Congratulations, my friend—you’re headed to Pakistan! Zindabad Pakistan!
- By: The Bearded Backpacker
- Last Updated:
Traveling to Pakistan has always been on my bucket list, but as an American citizen, I knew that obtaining a visa would require some effort. Pakistan is a country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, and I was determined to experience it all. However, navigating the visa application process was a bit daunting, especially with some recent changes that have been made to the system.
In this short guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process of getting a Pakistan visa as an American citizen, sharing my personal experience and detailing the updates you need to be aware of.
You will apply for your E Visa here.
My Motivation to Visit Pakistan
Before diving into the logistics, let me share why I wanted to visit Pakistan in the first place. As someone who loves exploring places off the beaten path, Pakistan has always intrigued me. From the ancient cities of Lahore and Karachi to the serene valleys of Hunza and Skardu, the country offers a diverse array of experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Plus, the idea of immersing myself in the rich tapestry of Pakistani culture, food, and hospitality was something I couldn’t resist.
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@thebeardedbackpacker Are you wondering how to travel to Pakistan as an American cirizen and how to get your visa for Pakistan? Check this video out 🇵🇰 #pakistan #pakistanvisa #traveltips #visaprocess #traveltopakistan #evisa #visaprocess #zindabadpakistan #explorepakistan
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"Taking that first step, that first flight, first solo trip may seem scary, but it's those very first things that can potentially take you a thousand miles and places."
You Must Know This About Your E Visa
The Pakistani government has recently announced major changes to its visa process and fee structure, including reducing the visa fee to $0 for citizens of over 120 countries. You can check the full list of eligible countries here. Unfortunately, I had already spent $150 on two visas before this new policy was implemented. Despite this, I decided to apply for a new e-visa under the updated rules as a backup.
One key point to remember is that the visa validity period starts on the day it is granted. For instance, if you apply for your visa on August 1, 2024, and it’s approved on August 2, 2024, with a three-month validity, you can enter Pakistan anytime between August 2 and November 2, 2024. Keep this in mind when planning your travel.
Under the new e-visa system, my visa was approved in under a minute and sent directly to my email inbox. The process is very straightforward, and I’ll guide you through it. Additionally, the e-visa now allows for multiple entries, which is ideal if you plan to visit neighboring countries like Afghanistan and return to Pakistan.
Here is a list of visa categories.
How to Get a Free E Visa
Follow these steps:
Select “Get Visa Prior to Arrival.” Once you choose this option, your e-Visa will be sent directly to your email inbox.
If this is your first time, create a new account.
This is your dashboard, where you can view all your visas, download them, and start a new visa application. To begin, select “New Application.”
Select “Pak Visa” if you’re applying for a new visa, choose your nationality, and then proceed.
I believe this is the most important step: ensure you select “Visa Prior to Arrival.” Everything else is straightforward—just enter your personal information carefully. It’s crucial that the details match exactly what’s on your passport, so triple-check everything to avoid any mistakes.
For the family information section, I left mine blank. In the employment section, I simply selected “Employed” without providing additional details. When it asks for the address of your accommodation, enter the details of your hotel or wherever you’ll be staying.
A letter of invitation is not required.
Finally, you’ll need to upload a photo. The photo must be taken against a white background. I used my iPhone for this, and it worked perfectly fine.
Conclusion: Is the Effort Worth It?
Absolutely, while the old visa process might have seemed daunting at first, especially with all the recent changes, it’s now a straightforward process if you’re well-prepared. So, if you’re considering a trip to Pakistan, don’t be discouraged by the visa process. With a little preparation and this simplified e-visa system, you’ll be good to go.
Meet Me
The Bearded Backpacker
Hi there! welcome to the blog! My name is Don, and I am the beard behind this site. My hope is to inspire you to rethink the how’s and why’s of travel, and the places we travel to. Whether it’s traveling on a budget, solo trips, backpacking journeys, I’ve got you covered. Since you have landed here, I am officially your personal travel guide. Uncovering travel tips, hacks, hidden destinations, and much more. Let's start this journey.
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Are Hostels Safe? Your Ultimate Guide to Secure and Enjoyable Hostel Stays
August 15, 2024
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In this guide, I’m here to tackle those safety concerns head-on, bust some myths, and arm you with the tips you need to stay safe while soaking up everything hostels have to offer. Hostels are often my go-to choice because they’re inexpensive, super social, and give you the chance to meet people from every corner of the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions
• can americans visit pakistan
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- Plan ahead by choosing destinations that match your interests and booking accommodations with private options. Embrace solitude by focusing on solo activities, visiting quiet spots, and taking your time exploring. Manage social interactions by setting boundaries and not feeling pressured to socialize more than you’re comfortable with.
• is pakistan safe?
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Plan your trip carefully, including accommodations and activities that suit your preferences. Stay open to new experiences but trust your instincts and prioritize safety. Maintain a flexible itinerary to allow for spontaneity while ensuring you have essential details, like transportation and lodging, organized. Stay connected with loved ones, and embrace the opportunity for personal growth and independence.
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SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND ME