Pakistan Visa Hub 2026
USA πΊπΈ Pakistan π΅π°
USA to Pakistan Visa Guide
Official 2026 immigration protocols for U.S. citizens. Pakistan has transitioned to a fully digital E-Visa and NICOP system.
| Visa Category | Document Needed | Processing Time | 2026 Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visit/Tourist Visa | Invitation / Hotel | 7 - 10 Working Days | USD 60 |
| Family Visit (Origin) | Pakistani ID / NICOP | 7 - 10 Working Days | USD 60 |
| NICOP (Smart Card) | Birth Cert / Parents ID | 10 - 31 Days | USD 52 - 88 |
| Business Visa | CC&I Recommendation | Within 24 Hours (Fast) | Varies |
1. Tourist & Visit Visas E-Visa Only
Since 2021, the Government of Pakistan has discontinued manual visa processing. All U.S. citizens must apply online via the NADRA portal.
- Invitation Letter (LOI): For a tourist visa, a notarized invitation letter from a host in Pakistan (with their CNIC) OR a confirmed hotel booking is mandatory.
- Selection of Mission: You must select the Pakistani Mission (Houston, New York, Los Angeles, DC) nearest to your U.S. residence.
- Validity: A standard tourist visa is usually issued for 3 months to 1 year with multiple entries.
2. Family Visit (Origin-Based) Simplified
If you or your parents are of Pakistani origin, you can apply for a Family Visit Visa.
- Eligibility: You must provide proof of Pakistani origin, such as a valid or expired Pakistani passport, CNIC, or NICOP.
- Spouse Policy: If your spouse is a Pakistani national, you can apply based on your marriage certificate and their Pakistani ID.
- Minors: For children under 16, a birth certificate and notarized consent from both parents are required.
3. NICOP & POC (Visa-Free Entry) Permanent
The **National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)** allows U.S. citizens of Pakistani descent to enter Pakistan visa-free.
- Benefits: Holders of NICOP/POC enjoy unrestricted travel, legal proof of identity, and the right to buy property in Pakistan.
- Application: You can apply via the "Pak Identity" mobile app or at a consulate. A birth certificate and parents' CNIC are primary requirements.
- Processing Tiers: Executive (10 days), Urgent (21 days), and Normal (31 days).
4. Employment & Study Permits Required
Required for U.S. citizens moving to Pakistan for career or education.
- Work Visa: Requires an employment letter from a company registered with the SECP and a recommendation from the Board of Investment (BOI).
- Student Visa: Requires an admission letter from a recognized Pakistani institution and an NOC from the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
- Police Clearance: A police clearance certificate from the U.S. is typically required for these long-term categories.
Β© 2026 Global Visa Guide | Information Verified via NADRA & Ministry of Foreign Affairs.