Planning a trip to Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza or Skardu? The first step for most international travelers is a Pakistan tourist visa. The good news is that the whole process is now online. In this guide, our local team explains how the system works in 2026, what documents you need and how to plan your timing.
Important: visa rules can change at short notice. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official government portal before you apply.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Pakistan?
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Pakistan. Citizens of the six GCC countries are exempt from the visa requirement, and a small number of other countries have special agreements. For almost everyone else, including travelers from Europe, North America, Australia and most of Asia, a tourist visa must be obtained before you travel.
What Changed in 2026?
Until the end of 2025, citizens of many countries could get a free Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA), usually within two days. Since 1 January 2026, this programme has been suspended. All tourists now apply through the standard online e-visa system, which has a processing time of around 7 to 10 working days and a fee that depends on your nationality.
In practice this means you should apply earlier than before. We recommend submitting your application at least three to four weeks before your flight, and longer in the busy summer months.
Where to Apply: The Official Portal Only
Pakistan visas are issued through the Pakistan Online Visa System at visa.nadra.gov.pk, which is open to citizens of more than 190 countries. The government warns that this is the only official website for Pakistan visas. Many third-party sites look official and charge extra fees, so always type the address yourself.
Documents You Will Usually Need
- A passport valid for at least six months from your date of entry
- A recent passport-size photograph in digital format
- A scan of your passport data page
- Your travel itinerary and hotel bookings or a tour confirmation
- In some cases, a letter of invitation or sponsorship from a registered tour operator, hotel or a Pakistani host
- An email address and, during registration, two-factor authentication on your phone
When you book a tour with us, we send you a detailed day-by-day itinerary and hotel list that you can upload with your application.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online
- Create an account on visa.nadra.gov.pk and verify your email.
- Choose the Tourist Visa category and single or multiple entry.
- Fill in the form with your personal, passport and travel details.
- Upload your documents, including photo, passport scan and itinerary.
- Pay the fee online by card. The amount depends on your nationality.
- Track your application in your account. If officials ask for more information, reply within seven days, otherwise the application may be cancelled.
- Download and print your e-visa grant letter and carry it with your passport.
How Long Does It Take?
The official processing time for a tourist visa is around 7 to 10 working days. If your application is sent back for corrections, the clock restarts from the day you resubmit. Around summer holidays and religious festivals it can take longer, so plan ahead.
Do I Need a Special Permit for Gilgit-Baltistan?
Popular tourist areas such as Hunza, Nagar, Skardu and Fairy Meadows do not normally require a separate permit for tourists. Some areas close to borders and certain mountaineering peaks do need special permission. Rules change from time to time, so our team checks the latest requirements before every trip and handles any local registration for you.
Arriving in Pakistan
Most international travelers arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Keep a printed copy of your e-visa, your return ticket and your first hotel address ready for immigration. On our tours, our team meets you at the airport and takes care of the rest of your journey.
Our Top Visa Tips
- Apply early, ideally a month before travel.
- Use only the official portal and ignore look-alike websites.
- Make sure your passport photo meets the size and background rules.
- Keep your itinerary consistent with your hotel bookings.
- Check your email and account regularly while the application is processing.
Planning Your Pakistan Trip?
Book with a local Gilgit-Baltistan team. We will send your full itinerary and hotel details to support your visa application.