Pakistan Visa from Dubai: Visit & Tourist Guide 2026
How do I get a Pakistan visa from Dubai?
Most nationalities living in Dubai can apply for a Pakistan e-Visa online through the official Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS) portal at visa.nadra.gov.pk. The e-Visa costs USD 20 to USD 75 depending on nationality and visa type, is processed within 7 to 10 working days, and allows stays of up to 30 or 90 days. Pakistani nationals do not need a visa to enter Pakistan. Indian passport holders face a more complex application process through the Pakistan High Commission.
Key Takeaway
- Most nationalities living in Dubai can apply for a Pakistan e-Visa online through the official Pakistan Online Visa Syst...
- e-Visa Processing: 7-10 working days
- e-Visa Fee: USD 20-75
- Stay Duration: 30-90 days
- Pakistani Nationals: No visa required
Pakistan is a top travel destination for millions of UAE residents — whether you are visiting family, exploring the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-daro, trekking in the Karakoram mountains, or attending a wedding in Lahore. With over 1.6 million Pakistanis living in the UAE and a large community of other nationalities who visit Pakistan regularly, the demand for Pakistan visa guidance from Dubai is consistently high.
The good news is that Pakistan has significantly modernised its visa system. The Pakistan e-Visa introduced in 2019 allows eligible nationalities to apply entirely online and receive their visa within 7 to 10 working days without visiting any consulate. Pakistani nationals living in Dubai and holding valid Pakistani passports do not need a visa to enter Pakistan. However, other nationalities — including Indian, British, American, Filipino, and many others — do need a visa.
This comprehensive guide covers everything UAE residents need to know about obtaining a Pakistan visa from Dubai in 2026, including who needs a visa, the e-Visa system, visit and tourist visa options, document requirements, fees, processing times, and expert tips from OraVisa to ensure a smooth approval.
Who Needs a Visa to Visit Pakistan from Dubai?
Whether you need a Pakistan visa depends entirely on your passport nationality, not your UAE residency status. Pakistan maintains different visa arrangements with different countries, ranging from visa-free entry to e-Visa eligibility to full consular applications.
Pakistan Visa Requirements by Nationality for UAE Residents
Overview of visa requirements for common nationalities living in Dubai
| Nationality | Visa Required? | Application Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistani | No | Visa-free entry | Pakistani nationals enter on their Pakistani passport |
| Indian | Yes | Pakistan High Commission | Complex process — see dedicated guide |
| British | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
| American | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
| Filipino | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
| Bangladeshi | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
| Sri Lankan | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
| Nepali | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
| UAE National | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application available |
| Egyptian | Yes | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) | Online application, 7-10 working days |
Pakistani
- Visa Required?
- No
- Application Route
- Visa-free entry
- Notes
- Pakistani nationals enter on their Pakistani passport
Indian
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan High Commission
- Notes
- Complex process — see dedicated guide
British
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
American
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
Filipino
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
Bangladeshi
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
Sri Lankan
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
Nepali
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
UAE National
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application available
Egyptian
- Visa Required?
- Yes
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
- Notes
- Online application, 7-10 working days
Visa requirements can change. Verify current requirements at the Pakistan High Commission in Abu Dhabi or the Pakistan Consulate General in Dubai before applying.
Key Points on Who Needs a Pakistan Visa
- Pakistani passport holders living in Dubai do NOT need a visa to enter Pakistan — use your Pakistani passport
- All other nationalities living in the UAE generally need a Pakistan visa, usually via the e-Visa system
- Indian passport holders require a more complex visa process through the Pakistan High Commission
- Visa-free entry is available to a small number of nationalities — check the POVS portal for your specific nationality
Pakistan Visa Types: Which Visa Do You Need?
Pakistan offers several visa categories for UAE residents travelling to Pakistan. The right type depends on your purpose of visit, nationality, and how long you plan to stay. Below are the most relevant visa categories for travellers from Dubai.
Pakistan Tourist Visa
The Pakistan tourist visa is for leisure travel, sightseeing, and exploration of Pakistan's diverse landscapes — from the historic Lahore Fort to the glaciers of Gilgit-Baltistan. Tourist visas are available as e-Visas through the POVS portal for eligible nationalities. Most nationalities receive a single-entry tourist visa valid for 30 days, though multiple-entry options are also available.
Pakistan Visit Visa (Family Visit)
The Pakistan visit visa is for those travelling to visit family or friends in Pakistan. This is one of the most commonly applied-for visa types by non-Pakistani UAE residents who have spouses, children, or extended family in Pakistan. Visit visas are processed through the e-Visa system for eligible nationalities and may offer stays of up to 90 days.
Pakistan Business Visa
For UAE residents travelling to Pakistan for meetings, trade, investment, or professional purposes, the business visa is the appropriate category. Business visas often allow multiple entries and longer validity periods, making them suitable for frequent business travellers.
Pakistan Conference / Conference Visa
Professionals attending conferences, seminars, academic events, or cultural programmes in Pakistan can apply for a conference visa. This category requires an invitation letter from the organising institution in Pakistan.
Pakistan Visa Types at a Glance
| Visa Type | Purpose | Typical Stay | Application Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Leisure, sightseeing | 30 days (single entry) | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) |
| Visit Visa | Family visit, friends | Up to 90 days | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) |
| Business Visa | Business meetings, trade | 30-90 days, multiple entry | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) |
| Conference Visa | Conferences, academic events | Duration of event | Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) + invitation |
| Journalist Visa | Media, journalism work | Subject to approval | Pakistan High Commission |
| Work Visa | Employment in Pakistan | Duration of employment | Pakistan High Commission |
Tourist Visa
- Purpose
- Leisure, sightseeing
- Typical Stay
- 30 days (single entry)
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
Visit Visa
- Purpose
- Family visit, friends
- Typical Stay
- Up to 90 days
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
Business Visa
- Purpose
- Business meetings, trade
- Typical Stay
- 30-90 days, multiple entry
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS)
Conference Visa
- Purpose
- Conferences, academic events
- Typical Stay
- Duration of event
- Application Route
- Pakistan e-Visa (POVS) + invitation
Journalist Visa
- Purpose
- Media, journalism work
- Typical Stay
- Subject to approval
- Application Route
- Pakistan High Commission
Work Visa
- Purpose
- Employment in Pakistan
- Typical Stay
- Duration of employment
- Application Route
- Pakistan High Commission
For the purposes of this guide, we focus on tourist, visit, and business visas available through the Pakistan e-Visa system.
Pakistan e-Visa: The Fastest Route for Most UAE Residents
The Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS) is the official government platform for applying for a Pakistan e-Visa. Launched in 2019 and available at visa.nadra.gov.pk, the POVS allows eligible nationalities to apply for tourist, visit, and business visas entirely online without visiting any embassy or consulate. For most non-Pakistani UAE residents, the e-Visa is the fastest and most convenient option.
The Pakistan e-Visa process is straightforward: create an account on the POVS portal, complete the online application form, upload your supporting documents, pay the visa fee online, and submit. Once processed, your approved e-Visa is sent to your registered email address. You present this e-Visa document alongside your passport when you arrive at a Pakistani port of entry.
e-Visa Eligibility Key Points
- Over 175 nationalities are eligible for the Pakistan e-Visa through the POVS portal
- The e-Visa is processed entirely online — no consulate appointment or physical document submission required
- Processing takes approximately 7 to 10 working days for most applications
- Indian passport holders are NOT eligible for the standard e-Visa process — separate rules apply
- Pakistani nationals do not need any visa — they enter on their Pakistani passport
Pakistan Visa Requirements from Dubai
The documents required for a Pakistan visa from Dubai vary depending on the visa type and your nationality. Below is the standard document checklist for the Pakistan e-Visa applicable to most UAE residents.
- 1Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your intended date of travel to Pakistan and at least one blank page
- 2Recent digital passport-sized photograph — clear, white background, taken within the last 6 months (minimum 300 DPI, JPEG format)
- 3Valid UAE residence visa — photocopy or digital copy as proof of legal UAE residency
- 4Emirates ID — front and back scan
- 5Travel itinerary or flight booking showing your planned travel dates to and from Pakistan
- 6Confirmed hotel booking or accommodation proof, OR a formal invitation letter from your host in Pakistan (for visit visas)
- 7Bank statement for the last 3 months demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay
- 8For visit visas: family relationship documents such as marriage certificate or birth certificate if visiting close family members
- 9For business visas: invitation letter from a Pakistani company or organisation on official letterhead
Document Preparation Tips from OraVisa
- All documents must be scanned and uploaded in the format specified by the POVS portal — typically JPEG or PDF
- Your photograph must meet Pakistan's biometric standards: white background, face clearly visible, no glasses, taken within 6 months
- Bank statements should show consistent income and a balance sufficient to cover your travel expenses in Pakistan
- Invitation letters for visit visas should include the host's full name, Pakistani ID number (CNIC), address, and contact details
How to Apply for a Pakistan Visa from Dubai: Step by Step
Applying for a Pakistan e-Visa from Dubai involves creating an account on the official POVS portal and completing an online application. Follow these steps carefully to avoid common mistakes that delay processing.
- 1Visit the official Pakistan Online Visa System portal at visa.nadra.gov.pk. Do not use unofficial third-party websites that may charge excessive fees.
- 2Create a new account using a valid email address. You will use this account to track your application status and receive your approved e-Visa.
- 3Log in and click "Apply Online." Select your visa category: Tourist, Visit, Business, or other relevant type.
- 4Complete the online application form carefully. Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport — full name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, and place of birth.
- 5Upload your digital photograph, passport scan, UAE residence visa copy, Emirates ID, and all other required supporting documents in the formats specified.
- 6Review your application thoroughly on the summary screen. Any errors or inconsistencies between the application and your uploaded documents can cause rejection or delays.
- 7Pay the visa fee online using your credit or debit card. The fee varies by nationality and visa type — confirm the exact fee on the POVS portal before payment.
- 8Submit your application and note your application reference number for tracking purposes.
- 9Monitor your application status through your POVS account. Processing typically takes 7 to 10 working days.
- 10Once approved, download and print your Pakistan e-Visa. Carry it with your passport when travelling.
Sources
- Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS) — NADRA— Verified February 2026
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Enter your name exactly as printed on your passport — including all middle names
- Upload photographs that are clear, recent, and meet the biometric specifications
- Do not submit your application until all documents are complete — incomplete applications cause delays
- Keep your POVS login credentials safe — you will need them to check status and download your approved visa
Pakistan Visa Fees from Dubai (2026)
Pakistan e-Visa fees are set by NADRA and vary based on your nationality and the visa type you are applying for. Below is an overview of current fee ranges for the most common nationalities applying from Dubai.
Pakistan e-Visa Fees by Nationality (2026)
| Nationality | Tourist/Visit Visa | Business Visa | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| British | USD 75 | USD 75 | Single entry |
| American | USD 75 | USD 75 | Single entry |
| Filipino | USD 20 | USD 20 | Single entry |
| Bangladeshi | USD 20 | USD 20 | Single entry |
| Sri Lankan | USD 20 | USD 20 | Single entry |
| UAE National | USD 20 | USD 20 | Single entry |
| Egyptian | USD 20 | USD 20 | Single entry |
| Canadian | USD 75 | USD 75 | Single entry |
| Australian | USD 75 | USD 75 | Single entry |
British
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 75
- Business Visa
- USD 75
- Notes
- Single entry
American
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 75
- Business Visa
- USD 75
- Notes
- Single entry
Filipino
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 20
- Business Visa
- USD 20
- Notes
- Single entry
Bangladeshi
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 20
- Business Visa
- USD 20
- Notes
- Single entry
Sri Lankan
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 20
- Business Visa
- USD 20
- Notes
- Single entry
UAE National
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 20
- Business Visa
- USD 20
- Notes
- Single entry
Egyptian
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 20
- Business Visa
- USD 20
- Notes
- Single entry
Canadian
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 75
- Business Visa
- USD 75
- Notes
- Single entry
Australian
- Tourist/Visit Visa
- USD 75
- Business Visa
- USD 75
- Notes
- Single entry
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Always verify the exact fee on the POVS portal at the time of application. Fees are non-refundable upon rejection.
Pakistan Visa Processing Time from Dubai
The standard processing time for a Pakistan e-Visa is 7 to 10 working days from the date of application submission. During peak periods such as Eid holidays, summer break, and around major events in Pakistan, processing can extend to 15 working days or longer.
Pakistan e-Visa Processing Times from Dubai
| Season / Period | Standard Processing | Peak Processing | OraVisa Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-peak (Oct-Mar) | 7-10 working days | 10-12 working days | Apply 2-3 weeks before travel |
| Peak (Apr-Sep) | 10-12 working days | 12-15 working days | Apply 3-4 weeks before travel |
| Eid / Public Holidays | 12-15 working days | Up to 20 working days | Apply 4-5 weeks before travel |
Off-peak (Oct-Mar)
- Standard Processing
- 7-10 working days
- Peak Processing
- 10-12 working days
- OraVisa Recommendation
- Apply 2-3 weeks before travel
Peak (Apr-Sep)
- Standard Processing
- 10-12 working days
- Peak Processing
- 12-15 working days
- OraVisa Recommendation
- Apply 3-4 weeks before travel
Eid / Public Holidays
- Standard Processing
- 12-15 working days
- Peak Processing
- Up to 20 working days
- OraVisa Recommendation
- Apply 4-5 weeks before travel
Processing times are calculated in Pakistan government working days (Monday to Friday, excluding Pakistani public holidays). There is currently no official urgent or express processing option for the Pakistan e-Visa.
Key Takeaways
- Always apply well in advance — there is no express or urgent processing option for Pakistan e-Visas
- Processing time begins from the date your application is formally accepted — not the date you create your account
- If you have a family emergency or urgent travel need, contact OraVisa who can advise on alternative options
- Book refundable flights and hotels until your Pakistan visa is confirmed
Pakistan Visa for Different Nationalities in Dubai
The Pakistan visa process differs significantly by nationality. Here is a quick overview of what applicants from the most common nationalities in Dubai need to know.
Pakistani Nationals in Dubai
Pakistani nationals living in Dubai do not need a visa to travel to Pakistan. You travel on your Pakistani passport. If your Pakistani passport has expired, you will need to renew it through the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai before travel. NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) holders should carry both their NICOP and Pakistani passport when travelling.
Indian Passport Holders in Dubai
Indian passport holders face a more complex process when applying for a Pakistan visa. The standard e-Visa system is generally not available to Indian nationals due to the political relationship between India and Pakistan. Indian nationals in Dubai must apply through the Pakistan High Commission, and approvals are subject to additional security and diplomatic considerations. Processing times are significantly longer, and approvals are not guaranteed.
British and Western Passport Holders in Dubai
British, American, Canadian, Australian, and most European passport holders can apply for the Pakistan e-Visa through the POVS portal. These nationalities typically pay USD 75 for a tourist or visit visa and receive approval within 7 to 10 working days. Multiple-entry visas with longer validity periods may be available for business purposes.
Filipino, Bangladeshi, and South Asian Nationals
Filipino, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, and Nepali passport holders are eligible for the Pakistan e-Visa. Fees for these nationalities are lower at USD 20 per application. The process and timelines are the same as for other e-Visa eligible nationalities.
Why Apply for Your Pakistan Visa Through OraVisa?
The Pakistan e-Visa process, while fully online, involves several steps where errors can cause delays or rejections. Document formatting requirements, photograph specifications, and form accuracy all matter. OraVisa provides end-to-end support to ensure your Pakistan visa application is correct from the start.
- Free eligibility check — we confirm your nationality and visa category eligibility before you spend time on the application
- Document preparation — we review all your documents against POVS requirements and flag any issues before submission
- Application form support — we verify your personal details and help avoid the most common errors that cause delays
- Status tracking — we monitor your application through the POVS portal and notify you of any updates or requests from Pakistan immigration
- Rejection assistance — if your application is rejected, we analyse the reasons and advise on next steps
- Emergency visa guidance — if you have an urgent travel need, we advise on available options and escalation routes
Need Help with Your Pakistan Visa Application?
OraVisa handles Pakistan visa applications for UAE residents of all nationalities. Free consultation, expert document review, and application support from our experienced team.
Get Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Do Pakistani nationals in Dubai need a visa to travel to Pakistan?
No. Pakistani nationals living in Dubai do not need a visa to enter Pakistan. They travel on their Pakistani passport. If their Pakistani passport has expired, it must be renewed through the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai before travel.
Which nationalities can apply for a Pakistan e-Visa from Dubai?
Over 175 nationalities are eligible for the Pakistan e-Visa through the official POVS portal at visa.nadra.gov.pk. This includes British, American, Filipino, Bangladeshi, Canadian, Australian, UAE nationals, and most other non-South Asian nationalities. Indian nationals are subject to different rules and must apply through the Pakistan High Commission.
How long does a Pakistan visa take from Dubai?
The standard Pakistan e-Visa processing time is 7 to 10 working days from the date of application submission. During peak periods such as Eid, summer holidays, and Pakistani public holidays, processing can take up to 15 to 20 working days. There is no official express or urgent processing option.
How much does a Pakistan visa cost from Dubai?
Pakistan e-Visa fees vary by nationality. British, American, Canadian, and Australian passport holders pay USD 75. Filipino, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, and many Asian nationalities pay USD 20. UAE nationals pay USD 20. Fees are non-refundable and must be paid online through the POVS portal.
Can I get a Pakistan visa on arrival from Dubai?
Pakistan does not offer a standard visa on arrival at Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad airports for most nationalities. All visa arrangements must be made in advance through the Pakistan e-Visa system or the Pakistan High Commission. Arriving without a pre-approved visa will result in denial of entry.
How long can I stay in Pakistan on a tourist visa from Dubai?
A standard Pakistan tourist e-Visa allows a stay of up to 30 days per entry. Visit visas (family visit) may allow stays of up to 90 days. Multiple-entry visas with longer validity are available for business purposes. Always check the exact validity and stay duration on your approved e-Visa before travelling.
Can Indian passport holders get a Pakistan visa from Dubai?
The standard Pakistan e-Visa is generally not available to Indian passport holders. Indian nationals must apply through the Pakistan High Commission in Abu Dhabi, and approvals are subject to additional security screening and diplomatic considerations. Processing is significantly slower, and approvals are not guaranteed. Contact OraVisa for specific guidance on this complex application.
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Written by
Ahmed Al Rashid
Senior Visa Consultant
Senior Visa Consultant at OraVisa with 12+ years of visa consultancy experience. Has guided thousands of UAE residents through successful visa applications for 100+ countries.
Expert reviewed by Ahmed Al Rashid
Senior Visa Consultant
Last updated: · 12+ years of visa consultancy experience
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