid photographing military installations, bridges, and government buildings
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Pakistan visa online from the UK?
Yes. UK citizens can apply for a Pakistan eVisa entirely online through the official portal at visa.nadra.gov.pk. No embassy visit is required unless specifically requested by the authorities.
How long does it take to get a Pakistan eVisa?
Standard processing takes 48-72 working hours. Apply at least one week before travel to account for potential delays.
Is the Pakistan eVisa free for UK citizens?
Yes. Since August 2024, UK citizens are exempt from Pakistan visa fees for all eVisa categories.
Can I extend my stay in Pakistan beyond 30 days?
Yes. You can apply for a visa extension through the local immigration authorities in Pakistan before your 30-day stay expires.
Do I need a return ticket to apply for a Pakistan eVisa?
You need to provide flight details as part of your application, which typically includes a return or onward travel itinerary.
What happens if my eVisa application is denied?
If your application is denied, you can reapply with corrected or additional documents. You may also apply through the Pakistani embassy or consulate in London for a traditional visa.
Can I work in Pakistan on a tourist eVisa?
No. The tourist eVisa does not permit employment. If you plan to work in Pakistan, you must apply for a Work Visa through the embassy or the online portal under the Work Visa category.
