Pakistan Simplifies Visa Rules to Welcome Tourists for 126 Countries

In a major step to promote foreign tourism, Pakistan has introduced a landmark change in its visa policy. Tourists from 126 countries can now avail a 90-day Visa Prior to Arrival with a simplified online process. The best part? The visa is absolutely free of cost, making Pakistan more accessible than ever.

This decision comes as a direct outcome of the National Tourism Symposium held in June 2024, where industry leaders and policymakers stressed the importance of streamlining visa processes to attract international travelers. By removing the visa fee and simplifying the application procedure, Pakistan aims to position itself as a must-visit destination for travellers worldwide.

Key Highlights of the New Visa Policy

1. Visa-Free Entry for GCC Tourists
   Citizens from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE can now enjoy a 90-day visa-free entry to Pakistan. This initiative is expected to significantly boost tourist traffic from the Middle East.

2. Simplified Visa Process for 126 Countries
   Travelers from 126 countries are now eligible for a Visa Prior to Arrival, which can be applied for through an easy-to-navigate online form. This visa grants visitors a stay of up to 90 days.

3. No Visa Fee
   Pakistan has eliminated the visa fee for all eligible travellers, further enhancing the country's appeal as a budget-friendly destination.

4. Encouraging Bilateral Tourism
   Rana expressed optimism that other countries will reciprocate this gesture, simplifying travel for Pakistani citizens and fostering global cultural exchange.

A Landmark Step for Tourism Growth

Speaking about the development, Aftab Ur Rehman Rana described the move as a "landmark step" in Pakistan's journey toward becoming a global tourist hotspot. “This simplified visa application process and visa-free entry will greatly help boost foreign tourism in Pakistan,” he said.

The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader goals to increase tourism revenue, showcase its diverse cultural heritage, and open up its breathtaking landscapes—ranging from the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range to the serene beaches of the Makran Coast.

How to Apply for the Free Visa

Travellers interested in visiting Pakistan can check their eligibility and apply for the Visa Prior to Arrival through Pakistan's official visa portal. With a hassle-free application process and no associated costs, it’s now easier than ever to plan your journey to this beautiful country.

Why Now is the Best Time to Visit Pakistan

With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, Pakistan has always been a hidden gem for global travellers. This new visa policy opens the doors to explore iconic destinations like:

• Hunza Valley – Known for its stunning natural beauty and warm community.
• Lahore – A hub of history, architecture, and vibrant street food.
• Karimabad – Home to the majestic Baltit and Altit forts.
• Swat Valley – Often called the “Switzerland of the East.”
• Makran Coastal Highway – Offering breathtaking coastal views.

Whether you're an adventurer, history buff, or cultural enthusiast, Pakistan’s simplified visa regime ensures that your next unforgettable journey is just a few clicks away.

Plan your visit to Pakistan today and experience its unparalleled beauty and hospitality firsthand. Check the list of eligible countries and apply for your free visa:

- Albania  

- Algeria  

- Andorra  

- Angola  

- Argentina  

- Australia  

- Austria  

- Azerbaijan  

- Bahrain *  

- Bangladesh  

- Belarus  

- Belgium  

- Benin  

- Bhutan  

- Bosnia and Herzegovina  

- Brazil  

- Brunei  

- Bulgaria  

- Cambodia  

- Cameron  

- Canada  

- Chile  

- China  

- Columbia  

- Comoros  

- Cote De Ivoire (Ivory Coast)  

- Croatia  

- Czech Republic  

- Democratic Republic of Congo  

- Denmark  

- Djibouti  

- Ecuador  

- Egypt  

- Estonia  

- Ethiopia  

- Finland  

- France  

- Gambia  

- Georgia  

- Germany  

- Ghana  

- Greece  

- Guatemala  

- Guinea  

- Guinea-Bissau  

- Honduras  

- Hungary  

- Iceland  

- Indonesia  

- Iran  

- Iraq  

- Ireland  

- Italy  

- Japan  

- Jordan  

- Kazakhstan  

- Kenya  

- Korea, Republic  

- Kosovo  

- Kuwait *  

- Kyrgyz Republic  

- Latvia  

- Lebanon  

- Liechtenstein  

- Lithuania  

- Luxembourg  

- Macedonia  

- Madagascar  

- Malawi  

- Malaysia  

- Maldives  

- Malta  

- Mauritania  

- Mauritius  

- Mexico  

- Moldova  

- Montenegro  

- Morocco  

- Mozambique  

- Myanmar  

- Nepal  

- Netherlands  

- New Zealand  

- Nigeria  

- Norway  

- Oman *  

- Panama  

- Paraguay  

- Peru  

- Philippines  

- Poland  

- Portugal  

- Qatar *  

- Romania  

- Russia  

- Rwanda  

- San Marino  

- Saudi Arabia *  

- Senegal  

- Sierra Leone  

- Singapore  

- Slovakia  

- Slovenia  

- South Africa  

- South Sudan  

- Spain  

- Sri Lanka  

- Sweden  

- Switzerland  

- Seychelles  

- Tajikistan  

- Tanzania  

- Thailand  

- Togo  

- Tunisia  

- Turkiye  

- Turkmenistan  

- Uganda  

- Ukraine  

- United Arab Emirates *  

- United Kingdom  

- United States of America  

- Uzbekistan  

- Vietnam  

- Zambia  

- Zimbabwe  

* visa-free

Source: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/list-of-countries-for-visa-prior-to-arrival/