Pakistan Freedom Portal 2026

As of **1 January 2026**, Pakistan has quietely suspended the free "Visa Prior to Arrival" system for New Zealand and 125 other countries.

• No More Free Visas: The simplified, free-of-charge VPA launched in 2024 is no longer available on the official portal.
• Standard e-Visa: Kiwi travelers must now apply for a "standard" paid e-Visa before travel.
• Processing Time: Approval now takes **7 to 10 working days**, compared to the 24-48 hours under the old system.
• Where to Apply: Use the official **Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS)** at *visa.nadra.gov.pk*.

The application form has become more extensive for 2026 arrivals.

• Invitation Letter: You typically need a letter of invitation (LOI) from a host or a travel company in Pakistan.
• Accommodation: You must upload proof of hotel bookings or residential address for your stay.
• Passport: Must be valid for at least **6 months** from the date of your arrival.
• Photograph: A digital, high-quality passport photo with a plain white background (no glasses allowed).

A new pilot program launched in **January 2026** is aiming to speed up travel between key hubs.

• The Concept: Pakistan and UAE have launched a **Pre-Immigration Clearance** pilot, currently operational for flights between Karachi and Dubai.
• Expansion: If you are flying to Pakistan via a Middle Eastern hub, stay alert for expansion of this system to Lahore and Islamabad later in 2026.
• Domestic Arrival: Travelers who clear these checks at departure airports are treated as domestic passengers upon landing in Pakistan, skipping the main immigration queues.

Currency declaration is now a digital-first process via the **Pass Track** app.

• Currency Entry: You MUST declare if you are carrying more than **USD $10,000** (approx. NZD $17,000) using the Pass Track app.
• Currency Exit: When leaving Pakistan, you must declare foreign currency exceeding **USD $5,000**.
• Mobile Registration: You can use your NZ phone for **60 days** without tax. After that, you must register it via PTA and pay the relevant duty.
• Food/Plants: NZ travelers are warned not to bring any prohibited plant or animal products; biosecurity at Pakistani airports is increasing.